Carpentry and Joinery

Open For Applications: Yes
Who is it for?:

The occupation involves carrying out advanced skilled work, primarily using timber products, either on a construction site, or in a workshop, creating and installing building components. The advanced carpenter and joiner is able to undertake complex job tasks, requiring high levels of practical skills and knowledge, in addition to managing their own work and leading small teams.

The main differences between a level 2 site carpenter / architectural joiner, and a level 3 advanced site carpenter / architectural joiner are that the advanced carpenter / joiner has responsibility for managing their own and other people’s work, as well as being required to complete complex and non-standard work. Examples of complex tasks include curved products, irregular joints and bespoke work.

This is a core and options apprenticeship, with two pathways:

Pathway 1: An Advanced Site Carpenter will normally work on a building site, or in domestic and commercial premises, preparing and installing complex and often bespoke building components e.g. high quality doors, shaped linings, staircases with turns, complex wall and floor units, erecting bespoke structural carpentry (inclined roofs and joists) and erecting complex roof structures (e.g. inclined roofs with hips, valleys and dormers).

Pathway 2: An Advanced Architectural Joiner will normally be employed in a workshop, producing complex building components by setting out, marking out and manufacturing bespoke architectural products (e.g. doors, windows, staircases with turns and panelling/cladding). 

Entry Requirements:

In order to complete this carpentry and joinery Apprenticeship, you will be expected to complete an initial assessment in maths and English to ensure you are at a suitable level to work towards this qualification. To apply for this Apprenticeship, you must have obtained both maths and English at a Grade C (4) or above, prior to enrolment onto this course and completed the Level 2 standard in Carpentry and Joinery.

What does the course involve?:

For a comprehensive understanding of this carpentry and joinery programme and what it entails, please click here.

How is the course assessed?:

This carpentry and joinery Apprenticeship is taught at our London Road campus on a day release basis once a week. In addition, you will be visited at your workplace regularly by your assessor, to assess your practical skills and knowledge as well as review your progress with your employer.  You will be required to sit an End Point Assessment, towards the final stages of your programme, to ensure you have obtained the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to do your job effectively.

Additional Notes:

Typically, this Apprenticeship will take 18 months to complete.

What do I do next?:

To be an apprentice in either carpentry or joinery you will need an employer who can offer you work and release you for your training. Once you have an employer in place, you can apply online. If after reading this fact sheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Advice Events, ring the Apprenticeship Team on 01743 260400 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Open For Applications: Yes
Who is it for?:

The occupation involves carrying out skilled work, primarily using timber products, either on a construction site, or in a workshop, creating and installing building components. This is a core and options apprenticeship, with two pathways: 

Pathway 1: A Site Carpenter will normally work on a building site, or in domestic and commercial premises, preparing and fixing building components, from the initial erection of a new building, through to the installation of all necessary fixtures and fittings, as well as a range of repair and maintenance activities.

Pathway 2: An Architectural Joiner will normally be employed in a workshop producing timber-based building components and other architectural products, such as doors, windows, units and staircases, which are then transported to construction sites to be installed by site carpenters.

Entry Requirements:

In order to complete this carpentry or joinery Apprenticeship, you will be expected to complete an initial assessment in maths and English to ensure you are at a suitable level to work towards this qualification. Some employers will specify their own minimum qualification entry requirements, which would be detailed within their Apprenticeship vacancy.

What does the course involve?:

For a comprehensive understanding of this carpentry or joinery programme and what it entails, please click here.

As part of the carpentry and joinery Apprenticeship Standard, if you do not hold GCSE maths and English at grades 9-4, you will also be required to study towards your functional skills Level 2.

How is the course assessed?:

This Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship is taught at our London Road campus on a day release basis once a week. If you need to complete your functional skills, then this will be covered at college in a block week release. In addition, you will be visited at your workplace regularly by your assessor, to assess your practical skills and knowledge as well as review your progress with your employer.  You will be required to sit an End Point Assessment, towards the final stages of your programme, to ensure you have obtained the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to do your job effectively.

Additional Notes:

Typically, this carpentry and joinery Apprenticeship will take 2 years to complete.

