The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has set up a working group to examine the need for a non-chartered grade, after a survey of members indicated that they were enthusiastic about the idea.
The CIOB reviewed its grades five years ago, resulting in the closure of the sub-chartered association membership (ACIOB) and incorporated membership (ICIOB) grades.
But the CIOB’s associate director for education and standards Rosalind Thorpe explained in a blog post that since this closure, the CIOB has become involved in a number of apprenticeships in England, Wales, and Scotland, many of which are technical sub-degree routes into the industry for school leavers and those wishing to upskill from trades roles.
The UK government itself has also started moving towards funding technical level qualifications at levels 4 and 5, which have the potential to bring new talent into the industry.
Thorpe explained: “These are HNC (Higher National Certificates) or HNDs (Higher National Diplomas) and designed as an articulation from T-Levels and other vocational routes. Some of these candidates will progress to a degree top-up but a large number will remain in a technical role for a considerable amount of time and would value a professional qualification that recognises their skills and knowledge.
“Similarly, on an international front we also know that recognition of technical expertise at a non-chartered level including institutes offering such qualifications in, China, Hong Kong, India as well as the Middle East would be welcome.”
Polling of CIOB members revealed that the majority felt the idea of a non-chartered grade was attractive, while many students who took part described it as extremely attractive because it would provide a benefit to those studying towards the CIOB Level 4 Diploma in Construction Site Management and the CIOB Diploma in Building Control Surveying, which are at the sub-degree level.
Thorpe added: “For those who are already associate or incorporated members, they were not so interested. That did not surprise us because we know many either aspire to become fully chartered members or at a point in their career where they are no longer interested in professional body recognition. For our ACIOB and ICIOB members we are looking at various options that recognise their experience and commitment to the CIOB through their continued membership, but ensure standards are maintained by giving those who want it access to the professional review, rather than grandfathering them into chartered membership.”
The working group in the CIOB’s education, qualification, standards and practice board will now examine the idea further, while there was a discussion during the CIOB’s Members’ Forum, which has been held remotely, on how to develop a broader consultation across the CIOB membership to gain views from all areas of expertise.
