Decisions, decisions! If you’re in Year 9, it's probably time to pick your GCSE options and it can be difficult trying to work out what to opt for.
 
No matter what school you go to there are some subjects that you have to include in your options like maths, science and English – all of which will come in handy in construction. But what else should you pick? If you’re interested in one of the craft roles like bricklaying, shopfitting or roofing and tiling, choosing CDT or technology would be the best subjects to help you with the calculations, measurements and theory involved in these in-demand jobs. If the idea of being your own boss appeals, the craft roles are definitely something to consider.

If you're a budding builder and you don’t want to have to wait until you’re employed to learn about construction, the new Construction and the Built Environment GCSE may be for you. The GCSE is currently being piloted in 60 schools and is planned to be rolled out to all schools in 2007.

The GCSE has units including technology, building design, sustainability and health and safetly. It's been developed with people working in the industry, which means that your GCSE will hold a lot of weight with employers when it comes to getting your first job.

If you still can’t decide, it's worth remembering that construction is a huge employer, and there are career opportunities for everyone – if you’ve got the drive and ambition the construction industry will offer you lots of chances to progress, whatever qualifications you’ve got. Get down to the real nitty gritty – find out what qualifications you need to get the job you want.