Carpentry & Joinery Apprenticeship Study Mode: Part Time   |    Course Level: Level 2

Where will this course lead?

This qualification is the industry benchmark for becoming a qualified Carpenter or Joiner. Whether you prefer the fast-paced environment of a construction site (Site Carpentry) or the precision of a workshop (Architectural Joinery), this course prepares you for a lifelong career in a high-demand trade.

What will I study?

The course covers the core skills required to work with timber-based products, including:

• Tool Mastery: Learning the safe and effective use of hand tools, power tools, and woodworking machinery.
• Structural Work: Installing floor joists, roofing timbers, and partition walls.
• Finishing (Fixing): Fitting doors, window frames, skirting boards, and kitchen units.
• Blueprints and Specifications: Reading technical drawings and calculating material requirements.
• Health and Safety: Mastering workplace safety and environmental protection on-site.

How will this course be delivered?

This is a work-based apprenticeship, meaning it blends real work with formal training.  Most of your learning happens on the job at your employer's premises, backed up with off-the job training at college.

• On-the-Job (Work-Based) Learning: Most of your training will be practical, hands-on experience in your workplace, working alongside experienced tradespersons.
• Off-the-Job Training: A minimum of 20% of your time will be dedicated to 'off-the-job' training. This includes day-release at college as well as self-directed study time for theory and practice.
• Duration: The apprenticeship typically takes 24 months to complete.  (This may be reduced if you have relevant prior experience.)

What qualifications will I get?

Upon successful completion, you will receive:

• Level 2 Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship Standard.
• Relevant Functional Skills in English and Maths (if required).
• The ability to apply for the Blue Skilled Worker CSCS Card, which proves your competence to employers nationwide.

How will I be assessed?

Your journey has two main stages:

1. On-Programme Assessment: This includes continuous assessment of your work performance, regular reviews with your employer and training provider, practical projects, and building a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
2. End-Point Assessment (EPA): Once you and your employer agree you are ready (a stage known as Gateway), you will sit the final assessment, which includes:

• Knowledge Test: A multiple-choice exam to test your understanding of the theory.
• Observation: A practical assessment where an independent examiner watches you perform specific carpentry tasks.
• Professional Discussion: An interview-style chat about your work portfolio to prove you know your stuff

How do I get a place on the course?

In order to gain a place on this course, applicants must meet the entry criteria and attend a formal interview. All applications are to be submitted via the college website:

https://www.solihull.ac.uk/apprentice/how-do-i-apply

If you have a learning difficulty or disability, please let us know when you apply. If you need help with completing your application and at interview, we can provide support:

http://www.solihull.ac.uk/uni-level-learner/student-services

What are the entry requirements?

To join this programme, you must:

• Be at least 16 years of age.
• Be employed in a relevant carpentry or joinery role for a minimum of 30 hours per week.
• Hold English GCSE Grade 2/E, Level 1 Functional Skills, or an equivalent.
• Hold Mathematics GCSE Grade 2/E, Level 1 Functional Skills, or an equivalent.
• Demonstrate a genuine passion for the industry and a "can-do" attitude.

What else do I need to know?

Carpentry is a rewarding but demanding trade. You will often work outdoors in various weather conditions and must be comfortable working at heights or in confined spaces. You will be expected to wear PPE at all times and will eventually need to build your own professional toolkit.

What can I do after this course?

A Level 2 qualification is just the beginning. You could:

• Progress to the Level 3 Advanced Carpentry and Joinery apprenticeship.
• Move into specialised areas like Heritage Carpentry or Shopfitting.
• Advance into Site Supervision or Project Management.
• Start your own business and become a Self-Employed Tradesperson.