The Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA) is a new trade body launched to improve scaffolding training in the UK. It brings together several major training providers who want to offer a new route into the scaffolding industry.
This blog explains more about the STA, including why it was created and what it means for scaffolders and employers.
Key Takeaways
- The Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA) is a not-for-profit body formed by major UK training providers to improve scaffolding training.
- The STA was formed in response to proposed reforms to the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS).
- The STA aims to deliver training that is modular, practical and based on real work, not just classroom theory.
- The STA will provide training cards, although these are not yet accepted under the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS).
What Is the Scaffolding Training Alliance?
The Scaffolding Training Alliance (STA) is a new trade body established to improve scaffolding training in the UK.
The STA was formed in response to planned changes to the current industry standard, the Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme (CISRS).
The training providers who launched the STA hope it will offer a more practical, flexible and modern approach.
Why Was the STA Created?
The STA was established with the primary aim of making the scaffolding industry safer by raising training standards.
It’s being positioned as a direct alternative to the CISRS scheme, which has been the industry standard for over 60 years but is now set for reform.
Some training providers and industry professionals expressed concerns over the proposed changes, citing a lack of consultation and potential adverse impacts on smaller scaffolding firms.
The STA aims to provide a training route that is simpler, more accessible and better aligned with the practical realities of scaffolding work.
The Stated Aims of the STA
The STA has stated its mission as “maintaining and improving upon existing scaffolding and safety standards whilst enhancing the quality, consistency and accessibility of scaffolding training for the benefit of learners, their employers and the wider scaffolding industry.”
The alliance claims it will achieve this through collaboration and more practical training. “The formation of the alliance is a fantastic opportunity to bring together highly experienced scaffolding industry and training professionals to work collaboratively – supporting each other in pursuing the common interest of providing sustainable, effective training practices, in a safe environment, to meet the current and future needs of the scaffolding sector in the UK.”
The STA also highlighted its commitment to practical, hands-on training, noting: “We will be embracing technological progress in our delivery, where appropriate, but as we service a practical ‘hands-on’ trade, we will continue to focus on the safe selection and use of scaffolding and access equipment and the manual practice of erecting and dismantling scaffold structures safely and compliantly.”
What Makes STA Training Different?
The points below reflect the STA’s stated aims and how it positions its training approach.
1. Run by Training Providers
The training is controlled by the people who actually provide it. This means the courses are based on real site work and not just classroom theory.
2. Focus on Practical Skills
The STA wants to make sure scaffolders are job-ready. The training is hands-on and focused on the skills scaffolders use every day.
3. More Flexible
STA training is modular, so learners can build skills step-by-step. The STA will also recognise experienced workers’ existing skills, and won’t ask them to repeat training they’ve already completed.
What Could the STA Mean for Scaffolders?
The STA suggests that its approach offers:
- More practical training options
- Faster access to courses
- Opportunities for scaffolders to have their existing skills recognised
What Could the STA Mean for Employers?
According to the STA, the new training route will produce more job-ready scaffolders at a time when the industry is facing a skills shortage.
The STA also intends to involve employers in shaping how training is delivered, although what this means in practice isn’t clear yet.
Challenges for STA Recognition
Right now, STA cards are not part of the CSCS card scheme. This means STA-trained scaffolders may not be allowed onto certain sites, especially those operated by large contractors who follow Construction Leadership Council (CLC) guidelines.
However, the STA is working to get wider recognition. If enough companies and contractors support it, the STA card could become more widely accepted.
Scaffolding Awareness Training: Essential First Step in Scaffolding Safety
As new training models like the STA gain ground, one thing stays the same – every scaffolder needs a firm grasp of basic safety. No matter the training route, understanding scaffold types, common hazards and legal responsibilities is essential before stepping on site.
Our Scaffolding Awareness Course is designed to build that foundation. The course explores:
- Different types and components of scaffolding
- Site hazards
- Hierarchy of risk controls for scaffolding work
- Legal duties and responsibilities
- Importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Practical steps to ensure scaffolding safety
This awareness-level training prepares workers for safer site work and more advanced learning.
About the author(s)
Jonathan Goby