What do I do next?:

To be an apprentice in either carpentry or joinery you will need an employer who can offer you work and release you for your training. Once you have an employer in place, you can apply online. If after reading this fact sheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop in to one of our Advice Events, ring the Apprenticeship Team on 01743 260400 or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Open For Applications: No
Who is it for?:

Having successfully developed basic hand tool skills through completing the Level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery this programme is designed to give you an understanding of Bench Joinery as a specialism within these trades. These specialist skills will improve your employability prospects with a Bench Joinery company and you will be working on the same course subjects as those on an Apprenticeship programme. 

Entry Requirements:

Successful completion of Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery plus GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 or above.

What does the course involve?:

This course builds upon the skills and knowledge acquired through successful completion of the Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery course.

Our experienced teachers will help you to further develop and practise the skills required for employment and/or career progression in bench joinery. Employment opportunities include manufacturing bespoke joinery items such as doors, windows and stairs; and may lead to opportunities in site carpentry.

This one-year course takes place in the classrooms and workshops at our London Road Campus.

The course covers the following skills:

  • The set-up and operation of a circular saw
  • The production of setting-out details for bench joinery products
  • How to mark out from setting out details for bench joinery products
  • The manufacture bench joinery products
  • The principles of building construction, information, and communication

Students will be required to attend Maths and English (GCSE or Functional Skills Level 2) depending on prior achievements and initial assessments.  

How is the course assessed?:

Each unit will be assessed by end of unit multiple-choice tests supported with practical assessments throughout the year, together with an online multiple-choice knowledge test.

How much does it cost?:

All materials are provided as well as tools, equipment and PPE. We recommend that you provide your own steel-capped footwear for use in the workshop.

If you are aged 19 or over, fees for tuition, exams and materials may be payable on enrolment.

Additional Notes:

Upon successful completion of this course, you may have the option to progress to the T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction (T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning For Construction: Surveying and Design for Construction (scg.ac.uk)), or an apprenticeship in architectural bench joinery (www.scg.ac.uk/apprenticeships).

Further Information:

Students have the opportunity of entering local, national, and international competitions including the UK SkillBuild competition.

You will be expected to undertake industry-related work placements - usually two days a week.

Open For Applications: Yes
Who is it for?:

This course is designed to provide a technical foundation on which to build a career in the construction industry. You will be provided with specific knowledge and technical skills in site carpentry and bench joinery. The course is ideal for students who aspire to work as a carpenter, bench joiner, cabinet maker, shop fitter, kitchen fitter or other associated trades. 

Entry Requirements:

GCSE Maths and English at grade 3 or above. 

What does the course involve?:

At SCG we offer a range of courses that will prepare you for a career in construction and carpentry - one of the traditional trades both in the UK and around the world. As a site carpenter or bench joiner, you will need to follow technical drawings and plans, have an eye for detail and have good Maths skills for measuring and calculating angles. Our City & Guilds qualifications are widely recognised within the construction industry.

This course has been specifically designed to prepare you to enter the industry in your chosen craft.

The units of the course cover:

  • Maintenance and use of carpentry and joinery hand tools
  • Preparation and use of carpentry and joinery portable power tools
  • The production of woodworking joints
  • The principles of construction, information, and communication
  • Health, safety, and welfare in construction

You must also achieve the required level of Maths and English (GCSE or Functional Skills), depending on prior achievements and initial assessments.

How is the course assessed?:

Each unit will be assessed by end-of-unit multiple-choice tests supported with practical assessments throughout the year, together with two online multiple-choice knowledge tests.

How much does it cost?:

You will be expected to provide your own overalls, safety shoes and contribute to the cost of any additional enrichment activities. 

Additional Notes:

The course allows you to progress to the Level 2 Technical Certificate in Site Carpentry or the Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery, or an apprenticeship.

Further Information:

Our expert teachers and excellent facilities will aid your progression. They will assist you in developing practical skills and specialising in a specific area of study.

Other details:

You must also achieve the required level of Maths and English (GCSE or Functional Skills), depending on prior achievements and initial assessments.

