At 43, Sam Normoyle is no stranger to the world of construction. Raised in a family where scaffolding was more than just a job, it was tradition, Sam grew up watching his dad and uncles run their own scaffolding business. “From being a kid, I used to go out with them on jobs during the holidays,” he recalls. “So, I sort of fell into it naturally.” 

Though he did well in creative subjects at school, Sam left formal education early and spent the next 17 years working as a scaffolder. His experience spans everything from groundworks and plastering support to loft conversions and domestic builds. “I’ve done a bit of everything really: big sites, small companies, you name it.” 

Two years ago, a leg ulcer forced Sam to step away from physically demanding work. With finances under pressure and a desire to get back into construction, he saw the course as an opportunity to reskill and requalify. “I just fancied doing something a bit different,” he said. “Still in construction, but I’m open to new things.” 

Now eyeing opportunities in civils and machinery, Sam is preparing to progress onto dump truck training and other plant-based qualifications. “It’s all about moving towards better pay and more options,” he says. 

Despite years of experience, Sam admitted he was a bit out of touch when he joined the course. “My last CSCS card ran out years ago, and a lot’s changed. But I’ve done alright, I passed.” 

He credits the success of the group to the trainer, Shaun. “He’s a good teacher, gets the knowledge across well. I’d say 80% of the class passed both parts the first time, even the ones with no experience. That says a lot about his approach.” 

For Sam, this course is more than a refresher, it’s a chance to rebuild momentum after a difficult period while honouring a lifelong connection to construction.