Construction

Carpentry & Joinery (Wood Occupations) - Year 1 (September 2025 Start)

Start Date: 01/09/2025

Start Time: 09:00

End Date: 24/06/2026

End Time: 17:00

Day(s): Monday to Friday

Site: College Main Site

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Course Overview

Year 1 Wood Occupations is a full time programme designed for learners with no prior training in working with timber. Studying on this programme will develop a range of basic practical hand skills and theoretical knowledge.

Work Experience & Industry Placements

Learners will complete a range of industry related activities, ranging from specific site visits, guest speakers and toolbox talks, as well as 35hrs of work experience in industry.

Qualification Gained

L1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery

After The Course

On completion of this course, learners typically progress onto year 2 and study Bench Joinery or Site Carpentry. Some learners may progress into an apprenticeship in Site Carpentry, Bench Joinery, Furniture manufacture or Property Maintenance.

What Will I Learn

By undertaking this qualification you will learn the associated skills needed to perform all basic joints used in woodwork, whilst developing the essential hand skill for installing and maintain aspects of carpentry.

English And Maths

Learners who do not already hold a Maths and / or English qualification at grade 4 or above will study these subjects as part of their college qualification

Our Lecturers

David worked as an Architectural Joiner for 8 years and has now worked at the college for 11 years in the Carpentry and Joinery team. Over the summer period gets involved with Glastonbury and Boomtown festivals stage and set building.

Stephen has spent over 30 years in industry, starting as an apprentice in a large Shopfitting company, working as a Bench Joiner and Site Fixer, moving through his apprenticeship and working in that trade for 20 years. Stephen then moved into Boat outfitting with Princess Yachts in Plymouth and then a Coach fitting company who made furniture for Princess Yachts, before moving into teaching. Stephen has a wealth of knowledge that will benefit the next generation of trades persons

Teaching Learning and Assessment

Through activities in our industry specific practical work shops and dedicated theory sessions.

Tutorials

1 hour per week

Course Expenses

Learners will need to purchase their own PPE (Work trousers, boots, gloves high vis and safety spectacles). We also recommend learners purchase relevant tools as an investment, and a course textbook to support their studies. Learners who join us on new students day will be given a kit list to help them prepare for their course.

Throughout the course there will be trips and visits, for which a contribution may be required.

How Will I Be Assessed

Practical assessments and written tasks

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs at grade 3 (D - E) or above

Required Experience

None Required for this level of qualification. For learners who have achieved English and maths at grade 4 and have experience of working with timber, they may be offered the year 2 programme.