Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
Before they were household names, they were climbing scaffolds and donning hard hats. From world-renowned musicians and athletes to beloved actors and comedians, these famous faces got their start in the scaffolding trade.In construction, scaffolding often flies under the radar, despite being a crucial part of the job. Scaffolders are the hardworking, often unsung heroes who set the stage for buildings and infrastructure to take shape, working high above the ground to ensure the safety and progress of projects all over the world.What many people don’t know is that several famous figures once donned hard hats and boots, starting their careers as scaffolders before finding success elsewhere.At Scaffmag, we love to celebrate the grit and determination that defines scaffolders. Here, we highlight some amazing people who took their first steps up the ladder—literally—before reaching fame.
From Scaffolding to Stardom
Rod Stewart
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Anthony Joshua
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Paul Hogan
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Bob Hoskins
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Ricky Tomlinson
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Geoff Capes
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
DJ Carl Cox
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Micky Flanagan
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
Adrian Chiles
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Tom Davis
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
Gary Wilmot
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Richard Dunn
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
Final Thoughts
These stories remind us that everyone starts somewhere. Many of these celebrities took their first steps in the world of scaffolding, a job that gave them the resilience, strength, and determination to succeed. Whether it was sheer grit, natural talent, or a bit of both, these former scaffolders have gone on to leave their mark in their fields.At Scaffmag, we love celebrating these incredible transitions. Their stories serve as a reminder to scaffolders everywhere: no dream is too big, no matter where you start.This article was originally published in Issue 22 of the ScaffMag magazine.
A leading corporate psychologist is spearheading a campaign urging that mental health injuries caused by work-related incidents be given the same recognition and treatment as physical injuries.
Tina Catling, a Principal Practitioner for the Association for British Psychology and a Fellow of both the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Royal Society of Arts, is advocating for mental health injuries to be included under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR). This move, she argues, would provide legal recognition of the psychological impact many workers face.
“This would put mental health injuries on par with physical injuries, creating more psychological safety in the workplace,” Catling explained. “It would not only save companies thousands in absences and lost productivity; it would also save lives.”
As founder and director of Leeds-based consultancy ThinkOTB, Catling works with global leaders, coaching them on building teams that are psychologically safe and innovative. She has also co-authored two best-selling books on leadership and workplace culture.
Catling’s call comes as the economic cost of poor mental health becomes more apparent. A recent study by AXA UK revealed that poor mental health in the workplace cost the UK economy £102 billion in 2023. Issues like workplace bullying, stress, and harassment are common, leading to disengagement among staff, which can result in both mental and physical harm. Research by Engage for Success found that employees who are not engaged at work are 62% more likely to sustain a physical injury.
“This is a cause very close to my heart,” Catling said. “I work to create healthy, positive cultures both in my own business and in the organisations we advise. I see many senior leaders who are struggling with their mental health.”
She questions why mental health is still separated from physical health in many workplaces. “Our minds and bodies are connected,” she said. “Yet, when someone suffers a mental health injury due to work, there’s no legal obligation for employers to investigate or report it.”
Recognising and recording mental health injuries under RIDDOR would encourage employers to take preventive measures, such as conducting psychological safety risk assessments and addressing factors in the workplace that contribute to stress.
“If mental health injuries were included in RIDDOR reporting, we’d see an immediate shift in how employers handle issues like bullying, microaggressions, and unconscious bias,” Catling added.
While there are existing frameworks for mental health, such as the ISO 45003 standard for psychological health and safety at work, Catling argues that without legal requirements, there is little incentive for many companies to apply them. She suggests a simple first step would be allowing employees to record mental health injuries in workplace accident books, as they do with physical injuries.
The campaign is part of a broader push for change, with United Minds, part of Unite the Union, also campaigning for similar reforms.
“Psychiatric injuries happen at work and are going unreported,” Catling warned. “They’re not being investigated or dealt with in the same way as physical injuries, and that needs to change.”
