I want to be a
Carpenter
Level 2
Site Carpentry, Apprenticeship
One of the great advantages of pursuing a career in construction is the potential for swift entry into the workforce. With an apprenticeship, you not only gain valuable experience but also learn, study, and earn money at the same time.
As a site carpenter, you will play a vital role in shaping the built environment, creating beautiful and functional structures. From framing and installing doors and windows to crafting bespoke furniture pieces, your craftsmanship will leave a lasting impact on construction projects.
At Weston College, we prioritise providing our students with the best possible preparation for their future employment. Our apprenticeships are led by experienced professionals who have an in-depth understanding of the industry and excellent connections with employers. You can trust that our courses offer specialised training and guidance, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. We focus not only on honing your practical carpentry skills but also on developing essential employability skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. This comprehensive approach ensures that you are well-equipped to thrive in the construction industry.
As a Weston College apprentice, you will have access to state-of-the-art training facilities at our South West Skills Campus. These facilities include well-equipped workshops, industry-standard tools and equipment, and specialised software packages. Additionally, you will benefit from a fast, free, and secure Wi-Fi connection, a well-resourced library with e-resources, and access to high-specification PCs and digital hardware. As a Weston College apprentice, you will join our Career Excellence Hub, which provides numerous career-boosting benefits and focuses on preparing you for the workplace. You will have unrivalled access to local employers and gain fantastic insights into the industry through work experience, site visits, and master classes. Our strong partnerships with renowned companies such as Wilmott Dixon, Bradfords, St. Modwen, Galliford Try, Balfour Beatty, Kier, Hydrock, and Real Group ensure that you establish valuable connections and receive the support and development you need to reach your career goals.
WHAT DOES THIS COURSE INVOLVE
Our Site Carpentry Apprenticeship programme offers the ideal pathway for aspiring carpenters looking to take the first step in their careers. Through our programme, you will learn the art of crafting and installing structural components, such as roofs, floors, and partitions. We understand the skills and qualities that employers seek, and we ensure that our apprenticeship programme incorporates them into the training. You will not only gain practical experience but also develop the professional skills demanded by employers, including diligence, decision-making, and time management.
You will attend College for one day a week to learn the theoretical side of your trade. You will learn about first and second fixing operations and erecting structural carcasses (site carpentry). We will also work with you to develop your English and maths skills to the level that most employers in the construction industry are looking for.
An apprentice will learn to:
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Identify and apply safe working practices by current legislation, health, safety, and welfare regulations, Approved Codes of Practice, company guidance, site-specific requirements, and taking account of changing circumstances.
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Plan and undertake work practices productively. * Identify and apply safe use, storage, and maintenance of hand tools, power tools, and equipment.
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Correctly interpret information from drawings and specifications in various types and formats. e.g., electronic devices, Computer-Aided Design (CAD).
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Estimate resource quantities to conduct work e.g., quantity of fixings, length of timber.
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Demonstrate a range of fundamental skills including measuring, marking out, fitting, cutting, splicing, mitering, scribing, horizontal and vertical levelling (including laser levelling), finishing, positioning, and securing.
ASSESSMENT METHOD
You will be assessed through practical tests, an assignment, a portfolio of work, and online multiple-choice tests.
The end-point assessment consists of two key elements. The knowledge assessment consists of 40 questions designed to assess your understanding of the specific knowledge and behavioural requirements, while the practical assessment is a skills test.
FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
Many of our apprentices are kept on by their employers at the end of their programme. You could choose to increase your skills with a Carpentry and Joinery Advanced Apprenticeship or Weston College’s Level 3 Site Carpentry Diploma. Upon completion, you are then eligible to apply for the Blue skilled worker CSCS card required to work on large construction projects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 9-2 with at least two at grade 4, or a qualifying Level 1 qualification. You will also need to be in relevant employment, but we can help you find this.
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
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