Foundation in Carpentry and Joinery

If you have a keen interest in working with wood and want to start your journey toward a career in site carpentry or architectural joinery, this course is the perfect starting point.

Designed for school leavers or those looking to enter the construction industry, this course provides a solid foundation in both practical and theoretical skills. You’ll learn in industry-standard workshops, using professional tools and techniques, and gain valuable experience through realistic projects and work-related activities.

What sets this course apart is its focus on hands-on learning, employer engagement, and enrichment opportunities that help you build confidence and prepare for the world of work.

Maths and English

In order to support your main programme of study, future progression, and life skills, you will also continue to develop your skills in Maths and English.
This may involve working towards a Grade 4 or above at GCSE, or completing Functional Skills qualifications, depending on your current level.

This course is ideal for learners who are:

• Practical and hands-on
• Motivated to learn a trade
• Hardworking, reliable, and eager to progress

To join this course, you will need to meet the following entry criteria:

Academic Requirements

• A minimum of GCSE Grade 2 (or equivalent) in Mathematics
• A minimum of GCSE Grade 2 (or equivalent) in English

Interview and Selection

• You will be required to attend an interview with a member of the Construction team.
• This may include a short aptitude activity to assess your suitability for the course.

Desirable Attributes

• We are looking for applicants who are:
• Hardworking and committed to learning
• Punctual and reliable
• Willing to work as part of a team
• Motivated to develop practical skills and progress in the construction industry

Additional Considerations

• Previous work experience in a construction-related environment is beneficial but not essential.
• A genuine interest in the construction sector and a positive attitude towards learning are key to success on this course.

You will study a mix of core subjects, trade-specific skills, and personal development modules. These are designed to give you a strong foundation in construction and prepare you for further study or employment.

Core Subjects

These units are transferable across other construction courses once achieved:

• Health, Safety and Welfare in the Workplace
• Principles of Construction, Building and Communication

Trade-Specific Subjects (Carpentry and Joinery)

• Basic Carpentry and Joinery Skills
• Care, Maintenance and Use of Woodworking Hand Tools
• Safe Set-Up and Use of Woodworking Portable Power Tools

Maths and English

You will continue to study Maths and English as part of your programme.
This may involve working towards achieving a Grade 4 or higher at GCSE, or completing Functional Skills qualifications, depending on your current level.

Work Experience

You will be expected to complete a minimum number of work experience hours, giving you valuable insight into real-world construction environments.

Essential Employability Skills

These sessions are designed to help you develop the skills needed to succeed in the workplace — not just as an employee, but also as a potential self-employed professional.

Tutorial Support

You will meet regularly with your tutor to cover topics that support your personal and professional development.
You’ll also benefit from 1-to-1 sessions to help you achieve your full potential.

You will learn through a combination of the following methods:

• On-site learning: Most of your learning will take place at college, giving you access to industry-standard facilities and equipment.
• Classroom sessions: These will cover the theory and knowledge needed for your qualification.
• Practical workshops: Hands-on training in our fully equipped workshops will help you develop your trade skills.
• Online learning: There may be some online tasks or assignments, but these will be kept to a minimum.

We aim to deliver all programmes as advertised. However, we reserve the right to cancel or amend courses that do not recruit sufficient numbers to remain viable.

To ensure you’re fully prepared for your course, you will need to provide the following items:

• Basic stationery (pens, pencils, ruler, etc.)
• Notebook for taking class notes
• Padlock for securing your locker
• Safety footwear (steel toe-capped boots)
• Work trousers
• Safety glasses

Once enrolled, you will also be required to purchase a Derby College Group jumper and polo shirt, which form part of your standard workwear.

As you progress through the course, there is an expectation that you will purchase a basic tool kit. This is usually once you are settled into your studies and have a clearer understanding of the tools you’ll need.

Please note: Some costs may be subsidised by the College depending on your circumstances. Speak to your tutor or Student Services for more information.

You will be assessed through a combination of practical and written methods. These may include:

• Unit-based assessments: Observation of practical work and judgement against minimum standards.
• Written projects and exam questions: These assess your understanding of theoretical knowledge.
• Real trade projects: You may be required to complete real or simulated trade tasks, which will also be assessed.

Level 1 Qualification

• Assessment is primarily through practical observation and written tasks.
• You may also complete real-world projects as part of your assessment.

Progression to Level 2

• You will receive further training and be assessed on both:
  • Skills (practical ability)
  • Knowledge (theoretical understanding)
• You must pass both assessments to progress to Level 2.

Maths and English

• Functional Skills: Assessed through controlled assessments and mock exams.
• GCSE: Assessed through a final exam.

Assessment Format

Where applicable, exams may be online or multiple choice. Please check with your tutor for specific formats

Further Study

Upon successful completion of the Level 1 qualification, and provided you meet the progression criteria (including passing both skills and knowledge assessments), you will be eligible to progress to a Level 2 course in the same trade at Derby College.

If you secure an employer, you may also have the opportunity to progress onto a Level 2 Apprenticeship in your chosen trade.

Maths and English

You will continue to develop your skills in Maths and English as part of your study programme.
Depending on your grades, you may be required to continue working towards a Functional Skills qualification or GCSE in Maths and/or English.

Higher Education Opportunities

In the longer term, and depending on your chosen pathway, you could progress to Level 3 qualifications and eventually to Higher Education. Degree options may include subjects such as:

• Construction Management
• Civil Engineering
• Architecture
• Quantity Surveying
• Building Services Engineering

Career Opportunities

This course can lead to a range of entry-level roles in the construction and built environment sector, such as:

• Site Labourer
• Trainee trades person
• Apprentice trades person
• Property Maintenance Operative
• Groundworker

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk