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School Leaver (Full-Time)

Carpentry & Joinery

Course overview

Carpentry and joinery are at the heart of the construction industry. From fitting doors to building furniture, you’ll gain hands-on skills that are always in demand. Train with expert tutors and industry-standard tools to start a career that’s practical, creative and full of opportunities.

When you apply to study Carpentry and Joinery at The Sheffield College, you will be invited in to speak with our team to find out which of the qualifications listed below is the right fit for you. We will ask you about your previous experience and your career ambitions, as well as taking the qualifications you already have into consideration before offering you a place.

The Level 1 Joinery programme is designed to prepare people to enter the construction industry as joiners and carpenters. This programme will give you a thorough grounding in the practical aspects of joinery, enabling you the opportunity to progress to a Trade Diploma upon successful completion.

The Level 2 progression study programme is designed to give you the industry recognised skills as either a site carpenter or bench joiner. This qualification will further develop your skills in the practical aspects of carpentry and joinery, enabling you to progress into employment upon successful completion of the course.

About the course

Introduction to Carpentry and Joinery Level 1

  • 4 GCSEs grades A*- E / grade 2 or above, including English Language and Maths

Carpentry and Joinery Level 2

  • A Level 1 qualification in Carpentry and Joinery 4 GCSEs grade A*- E / grade 2 or above (or acceptable alternatives), including English Language

Introduction to Carpentry and Joinery Level 1

  • Coursework Exams

Carpentry and Joinery Level 2 Practical synoptic assessment

  • Completion of practical handbook

  • Online exams

After completing Level 1 or 2, you can progress to advanced courses such as a our T Level Surveying and Design, higher technical qualification (HTQ) or HNC/HND. From there, you could go on to a degree-level Apprenticeship or university study in construction, building design, or site management. These courses also provide a direct pathway into employment as an Apprentice or trainee in the trade.

Interview process

For this course, the interview process includes an information session followed by a 1:1 chat with a tutor. During the information session, you will receive important details about the course structure and expectations, along with a chance to ask any questions. This is crucial to ensure you understand the course fully and how it aligns with your goals.

Will the course suit me?

This course is perfect if you: Enjoy hands-on, practical learning Like problem-solving and paying attention to detail Want a career that mixes creativity, technical skill, and real-world results Are motivated by seeing the projects you’ve built come to life If you want an active career where no two days are the same, carpentry and joinery could be the perfect choice.

Staff and facilities

At The Sheffield College, you will learn from highly qualified staff with a wealth of experience in both academic and health and construction sectors. The college offers excellent facilities to support your learning, including fully equipped workshops, interactive learning environments, and access to industry-standard resources.

Course enrichment

You will have the opportunity to engage in various enrichment activities such as industry visits, guest speaker sessions, workshops, and community-based projects. You can also pursue additional qualifications such as first aid or manual handling certificates.

For this course you will be required to buy PPE college work wear. You will need to bring your own overalls and safety boots for workshop sessions as a minimum requirement. All other safety equipment will be provided on an as and when needed basis.

Student case study

“My highlights from this year, are probably the teaching staff and how well they bring you out of your shell.”

Jacob Osborne - Building Technologies Student of the Year 2025

Jacob Osborne
16,704
Employed in 2026 across Sheffield
16,448
Graduate jobs predicted in Sheffield, during 2027
£36,213
Average salary
Click here to apply now

Key Information

Course Code
P00735
Subject Area
Construction and Building Technologies
Campus
City Campus