Somerset College

Who is this course for?

Carpenters and Joiners make and install the wooden fixtures and fittings found in domestic and commercial construction projects. These can include floorboards, kitchen and bathroom units, window frames and doors, roof trusses and wall partitions. Site Carpenters, as the title suggests, tend to work outside on site and Bench Joiners can be workshop based.

Description

The Level 2 Construction Diploma will help you to develop a wide range of skills including carrying out first and second fixing, manufacturing joinery products and using appropriate tools, dependent upon whether you choose to follow the site carpentry or bench joinery route.

To be a qualified tradesperson you will need to complete the NVQ Level 2 and 3 in your chosen trade. The NVQ is a work-orientated qualification which requires you to build a portfolio of evidence; therefore, you should be suitably employed in a related role.

If you are under 23 years and have relevant employment, you could follow theapprenticeship route - please see the appropriate leaflet for more information.

Dickies Workwear (UK) Ltd sponsors of staff workwear for this course.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching has an emphasis on 'learning by doing'. During the course you will study a range of units developing your knowledge and skills through practical and theory sessions.

Units include:

• Safe working practices
• Information, quantities and communicating with others
• Building methods and construction technology
• Carry out first fix and second fix (site carpentry)
• Produce setting out details and mark out for routine joinery products (bench joinery)
• Erect structural carcassing (site carpentry)
• Manufacture routine joinery products (bench joinery)

Achievement will be through the successfull completion of all units including an on-line exam. If you are under 19 years you will also work towards a key skill in Information Technology, Communication or Application of Number, all of which are important for progression within the Construction Industry.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities and progression:

• Construction Diploma Level 3
• NVQ Level 2 and 3 (Site Carpentry or Bench Joinery)
• Site Carpenter (employed or self employed)
• Bench Joiner (employed or self employed)
• Team Leader/Supervisor

Entry Requirements

You will be invited to interview with a member of the course team and will be required to undertake an initial assessment to determine your entry level.

Costs

Full fees do not apply to all, please enquire upon application.

An equipment list will be sent out prior to the course starting.  Basic equipment will include steel toe capped safety boots or shoes.  This course is subject to a vocational resource fee which is payable upon enrolment.  Occasionally you may be offered the opportunity to take part in an educational visit for which a contribution may be required.

Contact

For further guidance and advice contact the Careers team on 01823 366 331, or email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk