Employer guidance document

Overview

The Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) offers an Approved Development Scheme (ADS) to support employers in developing their workforce towards professional recognition. This structured programme enables staff to progress toward CICES Technical member or Member status through a competency-based framework tailored to real-world roles.

Who is the ADS for?

• Graduate trainees entering the profession
• Early-career professionals
• Experienced practitioners seeking professional recognition

ADS is adaptable to accommodate varying levels of experience, usually supporting development over three years.

Key Scheme Roles

Principal Scheme Supervisor

• Oversees the delivery of the ADS within the organisation
• Acts as the main liaison with CICES

Supervisor
• Usually the line manager
• Conducts regular reviews and signs off competencies

Mentor

• Provides impartial, ongoing support and advice
• Assists with readiness for membership application and review interview

Administrator
• Maintains scheme documentation
• Coordinates communications with CICES and internal stakeholders

How the Scheme Works

1. Membership: Trainees register as Affiliate or Graduate Members of CICES.
2. Competency Development: Covers general, core and specialist areas aligned with the trainee’s role.
3. Reviews: Regular supervisor meetings and six-monthly mentor discussions support continual progress.
4. Documentation: Trainees maintain CPD records, experience logs, meeting notes and evidence of competence.

Benefits of the ADS

For Employers:

• Structured framework for staff development
• Promotes professional standards
• Supports employee retention and engagement
• Enhances reputation in the industry

For Trainees:

• Guided route to professional qualification
• Access to mentorship and structured reviews
• Exposure to a range of workplace learning experiences

 Support from CICES

• Competency templates and guidance materials
• Guidance from staff for onboarding and scheme support
• Promotional materials, including certificates and ADS logo use
• Annual scheme reviews and progress updates

Key Contacts:

• Dominic Lane, Development Manager – dominic.lane@cices.org
• Alessandra Grifi, Development Officer – alessandra.grifi@cices.org

For further information, visit www.cices.org