When Arnaldo attended a construction open day at CONEL College in North East London, he had no idea it would set the course for a promising career in scaffolding. “I met a SIMIAN Business Development Manager at the event and handed over my CV,” Arnaldo explains. “Because I lived locally, I was offered a free COTS (Construction Operatives Training Scheme) course at the London Academy for Sustainable Construction (LASC). That opportunity put me ahead of other candidates and opened the door to something bigger.”

Recognising Arnaldo’s potential, SIMIAN connected him with scaffolding specialists Lee Marley, who invited him on a site visit to explore what a real day in the industry looked like. “That site visit made it clear this was the right path for me,” he says. “It gave me insight into the role and reassured me this was a trade I could enjoy and grow in.”

Now well into his apprenticeship, Arnaldo is discovering just how much there is to learn. “I didn’t realise scaffolding was so technical. At first, I thought it would be easy but it’s actually both physically and mentally demanding,” he says. “There’s a lot of skill involved and I enjoy learning all of it.”

One of the things that has made the experience so positive is the level of support Arnaldo has received. “My team really looks out for me, not just in terms of work but personally too. They check in to see how I’m getting on, and that support makes a huge difference.”

Adapting to site life has also been part of the learning curve. “It’s a different vibe from the training centre – there’s banter and a bit of rough talk, but I’ve learned not to take things to heart. If your mindset is strong, you’ll be fine. Working on site is okay when they’re talking to you nicely, but you do have to adjust to the culture. The tutors at LASC are more formal and supportive, but both environments help you in different ways.”

With his sights firmly set on progression, Arnaldo is already thinking ahead. “I’d love to get my advanced scaffolding qualifications, become a Black Hat, and eventually teach apprentices myself. That’s the dream.” He’s also particularly keen to learn more about protection fans and loading bays as he continues to build his skills.

For others in Waltham Forest considering a career in construction, Arnaldo’s advice is simple: start early and take advantage of the resources available locally.

“SIMIAN’s LASC centre is right on your doorstep, and the team there will guide you every step of the way. Go in, talk to them, they’ll help you get started on the right programme. The earlier you start, the better it is for your body, and the sooner you can start earning good money.”

Looking back, Arnaldo knows he’s made the right choice.

“This is the best thing I’ve done in my life. I’ve had other jobs, but this is the only one I’ve truly enjoyed. I love that we’re building something real, something you can see. Plus, scaffolding is always in demand, especially with the current skills shortage. It’s a safe, stable trade and a career with a future.”

Interested in taking the first step into scaffolding? Learn more about our CISRS COTS course and start your journey today by clicking here.