Open For Applications: Yes
Who is it for?:

Having successfully developed basic hand tool skills through completing the Level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery this programme is designed to give you an understanding of Site Carpentry as a specialism within these trades. These specialist skills will improve your employability prospects with a Site Carpentry company and you will be working on the same course subjects as those on an Apprenticeship programme. 

Entry Requirements:

Successful completion of Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery plus GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 or above.

What does the course involve?:

You will learn and develop the skills required for employment and career progression in Site Carpentry. We will cover topics related to quantities, communications and construction technology, and offer training in all areas of site carpentry in our purpose-built facility at the London Road Campus. This one-year course will build on the skills and techniques learnt at Level 1.

  • Carry out first fix flooring and roofing
  • Carry out first fix frames, partitions, and stairs
  • Carry out second fixing operations
  • Carry out carpentry maintenance
  • Set up and operate a circular saw
  • The principles of construction, information, and communication

 

Students will be required to attend Maths and English (GCSE or Functional Skills Level 2) depending on prior achievements and initial assessments.  

How is the course assessed?:

Assessments consist of an online theory exam at the end of May and a synoptic practical assignment in June.

How much does it cost?:

All materials are provided as well as tools, equipment and PPE. We recommend that you provide your own steel-capped footwear for use in the workshop.

Additional Notes:

Upon successful completion of this course, you may have the option to progress to the T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction (T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning For Construction: Surveying and Design for Construction (scg.ac.uk)), or an apprenticeship in Site Carpentry (www.scg.ac.uk/apprenticeships).

Further Information:

Students have the opportunity of entering local, national, and international competitions including the UK SkillBuild competition

You will be expected to partake in work placements, usually two days a week and industry-related.

Open For Applications: Yes
Entry Requirements:

No formal qualifications are required, however a keen interest in Carpentry & Joinery and an eye for detail would be advantageous.

What does the course involve?:

The course will be workshop-based with tools and materials provided. Training on power tools and workshop equipment will be given as necessary. You will work on a project of your choice learning the skills required to create wooden frames, shelves, doors or units or items for the home such as toy boxes, jewellery boxes or bird boxes all with expert guidance. More ambitious projects can be discussed with the course tutor at the start of the course.

Additional Notes:

Please equip yourself with suitable clothing including sturdy footwear, a pencil and a measuring tape.

Open For Applications: No
Who is it for?:

Having successfully developed specific Site Carpentry skills through completing the Level 2 Diploma in Site Carpentry this programme is designed to give you an understanding of advanced knowledge and techniques of the trade. These specialist skills will improve your employability prospects with a specialist site carpentry company and you will be working on the same course subjects as those on an Advanced Apprenticeship programme. Progress to the HNC/HTQ in Construction Management for England or an Advanced Apprenticeship in Site Carpentry.

Entry Requirements:

Successful completion of the Level 2 Diploma in Site Carpentry. You will also need to have a successful interview with the tutor.

What does the course involve?:

Learners will learn to develop and practise the skills required for employment and/or career progression in advanced site carpentry. The course covers the following knowledge and skills:

  • Principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work
  • Set-up and use of fixed and transportable machinery
  • Carrying out first fix roofing and stairs
  • Carrying out second fixing double doors and mouldings.

Skills and knowledge will cover advanced site carpentry and will include raking moulds, cut roofs, roofs with hipped rafters and fitting stairs with turns.

How is the course assessed?:

The qualification is unit based with each unit having a theoretical multiple-choice end test. Vocational units have additional practical assessments.

How much does it cost?:

The Free Courses for Jobs offer gives eligible adults the chance to access their first Level 3 qualification for free (if the course is eligible for funding). In addition, any adult in England who is earning under the National Living Wage or is unemployed, may also be able to access these qualifications for free, regardless of their prior qualification level.

Open For Applications: No
Who is it for?:

Having successfully developed basic hand tool skills through completing the Level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery this programme is designed to give you an understanding of Site Carpentry as a specialism within these trades. These specialist skills will improve your employability prospects with a Site Carpentry company and you will be working on the same course subjects as those on an Apprenticeship programme. Progression routes include the Level 3 City & Guilds Diploma in Site Carpentry, the T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, or an Apprenticeship.