The National Access & Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) and the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS) have launched the recruitment process for a new Head of Training and Education.
The move comes just months after CISRS Managing Director David Mosley’s sudden departure in July this year.
This new role is seen as a vital part of the organisation’s strategy to enhance scaffolding training, embrace digital transformation, and uphold high standards in the rapidly changing construction sector.
In an official announcement, NASC and CISRS revealed that the newly appointed Head of Training and Education will be instrumental in advancing the educational framework of scaffolding in the UK.
The successful candidate will be tasked with shaping the future of scaffolding training by enhancing qualifications and developing innovative training programmes, all while adapting to the digital age.
Leadership Shift at a Critical Time
The recruitment process follows David Mosley’s departure from CISRS in July this year. Mr Mosley played a pivotal role in expanding CISRS’s reach and reputation as the UK’s leading scaffolding and access training provider. His exit marked a significant shift for the organisation, with no clear successor announced at the time.
While the reasons for Mr. Mosley’s departure have not been disclosed, the leadership gap has prompted NASC and CISRS to refocus their efforts on reinforcing the industry’s training standards and preparing for future challenges.
NASC CEO, Clive Dickin
Clive Dickin, CEO of NASC, expressed optimism about the new role: “This strategic move underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in scaffolding and access. The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in driving forward our educational initiatives and leveraging digital advancements to expand CISRS’s reach and impact.”
Focusing on Digital Transformation
One of the new Head of Training and Education’s key responsibilities will be overseeing the digital transformation of CISRS. With the construction industry rapidly embracing new technologies, there is a growing need to modernise scaffolding training programmes to make them more accessible and responsive to the needs of a diverse workforce.
The new role will involve leading efforts to digitise CISRS’s offerings, ensuring scaffolders across the UK and beyond have access to high-quality, flexible training. By modernising the digital infrastructure and curriculum, NASC and CISRS hope to equip professionals with the skills needed to thrive in a globalised and increasingly technological construction environment.
Commitment to High Standards
NASC and CISRS are committed to maintaining the highest levels of safety and training in the scaffolding industry. The appointment of a new Head of Training and Education is a clear signal of their intent to continue leading the sector in professional development.
The new role will also involve collaboration with educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to ensure that training programmes remain in line with best practices and evolving industry standards. The focus on academic qualifications aims to provide scaffolders with cutting-edge certifications recognised across the industry, further solidifying the UK’s position as a global leader in scaffolding safety and training.
In their announcement, NASC and CISRS invited qualified candidates with a strong background in education, leadership, and digital transformation to apply for the position, which they describe as “transformative” for the scaffolding sector.
For more information on the role and application details, interested parties can visit NASC’s Job Page.
The Scaffolding Association is calling on employers and stakeholders in the scaffolding and construction industries to participate in the upcoming CITB Consensus Consultation. This important process will allow businesses to influence CITB’s levy proposals for 2025 to 2027, helping shape the sector’s future of training and skills development.The CITB levy is key in funding vital training programs for new and experienced workers, ensuring the industry has the skills it needs to thrive. As part of the consultation, businesses will be asked to share their views on whether the proposed levy rates are fair and if CITB’s work is delivering value to the industry.Recognising the importance of this moment, the Scaffolding Association is encouraging employers of all sizes to take part. With challenges like skills shortages, new technologies, and changing safety regulations, it’s critical that the levy reflects the modern needs of the construction sector.Robert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding AssociationRobert Candy, Chief Executive of the Scaffolding Association, highlighted the significance of the consultation: “This is a rare chance for scaffolding and construction businesses to directly impact the future of skills training. By getting involved, employers can make sure their needs are met and that the levy continues to support our industry. I strongly urge all businesses, large or small, to have their say.”The consultation kicks off on September 26, 2024, and runs until October 24, 2024. Employers are encouraged to visit the CITB website to take part and ensure their voices are heard.By engaging in the process, the scaffolding industry can help create a better-trained, safer workforce, securing its future growth.
