Frequently Asked Questions
- When does Open Doors take place?
- How do I book my site visit?
- Do I need to wear anything special?
- How do I create an account on the Open Doors website?
- What will happen during my site visit?
- How long will the site visit last?
- Can you tell me about access for visitors with disabilities?
- Can I attend more than one site?
- Can large groups attend?
- Why book a group visit?
- How do I book a group visit?
- Can children attend?
- Will the sites be safe?
- Can I walk around alone?
- What can construction offer me?
- Where can I find more information on a career in construction?
When does Open Doors take place?
The most recent Open Doors event took place from 13-18 March 2023. Details of next year’s event will be shared shortly.
How do I book my site visit?
When bookings open for Open Doors 2024, you will need to log in to your account to book one of the Open Doors visits. Your account will be created when you make your first booking. You can use the same account to book other visits.
You will also need to have the shoe and protective clothing sizes handy for the people in your group. These can be amended but please be accurate with your approximations.
Do I need to wear anything special?
We would recommend you wear sensible shoes and comfortable clothing as you will be walking around the site. It’s always a good idea to bring some waterproof clothing as well just in case! Health and safety clothing will be provided by the construction company hosting the site tour if required.
How do I create an account on the Open Doors website?
Your account will be created when you first book a visit to one of the Open Doors sites. You can then use the same account to book other visits.
What will happen during my site visit?
You will get the opportunity to see the project, office, or factory, and meet the people who work in the industry. And of course, if you have any specific requests or interests please mention them when booking and we’ll do our best to help and make them happen.
How long will the site visit last?
This will vary and an estimated duration can be found on the 'information page' of each site.
Can you tell me about access for visitors with disabilities?
This will depend on the site in question and each site will clearly outline its accessibility.
Can I attend more than one site?
Yes absolutely! Just remember you will need to book each one.
Can large groups attend?
Whilst we encourage groups of all sizes, some sites may be operating under restrictions that mean larger groups are not possible. Please check the individual site’s information page for further details and remember that the earlier you book, the easier it will be to accommodate you!
Why book a group visit?
Group visits are ideal for schools and colleges, as well as for job centres or other interested organisations who wish to bring multiple attendees. A group visit to an Open Doors site will allow you all to see what goes on behind the site hoardings and learn about the fantastic range of careers available in construction.
How do I book a group visit?
When making your booking, you can select the ‘Group Booking’ option and enter the details for each person who will be in your group, including their shoe and protective clothing sizes.
Can children attend?
Details on whether children can attend will be on each site's information page, as this may differ from site to site. Please note if a site does allow children to visit, all vulnerable individuals including under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult. If under 18, they must also have parental or legal guardian consent.
Will the sites be safe?
Each site taking part in Open Doors has taken all steps to make sure your site visit will be safe and enjoyable. To ensure your own safety you should follow any guidance given on site.
Can I walk around alone?
No, we're afraid not. You will have to stay with the group you are allocated at all times.
What can construction offer me?
The construction industry can offer people from all different ages and backgrounds an exciting career. There is so much more to the construction industry than just building, from design and engineering through project planning to the archaeological digs that take place. To find out more about the wide variety of construction careers, the qualifications you need and case studies on what it’s really like, visit the new construction careers website Go Construct
Where can I find more information on a career in construction?
If you’re interested in a career in construction more information on different roles, qualifications and a range of case studies can be found on the construction careers website Go Construct.
Build UK has also published a guide setting out the most common Routes of Entry into Construction for young people in England leaving school, including apprenticeships, traineeships, T Levels and degrees.
