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  • Construction
  • August
  • Full-Time
  • 1 year
  • Carpentry and joinery
  • SCQF Level 5

NPA CARPENTRY AND JOINERY

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Intro to the course:

Build your future in construction.

The NPA Level 5 Carpentry and Joinery provides the essential practical skills and industry knowledge required to begin a career in the construction sector. This hands-on qualification is ideal for those who want to become carpenters and joiners or progress into related roles within the built environment.

Whether you are progressing from a Level 4 Introduction to Construction course or bringing relevant workplace experience, this programme helps you develop the confidence, technical ability and work-ready skills employers are looking for.

Qualification
SCQF Level 5

Study mode
Full-Time

Start date
24/08/2026

Who is the course for?

This course is ideal for:

  • School leavers with an interest in construction
  • Individuals progressing from Introduction to Construction (SCQF Level 4)
  • Career changers looking to enter the construction industry
  • Those with relevant practical experience seeking formal qualifications

If you are motivated, practical and enjoy working with your hands, this course provides a strong starting point for your career.

What will I study?

This course combines practical workshop training with underpinning knowledge to prepare you for real working environments.

Core Construction Skills

  • General workplace health, safety and welfare
  • Understanding safe working practices within the construction industry
  • Developing productive and efficient work practices

Practical Carpentry and Joinery Skills

  • Safe use of hand tools and equipment
  • Safe operation of portable power tools and fixed machinery
  • Manufacture of woodworking products, including a window and door
  • Installation of doors and windows
  • Installation of suspended timber floors and partitions

Employability and Core Skills Development

In addition to practical trade skills, you will also develop:

  • Problem-solving and planning skills
  • Organisational and time management abilities
  • Effective communication within a construction team
  • Industry awareness and professional working standards

Training takes place in our purpose-built, industry-standard workshops, giving you valuable hands-on experience in a realistic working environment.

Next step course options

NC Built Environment Course

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is ongoing and based on a combination of practical workshop tasks and knowledge-based assessments. This ensures you develop both the hands-on ability and theoretical understanding required within the industry.

Why should I choose this course?

Why Choose NPA Carpentry and Joinery Level 5 at South Lanarkshire College?

  • Develop industry-relevant skills in a supportive environment
  • Train in modern, fully equipped workshops
  • Learn from experienced construction professionals
  • Gain practical experience that prepares you for apprenticeships and employment

With continued demand for skilled tradespeople across Scotland, the NPA Level 5 Carpentry and Joinery offers the ideal starting point to build a successful career in the construction industry.

Where can this course lead?

Successful completion can lead to:

  • Construction Apprenticeship (including Modern Apprenticeship in Carpentry and Joinery)
  • Entry-level employment within the construction sector

This qualification provides a solid foundation for further study and long-term career progression within the industry.

What are the entry requirements?

Applicants should have:

  • Introduction to Construction SCQF 4 or Prior work place experience
  • Internal Reference (Current student of SLC)
  • Core Skills Assessment (New student to SLC)

What are the interview arrangements?

There is no formal interview, however, there will be a core skills assessment for new learners.

Fees, finance and funding

This course is eligible for Bursary.

Please note, fees are subject to change, please double-check this when enrolling in your course

If you are unsuccessful in your Bursary application, you may be liable for the full cost of course

For more information please visit the finance pages - Fees, finance and funding options.

Other information:

For more information on this course and to speak to a member of our team email admissions@slc.ac.uk

Need more help?

Would you like to speak to someone about your application today? We’d love to hear from you.

You can drop into the Student Advice Centre between 8.45am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Tel: 01355 270750
Email: applications@slc.ac.uk

Choose your study options

Study mode Full-Time Start date 24/08/2026 Duration 1 year
Apply now