Ranjit Singh Dale, founder and chairman of SCP Group, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the University of Wolverhampton for his contributions to business and his efforts to improve the lives of people in the city.
Over the last 25 years, Dale has provided numerous job opportunities through SCP Group and played an active role in supporting his community.During the Covid-19 pandemic, Dale helped raise more than £25,000 to provide vital safety equipment for the NHS. This fundraising effort enabled the distribution of 1,600 work overalls and 2,000 hand sanitisers and dispensers to frontline workers.Reflecting on the honour, Dale said, “I feel very proud, especially being born and bred in Wolverhampton, and coming to Wolverhampton University to receive these honours is a massive thing. It’s a huge personal achievement, especially for my family, who are all here in the city.”The University of Wolverhampton presents Honorary Fellowships to individuals who have made significant contributions in their field. Dale’s entrepreneurial journey with SCP Group, which includes several successful brands like Scaffolding Products Online and Safelinx, played a key role in his recognition. His charity work, including his role as chairman of Punjab United Football Club and raising funds for local causes, has further solidified his positive impact on the community.Reflecting on his experiences, Dale added, “What we have in England is a massive opportunity. If you want it, you can get it. You’ve just got to be strong and determined to reach your goals.”Dale’s Honorary Fellowship serves as recognition not only for his business achievements but also for his ongoing commitment to improving lives in Wolverhampton.
The NASC (National Access and Scaffolding Confederation) has announced the highly anticipated shortlist for the prestigious ScaffEx24 Scaffolding Excellence Awards.
The awards, which will be presented at the ScaffEx24 Ball and Gala Dinner, which will be held at the Belfast International Conference Centre on Friday, 29 November 2024, aim to celebrate innovation, excellence, and outstanding contributions across the scaffolding and access industry.This year’s nominees include individuals and companies that have made significant strides in areas such as safety, design, service, and project execution. The awards span several categories and recognise both seasoned professionals and the next generation of talent in the industry.
Apprentice of the Year
The shortlist for Apprentice of the Year highlights the next generation of skilled scaffolders, with nominees including:
Albie Cooper, Benchmark Scaffolding Ltd
Harrison Mapley, Star Scaffolding Ltd
James Joseph Aicken, K2 Scaffolding (NI) LLP
Lacey Maclean, Everlast Scaffolding Ltd
Scaffold Design of the Year
Companies have also been recognised for their excellence in design, including:
Buckley Design Solutions for their work at Blackburn College
Lyndon SGB for the New Register House project
Scaffold Erection Services for HM Prison Birmingham
SRK Scaffolding for their work on an industrial storage tank
Product of the Year
Innovation continues to drive the industry forward, with nominees in the Product of the Year category such as:
GKR Scaffolding Ltd’s Soterdevice
Layher Ltd’s FW System
PERI Ltd’s PERI UP Cladding
Service of the Year
Services that have transformed project management and training are also recognised, including:
Footprint WFM Ltd’s Interactive Project Tracking
Safety & Access Ltd’s Scaffold Training Programme
Costain/Skanska’s Scaffold Request App, developed for SCS Railways
Lifetime Achievement
Honouring individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry, the Lifetime Achievement Award nominees are:
Lee Rowswell
Tom Gent
Alwyn Richards
Ray Johnson
Project of the Year
In recognition of outstanding projects across varying scales, the shortlist for Project of the Year is divided into four categories:Small:
Advanced NI Scaffolding Ltd – Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast
Ingleford Scaffolding Ltd – St Mary’s Lighthouse, Whitley Bay
Shield Services Group – Cathedral Park, Bristol
Malvern Scaffolding – Worcester Cathedral
Medium:
Chris Sedgeman Scaffolding Ltd – Market House, Penzance
Everlast Scaffolding Ltd – City Exchange, Leeds
Inner City Scaffolding Ltd – Parkside Court, Chelmsford
Scaffolding Access Ltd – Former Somerfield Store, Newhaven
Large:
Lyndon SGB – New Register House, Edinburgh
SCA Group Ltd – Centenary Quays, Southampton
SRK Scaffolding Ltd – Inovyn Runcorn Power Station
The winners will be announced at the ScaffEx24 Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony, marking the culmination of ScaffEx24 in November. This prestigious event will bring together the scaffolding industry’s best and brightest to celebrate their achievements.A NASC spokesperson said: “These awards not only showcase the incredible talent in our sector but also highlight the ongoing commitment to safety, innovation, and quality. We congratulate all of the nominees and look forward to revealing the winners at ScaffEx24.”
