An image of a student at Northumberland College Ashington Campus, measuring a plank of wood with a tape measure

Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery

School Leaver

Start Date:	Duration:	Level:	Study mode:	Course Location:	Course Type:
September	1 Year	Level 1	Full-Time	City Campus	Full-time Vocational	Apply	Enquire

What’s it all about?

Start building your future with our Level 1 Diploma in Carpentry and Joinery! This hands-on programme for students eager to learn the craft of woodworking. From mastering the basic joinery techniques to understanding the properties of different woods, our instructors guide you through the skills needed for a successful career in the construction and carpentry industry.
This course offers a blend of practical workshops and theoretical lessons, ensuring you gain the confidence to manipulate tools and materials safely and effectively. Whether you aspire to create bespoke furniture or contribute to large-scale construction projects, lays the groundwork for a rewarding and creative career path. Join us and transform your passion for woodworking into a professional skillset!

What do you need to apply for the course?

No formal entry requirements.

*Course costs

Study level	Cost	Additional fees
16-18	Free	There is a fee of £35.00 to cover the cost of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for use during practical sessions. The course may also involve you in personal finance expenditure as follows: - Purchase stationary - Purchase of consumable materials

How will you be assessed?

You will be taught via a variety of methods including:

- Classroom teaching
- Craft workshop activities
- Library and Learning Resource Centre work
- Information technology activities
- Tutorials
- Directed work with other students

Maths & English

Achieving a Grade 4 or above in GCSE Maths and English is important, but if you're not there yet, don’t worry! We provide supportive classes to help you meet these essential criteria. These subjects form the backbone of your educational toolkit, opening doors to further studies and exciting apprenticeships. Our sessions in Maths and English will equip you with the skills needed to thrive academically and professionally.

Placement

At Level 1, our courses are designed to lay a solid foundation without the requirement of a work placement, allowing you to focus fully on mastering the fundamentals of your chosen field. As you progress to Level 2 and Level 3, we encourage you to enhance your learning experience and boost your career prospects through targeted work placements. These opportunities are crafted to complement your studies and provide practical, hands-on experience in a real-world setting, preparing you to excel in a career you are passionate about.

Industry links

At Sunderland College our commitment to your future goes beyond the classroom. We are dedicated to providing you with real-world experiences and industry insights that will prepare you not just to enter, but to excel in your chosen field. Here’s how we connect you with the industry:

• Networking Events: Build your professional network early. Our placement and careers fairs are your chance to meet and impress potential employers. These events are designed to help you forge significant industry connections that can enhance your career prospects. Attend talks, engage in discussions, and explore apprenticeship opportunities with employers who are eager to meet fresh talent.
• Expert Insights: Stay ahead of the curve with talks from specialist speakers. These industry leaders share the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the field, giving you the inside track on what to expect and how to thrive.
• Skills Competitions: Showcase your abilities in our exciting skills competitions. Held throughout the academic year, these competitions are not just about winning – they are about learning, growing, and pushing your limits. They offer a fun, competitive environment to enhance what you learn in class and develop essential industry skills.

What’s next?

Upon completing this course, students can advance their skills with further education, such as a Level 2 in Site Carpentry, or to secure an apprenticeship. This course opens doors to careers in both residential and commercial construction, enabling you to craft everything from bespoke furniture to essential building frameworks. With these competencies, you’re not just building projects—you’re building your future in an industry that values precision and creativity.