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This study programme is designed for 16 to 19 year olds (aged 19 to 24 for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan).

All courses take place on our Sixth Form Campus, therefore any applicants aged 25+ or over who do not have an Education, Health and Care Plan may be required to complete a DBS check as part of the conditional offer to West Suffolk College. The cost to the applicant for a DBS is £30.00 and the DBS check can be completed through the college.

Please visit our Adult EducationDegrees and Employer section for alternative courses.

About the course

This one year full time programme is aimed at people who wish to learn skills from a number of core trades within the construction industry. This course is also suitable for new students who are unsure what their preferred route for construction is and would like to try them all before committing to just one. Students who were unable to get on their preferred course are also welcome to apply.

 

Students will be thoroughly trained in the practical skills and learn the underpinning theory of five core trades (Brickwork, Carpentry and Joinery, Painting and Decorating, Plastering and Plumbing) and assignment work or end of unit tests assessed to meet industrial standards throughout the 36 week course.

Entry requirements

GCSE's at Grade 3 or above in English and Maths.

It is expected in the first instance that the applicant will have a genuine interest in the construction industry and each applicant will be required to attend an interview to ascertain his/her suitability for the course.

Qualifications

Progression to Construction

What you'll learn (core modules)

A majority of the programme will be 'hands on' and focussed on helping the students to develop their construction skills and character strengths. From the start, students will be expected to develop their essential life skills such as communication, numeracy and IT during mandatory GCSE/Functional Skills lessons (mainly for students who have not achieved a grade "4" or above in English and Mathematics at GCSE level). There will also be mandatory sessions to help improve their employability skills.

 

Course attendance will be three days a week.

 

The six core trades are: Brickwork, Carpentry, Tiling, Painting and Decorating, Plastering and Plumbing. There may also be opportunities to explore Electrical Installations.

 

Any student aged 16 to 19 who does not hold a GCSE A* to C (9 to 4 on the new grading structure) or equivalent qualifications in Maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.

Where will the course take me?

After successful completion of your course and following an interview, you may progress onto the Level 2 Diploma in Maintenance Operations or a Level 1 or 2 Diploma (not all trades available) in your chosen trade.

Will I need any materials or equipment?

Safety boots, TMC branded clothing/overalls/work trousers and stationary equipment for theory sessions.

Days & times

Starting September 2023


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If there is anything more you would like to know about this course, please message us here.

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