In an exciting development for young people in the North East, a new initiative is opening doors for school leavers to enter the scaffolding industry, significantly boosting apprenticeships and local employment.
W@H Solutions, with support from Procure Plus and the Newcastle United Football Foundation, is leading this effort to offer school leavers the chance to gain hands-on experience and potentially secure apprenticeships through Northern Regeneration at the Construction Skills Village.
The innovative program offers participants a 5-day comprehensive training course, introducing them to the fundamentals of scaffolding. Afterwards, they embark on a 5-day work experience placement with a local scaffolding company. If both parties are satisfied with the fit, participants can enroll in an apprenticeship program, providing them with a direct pathway into the trade.
With over 80 young people already signed up, this initiative has gained significant interest. The Newcastle United Football Foundation’s promotion of the program has led to over 30 individuals, including a 47-year-old, signing up for apprenticeships. The diverse range of applicants underscores the program’s broad appeal, offering opportunities to both school leavers and older individuals.
Building a Skilled Workforce for the Future
Speaking about the initiative, a representative from W@H Solutions said, “We are excited to offer a pathway into scaffolding that is accessible to young people who may not have considered this trade before. By combining training with real-world experience and creating a structured apprenticeship route through Northern Regeneration, we are helping to close the gap between education and employment.”
The program’s unique structure allows companies to assess potential apprentices while giving participants a real taste of the working environment. Northern Regeneration ensures that those who proceed into apprenticeships receive high-quality, industry-standard training, setting them up for long-term success in the scaffolding industry.
This initiative is seen as a vital step toward securing the future of the scaffolding industry, while also offering young people in the North East a chance to embark on rewarding careers. With strong financial backing from Ofsted, the program is expected to have a lasting and positive impact on the region’s workforce.
Subcontractors across the UK’s scaffolding sector have seen a significant rise in earnings, reflecting the growing demand for skilled labour in key trades.
According to data from Hudson Contract, a leading payroll provider for the construction industry, scaffolding subcontractors enjoyed record weekly pay in August 2024, with earnings up 2 per cent to £975 on average.This increase places scaffolders alongside other key trades, such as insulation and bricklaying, which also experienced notable growth. Insulation workers saw the most substantial rise, with earnings surging by 7.3 per cent to £1,218 per week. Bricklayers followed closely, with a 4.6 per cent increase, bringing their average weekly earnings to £1,032.Ian Anfield, Managing Director of Hudson Contract, highlighted the ongoing demand for self-employed subcontractors, particularly those with specialist skills like scaffolding. He noted, “Our latest figures demonstrate the continued demand for the most highly skilled, safe, and productive tradespeople in construction. Scaffolders are increasingly essential to maintaining high safety standards on complex building projects, and their wages reflect their critical role.”The data is based on payments made on behalf of around 2,600 construction SMEs across England and Wales. Year-on-year, scaffolding earnings have risen by 1.6 per cent compared to August 2023, as the demand for skilled workers in the sector continues to grow, even amidst relatively flat housebuilding activity.Anfield cautioned that while there is increasing pressure to ramp up housebuilding, especially with government targets aiming for 300,000 new homes annually, the solution lies in maximising existing skills rather than simply increasing the number of tradespeople. “Construction is cyclical,” he said, “and companies will adapt and reorganise their resources to maximise the skills available to them on-site.”Scaffolding has been identified as one of the most critical trades for ensuring safety and efficiency in the construction sector. As the industry faces fluctuating demand, scaffolders are well-positioned to benefit from sustained wage growth as construction firms prioritise highly skilled labour over-rapid expansion of the workforce.Hudson Contract’s pay trends analysis offers one of the most accurate snapshots of subcontractor earnings across the UK, with data provided to the Bank of England to help inform economic policy and decisions regarding the construction workforce.With the scaffolding sector continuing to see strong wage growth, the outlook for skilled subcontractors remains positive amidst shifting economic conditions.