Entry Requirements:

Successful completion of Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery plus GCSE Maths & English at grade 4 or above. You will also need to have a successful interview with the tutor.

 

What does the course involve?:

You will learn to develop and practise the skills required for employment and/or career progression in Site Carpentry. The course covers the following skills:

  • Principles of building construction, information and communication
  • Carrying out first fix flooring and roofing
  • Carrying out first fix frames, partitions and stairs
  • Carrying out second fix operations
  • Carrying out carpentry maintenance
  • Set-up and operation of a circular saw.

 

Skills and knowledge will cover all of the carpentry practices undertaken in industry and will include: door hanging, ironmongery, fitting and fixing of mouldings; kitchen fitting and boxing-in services; installing joists, erecting roof structures and associated details.

How is the course assessed?:

Your work is continually assessed throughout the course with each unit having a practical and theoretical assessment task. The Principles of Construction is assessed via an on-line exam.

How much does it cost?:

All materials are provided as well as tools, equipment and PPE. We recommend that you provide your own steel-capped footwear for use in the workshop. You will be expected to contribute to the cost of any additional enrichment activities.

Additional Notes:

Some students may be required to attend Maths and English (GCSE or Functional Skills Level 2) depending on prior achievements and initial assessments.  

If you are aged 19 or over fees for tuition, exams and materials may be payable on enrolment.

 

Open For Applications: No
Who is it for?:

This course is designed to provide a technical foundation on which to build a career in the construction industry. You will be provided with specific knowledge and technical skills in site carpentry and bench joinery. The course is ideal for students who aspire to work as a carpenter, bench joiner, cabinet maker, shop fitter, kitchen fitter or other associated trades. Progression from the course would be onto a Level 2 Diploma in Site Carpentry/Bench Joinery or onto an Apprenticeship in Site Carpentry/Bench Joinery with a suitable employer.

Entry Requirements:

You will need to complete an Initial Assessment prior to acceptance. You must be working at Level 1 or above in maths and English, demonstrate commitment and motivation and be willing to study theoretical and practical components of the course. Students will be required to take the CITB assessment paper to evaluate their ability to read and understand construction drawings.

What does the course involve?:

Vocational units (all units are mandatory):

  • Principles of Building Construction, Information and Communication
  • Produce basic woodworking joints
  • Maintain and use carpentry and joinery hand tools
  • Prepare and use carpentry and joinery portable power tools
  • Health, Safety and Welfare in Construction.
How is the course assessed?:

Your work is continually assessed throughout the course with each unit having a practical and theoretical assessment task. The Principles of Construction and Health and Safety unit are assessed via an on-line exam.

How much does it cost?:

You will be expected to provide your own overalls, safety shoes and contribute to the cost of any additional enrichment activities.

Additional Notes:

All students must attend Maths and English and depending on prior achievements and initial assessments will either take GCSE or Functional Skills.

Open For Applications: No
Who is it for?:

Having successfully developed specific Bench Joinery skills through completing the Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery, this programme is designed to give you an understanding of advanced knowledge and techniques of the trade. These specialist skills will improve your employability prospects with a bespoke bench joinery company and you will be working on the same course subjects as those on an Advanced Apprenticeship programme. Completion of this course can enable progression to the HNC/HTQ in Construction Management for England or an Advanced Apprenticeship in Bench Joinery.

Entry Requirements:

Successful completion of the Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery. You will also need to have a successful interview with the tutor.

What does the course involve?:

You will learn to develop and practise the skills required for employment and/or career progression in Bench Joinery. The course covers the following knowledge and skills:

  • Principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work
  • Set-up and use of fixed and transportable machinery
  • Manufacture of shaped doors and frames
  • Manufacture of stairs with turns.
How is the course assessed?:

Your work is continually assessed throughout the course with each unit having a practical and theoretical assessment task. The principles of organising, planning and pricing construction work is assessed via an on-line exam.

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