Routes to Vocational Studies – Trades
Our Routes Multi-Trade course is designed for learners seeking practical skills across multiple trades, such as bricklaying, plastering, painting & decorating, and carpentry.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
The Routes Multi-Trade course is designed for learners seeking practical skills across multiple trades, such as bricklaying, plastering, painting & decorating, and carpentry. It suits those exploring construction careers who are aiming to gain hands-on experience, improve their employability, and progress to higher-level qualifications or apprenticeships in the building and maintenance sector.
Entry Requirements
- English and Maths at GCSE grade 1, equivalent, or below
- Attendance at transition events to ensure readiness and engagement
What will you learn?
You will learn practical skills in carpentry, plumbing, painting, and basic maintenance, alongside improving your English and maths. The course builds hands-on experience, problem-solving, and teamwork, preparing you for progression into construction careers, apprenticeships, or further vocational training.
How will you learn?
You will learn through hands-on practical workshops, supported by classroom sessions for theory and safety. Activities include real-world projects in bricklaying, carpentry, plastering, and painting, alongside English and maths lessons to build your functional skills. Group work, demonstrations, and personalised support ensure you develop confidence and employability skills.
What will you need to bring with you?
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): safety boots, high-visibility vest, gloves, and any other required items for practical tasks
- Stationery: pens, pencils, and a notebook
- Suitable clothing: comfortable, durable clothes for workshop activities
- Resources for your normal way of working: laptop, overlay, tablet, reading pen, or alternative methods bespoke to you
How will you be assessed?
- Practical tasks in bricklaying, carpentry, plastering, and painting to demonstrate hands-on skills
- Portfolio of evidence showcasing your progress and completed projects in Digital Skills, Personal Development, and Sustainability
- Functional Skills or GCSE exams in English and Maths, including final exams for GCSE if you are working towards them
Where next?
- Further study at DCG
- Level 1 or 2 Construction or Multi-Trade courses for more advanced skills
- Specialist trade qualifications (e.g. carpentry or plumbing)
- Apprenticeships in construction or property maintenance
- Employment in entry-level construction roles
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.
We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Course Information Last Updated On: December 12, 2025 7:27 am
