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Entry Level Construction Skills in Croydon – Croydon College

CostFREE
Duration35 weeks
LevelEntry Level
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
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About this course

Entry Level Construction Skills in Croydon. Classes run at Croydon College, full-time during the day over 35 weeks. Fee remission may be available, so the course could be free depending on your circumstances.

You'll get a hands-on introduction to the construction industry. The course covers plastering, bricklaying, carpentry and joinery, and painting and decorating. You'll also learn health and safety on site, how to use tools and equipment, and communication skills for working with colleagues and supervisors. Work placements give you experience in real construction settings.

You'll need a GCSE in English or an ESOL Entry Level 3 qualification, and a GCSE in maths. Equivalent qualifications are considered. You'll finish with a City and Guilds Extended Certificate in Construction Skills at Entry Level.

Who this course is for

This course provides a thorough introduction to the construction industry, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience to develop essential skills across various trades. Students will explore plastering, bricklaying, carpentry & joinery and painting & decorating, and general building techniques while gaining practical experience with tools and equipment. The course also covers health and safety protocols and emphasizes effective communication skills for collaborating with colleagues, supervisors, and clients. Work placements offer real-world exposure, allowing students to apply their learning in construction settings and gain valuable industry insights.

Entry requirements

GCSE grade 9-1 (A*-F) in English or an ESOL Entry 3 qualification. You will also need GCSE grade 9-1 (A*-F) in maths. Equivalence of these qualifications will be considered. Evidence of a commitment to learn and the ability to study at this level shown at interview.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the basics of plastering, including mixing and applying materials.
  • You'll practise bricklaying techniques and laying courses accurately.
  • You'll develop carpentry and joinery skills, including cutting and fixing timber.
  • You'll learn painting and decorating methods for interior surfaces.
  • You'll understand health and safety rules and regulations on construction sites.
  • You'll gain hands-on experience using tools and equipment safely.
  • You'll build communication skills for working with colleagues, supervisors, and clients.
  • You'll apply your learning during work placements in construction settings.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions and practical, hands-on tasks. Lessons cover construction trades, health and safety, and employability skills. You'll be assessed on both theoretical knowledge and practical work. Work placements are part of the course, giving you experience in real construction environments.

What you will need to bring

Croydon College will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Construction Operative, carries out general tasks on building sites.
  • Labourer, supports tradespeople and keeps sites running smoothly.
  • Plasterer's assistant, helps with plastering work under supervision.
  • Painter and decorator's assistant, prepares surfaces and applies finishes with guidance.
  • Bricklaying assistant, supports bricklayers on residential and commercial projects.

What you could study next

  • Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills, the natural next step to build on what you've learned here.
  • Level 2 Diploma in a specific trade such as Bricklaying, Carpentry, or Plastering, leading toward skilled-worker roles.
  • Functional Skills in English and Maths at Level 1 or Level 2, useful if you want to progress further in the industry or meet employer requirements.
Apply on croydon.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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