CSTT joins forces with IRPM and ARMA to provide first residential property management apprenticeship

The Chartered Surveyors Training Trust (CSTT) is working with the Institute of Residential Property Management (IRPM) and the Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA) to provide the first ever professional apprenticeship scheme for residential property management.

The scheme will be piloted within Greater London with a view to rolling it out nationwide at a later date. There will be a limited number of apprenticeships offered with a proposed start date in September. The pilot is exclusive to employers who are ARMA members. CSTT is inviting potential employers to register their interest before the end of June.

Christina Hirst, Chief Executive of the CSTT says: "Registering your interest is not a binding commitment but allows us to start a focused recruitment campaign."

The CSTT supports those who face a disadvantage to gaining employment as surveyors, by providing a route to qualification within the property and construction industry regardless of academic, social or financial circumstances.

For this pilot scheme, ARMA has promised a discount on suitable training courses with the rest of the cost being met by the CSTT. And the IRPM have generously agreed to waive their initial application fees, Part 1 exam cost, Part 1 revision workshop cost, provide additional support towards Part 1 study and give free Affiliate membership of the IRPM for two years.

As part of the apprenticeship scheme, employers are asked to commit to providing work experience relevant to the apprenticeship for a minimum term of two years as well as a basic salary for the apprentice.

Christina adds: "This scheme is a great example of how independent institutions and trade body's bodies can work together to help promote fair access and equal opportunities in the property and construction industry."