Rod Stewart, one of the best-selling music legends, known for tracks like Maggie May and Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?, wasn’t always on stage. Before his rock and roll days, Stewart worked as a scaffolder in London during the early ‘60s. No doubt, the grit and grind of scaffolding played a role in shaping his determined spirit, helping him rise to musical stardom.
Before becoming a two-time heavyweight boxing champ and an Olympic gold medallist, Anthony Joshua was a scaffolder and bricklayer. The hard graft of those early days helped build the work ethic and physical strength that later propelled him to the top of the boxing world.
Famous for his role as Mick “Crocodile” Dundee, Australian actor and comedian Paul Hogan once worked as a scaffolder and rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His no-nonsense, down-to-earth charm on screen was no doubt shaped by his time in scaffolding, which eventually helped him win over international audiences.
Beloved British actor Bob Hoskins, best known for Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mona Lisa, started out as a scaffolder. The resilience he built working in scaffolding likely helped him in the tough world of acting, where he became known for his incredible versatility and passion.
Before starring in Brookside and The Royle Family, Ricky Tomlinson spent time working as a scaffolder. His involvement in the 1972 national builders’ strike highlighted his fighting spirit, a trait that’s served him well both on and off screen.
Long before winning the World’s Strongest Man title—twice—Geoff Capes was a policeman and a scaffolder. His early days in scaffolding gave him the raw physical strength and mental fortitude that would later define his career as one of the strongest men on the planet.
Global DJ sensation Carl Cox started out as a scaffolder in South London when he was just 16. His experiences on the job helped build the discipline and work ethic that would carry him through the competitive world of electronic music, where he now headlines festivals from Ibiza to beyond.
Before becoming one of the UK’s top comedians, Micky Flanagan worked as a scaffolder. His background gives him a grounded, relatable style that’s resonated with audiences, making him one of the most beloved comedians in the country.
British TV and radio presenter Adrian Chiles, best known for shows like The One Show and Match of the Day 2, once worked as a scaffolder before moving into broadcasting. His down-to-earth charm is likely a result of those early days working on site.
Before his rise to fame as an actor and comedian in shows like Murder in Successville and King Gary, Tom Davis spent time as a scaffolder, bouncer, and market trader. These diverse experiences helped shape his unique, relatable humour and down-to-earth comedy style.
British entertainer Gary Wilmot, known for his singing, acting, and comedy, also started out as a scaffolder. His break came after appearing on the talent show New Faces, and his scaffolding roots helped him stay versatile in the world of entertainment.
Former British heavyweight boxer Richard Dunn, best known for his fight against Muhammad Ali, worked as a scaffolder while pursuing his boxing career. The toughness he developed on the job helped him push through the challenges of the ring and rise to become a memorable figure in British boxing.
The program’s unique structure allows companies to assess potential apprentices while giving participants a real taste of the working environment. Northern Regeneration ensures that those who proceed into apprenticeships receive high-quality, industry-standard training, setting them up for long-term success in the scaffolding industry.
This initiative is seen as a vital step toward securing the future of the scaffolding industry, while also offering young people in the North East a chance to embark on rewarding careers. With strong financial backing from Ofsted, the program is expected to have a lasting and positive impact on the region’s workforce. 
