Jordan Hurry – NCC Instructor Access

At CITB National Construction College (NCC), we’re committed to developing the next generation of skilled professionals. Hear from Jordan Hurry, a former scaffolder turned instructor, about his journey from the tools to the classroom.

What did you do before you came to work at NCC?

I completed my apprenticeship at NCC England East after leaving school and then returned a couple of years later to get my Gold Card. I worked as a scaffolder for 13 years at local companies, on various projects such as house building, council greener homes, insulation, roofing and solar panels. I also worked on commercial and industrial projects for food manufacturers and large-scale factories.

Why did you want to down tools and become a lecturer?

When I was doing my apprenticeship at NCC, I always thought it would be great to teach one day. My mentors really set me up well to start my career in scaffolding.

There’s a perception that scaffolding is one of the easiest trades in construction and therefore requires the least skill or intelligence. But this couldn’t be further than the truth. Scaffolding is complex, it involves solving problems, keeping up to date with health and safety and the need to be technically minded, as well as working hard to keep up with such a physically demanding job.

So I wanted to change perceptions. I want to make a difference and prove to people that scaffolding is a great trade. Every day is different and comes with different challenges and even greater rewards!

Passing on my skills and impacting new learners through the college gives me great job satisfaction. When I realised there was no progression in still working on the tools, I was ready for the opportunity to come to NCC England East!

What training have you received since joining NCC as an instructor?

Since joining NCC just over a year ago I have completed my SMSTS, Emergency First Aid at Work, Level 3 Teaching and Education Training (on-site) Assessor qualification TAQA, and shadowing training for Part 1 and Part 2.

The instructor position allowed me to deliver training to apprentices and commercial training for CISRS cards. I also assess them accordingly. More recently, I have been promoted to lecturer and I’m now responsible for overseeing instructors, new materials, quality assurance, and modernising content for training. I will also be starting my Level 5 in Teaching and Education (off site).

What do you like most about your job?

Job satisfaction is key, and the teamwork is fantastic at NCC. There’s a great support network!

One thing I like is not having to come home dirty and tired as it was a hard manual job. It’s incredibly rewarding when the learner has that ‘penny drop’ moment, and it clicks with them.
It’s like taking pride in a job well done – but now, instead of working on-site with tubes and tools, I’m collaborating with learners to shape their futures.

For people reading your bio, what do you want them to know?

I had no hesitation in applying for this role. NCC actively encourages progression, and the benefits are great. The team loves new ideas and innovation, and with the investment plans for the college, it’s an exciting time to join. What have you got to lose? Go to one of the recruitment events for a chat to find out more.