Running your own business? Specialising in shop fitting? Working as a site manager?

Practical carpentry and joinery skills are in high demand. Wood is one of the key materials used in construction, and working with it can provide a rewarding and challenging career.

Carpenters and joiners prepare and put into place most of the wooden parts of buildings - from floorboards and roof trusses to expertly-crafted windows and doors.

Maths skills are essential to deal with angles and dimensions as well as good hand-eye co-ordination to work with the specialised woodworking tools. So if you are good with your head as well as your hands this course could be just what you need to start building a successful career in carpentry and joinery.

What will I learn?

As a joiner, you will learn how to read drawings, prepare material cutting lists, identify different types of timber, mark out and assemble joinery items such as doors and windows and use woodworking machinery. The carpenter/joiner work involves installing many of the items produced by the joiner plus structural items such as floor joists, roof trusses and stud walling.

What do I need?

Ability to pass assessment test.

How long is the course?

The 2 year course allows you to gain an NVQ Level 2. Completing the third year gives you the opportunity of attaining an NVQ Level 3.

How will I know how I am doing?

You will be required to gather evidence from your work activities to demonstrate that you have become competent in a range of skills. An assessor will also observe you in the workplace.

How will this help me in the future?

Once qualified you can continue to work in the industry, developing your practical skills and knowledge.

There are also a range of career opportunities you could follow including site management, estimating and surveying as well as specialising in shop fitting, exhibition work or form work. You could even work overseas or start your own business.

How do I find out more?

Read our Carpentry apprentice case study now.

For further information on Apprenticeships in Carpentry and Joinery call 0117 312 5020.

How to apply

You can use our application form to apply online and initial assessment testing will take place on a date to be arranged.