Level 1 Certificate in Carpentry & Joinery (CG)

Stoke on Trent College has some of the most comprehensive and up to date facilities in the country. Learning takes place in a friendly and relaxed environment and all staff have an excellent knowledge of the industry gained through many years of experience. If you want to study on your own you can use one of the Learning Resources Centres or one of the special study workshops in English, Mathematics and Information Technology. The workshops are large and spacious and are well equipped to set you off on your career in wood trades. It will be necessary for students to undertake some research on an individual basis to help support the learning of the underpinning knowledge aspect of the course.

This course is the starting point for people who hope to have a career in carpentry and joinery. It’s about preparing people to meet the needs of employers and preparing them to work in the industry. The course consists of practical and theoretical elements, and both parts of the course need to be successfully completed to achieve this qualification. Employers will expect good attendance, good behaviour and good communication skills enabling you to interact with clients, work safely, using initiative as well as having carpentry and joinery skills. As a College we will be reinforcing the values expected in industry to give students the skills to be successful in work and life. Throughout the course the students will be assessed on their practical skills and their knowledge of the subject. To achieve this qualification you will have to successfully complete all units within the course including Knowledge Tests and a Practical Synoptic Profile. Students will also complete Maths and English as part of this course; this aspect of the qualification may not be directly linked to the trade but will improve their wider education. Each student will also be encouraged to take part in enrichment activities.

Students are frequently assessed both in the practical environment and in the classroom. There are a number of theoretical unit end tests, various practical models and a final practical assessment. Online support is also provided through the college VLE portal, Canvas.

2 GCSEs grade E-G, Entry Level 3, or another relevant Entry Level qualification. You will have a pre-induction interview/ assessment to make sure this is the right level for you.

As part of the course the college promotes an open environment which encourages support from parents and guardians. Expert tutors are readily available to answer any questions relating to the course and you are encouraged to speak to them if you have any questions. This course will give you an excellent foundation if you wish to progress onto the Level 2 qualification.

On successful completion of the Level 1 Introductory Award in Carpentry & Joinery you could be given the opportunity to progress onto the Level 2 Diploma. If you gain employment within the industry you could become an Apprentice, studying the Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard in Carpentry and Joinery. The skills you have gained on the Level Introductory Award will benefit you if you choose the Apprenticeship route.