Age 16-18
On successful completion of the Level 1 course you will progress onto either the Level 2 Site Carpentry or Level 2 Bench Joinery course. Alternatively you may wish to undertake an Apprenticeship programme.
Course Overview
Entry requirements
Three or more GCSEs at Grade 2 including:
- GCSE English Language and maths at Grade 2 (or equivalent)
- Successful completion of Entry 3, and appropriate recommendation report
Course information
This is a one-year full time course and it is designed for students with little or no previous experience or knowledge about carpentry or joinery, although in some cases you may have already completed a City and Guilds multi-trade course.
The aim of the course is to develop the basic employment skills, practical skills and knowledge required in order to become a competent and employable carpenter.
If you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 or above in English, you will study an additional English course. There are two online examinations that must be completed by students with practical assessments completed within a portfolio.
Key topics
- Principles of building (examination)
- Health and safety information (examination)
- Maintain and use hand tools
- Maintain and use portable power tools
- Produce woodwork joints
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How you are assessed
All online examination based units are externally assessed whilst practical units are internally assessed. You will build up a portfolio of evidence which will be internally assessed and verified by the centre and then externally verified by City &
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Why study at NCC?
- We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
- Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
- Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
- Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
- One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
- Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
- Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
- Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
- A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed
With regeneration projects and trade opportunities booming, New City College is the perfect place to gain the practical skills for a successful career in Construction and Skilled Trades, one of the UK’s fastest-growing industries.
Through employer partnerships, work placements and apprenticeship pathways, you’ll get real on-the-job experience in trades like engineering, carpentry, motor vehicle, bricklaying, plumbing and electrical installation.
We’re proud to be one of only 10 Construction Technical Excellence Colleges (CTECs) in the UK, receiving extra investment to deliver cutting-edge training where the industry needs it most. With links to major employers including Vinci, Kier, Mace and SWIFT Brickwork, you’ll leave with the skills, experience and confidence to succeed. And with employers often coming to NCC first to fill vacancies, our students get the inside track on new job opportunities.
Select your campus option to apply
Dates
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 02/07/2027
What Can This Course Lead To
Life At NCC
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Facilities for Students
At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.
Financial Support
There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.
