Level 1 Carpentry and Joinery Course at MidKent College Maidstone Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNOCN awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Carpentry and Joinery Course in Maidstone. Classes run at MidKent College Maidstone Campus, full-time during the day. You'll need at least four GCSEs at grade 2/F or above, including English or maths, to enrol. The course runs for one year and covers practical carpentry and joinery skills alongside health and safety in construction. You'll build a digital portfolio of work and sit online theory exams. A solid starting point for anyone pursuing a carpentry and joinery qualification. NOCN Extended Certificate in Carpentry and Joinery with certificate.

Who this course is for

This Level 1 qualification is ideal for students who want to work in the construction sector. The course aims to provide you with a range of carpentry and joinery skills and knowledge, alongside developing a very clear understanding of the health and safety requirements for working in the construction industry.

You will create a digital portfolio of work which will be assessed against set criteria and you will sit online theory exams. In addition to your vocational course you will also continue to study maths and English if you havent already achieved a grade 4, and these skills will be further embedded into your vocational course.

Work experience is part of your course, and your tutor will help you to find an opportunity for you to gain key employability skills like communication, team work and time keeping skills.

This full-time course includes a tutorial programme which aims to help you to become a successful independent learner, supports your well-being, provides careers guidance and advice as well as to help further develop your knowledge and skills to become active citizens who contribute positively to society. The College is home to well-equipped workshops and classrooms to accommodate both practical and theory lessons You will be continually assessed throughout the course to ensure you are coping You will be encouraged to seek work experience so you can practice the skills learned on the course This is a study programme which includes English, maths and work experience in addition to your main programme

Entry requirements

A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 2/F or above, including English or maths.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical carpentry and joinery skills used in the construction industry.
  • You'll learn health and safety requirements for working on construction sites.
  • You'll build a digital portfolio demonstrating your skills against set assessment criteria.
  • You'll study the theory behind carpentry and joinery techniques.
  • You'll gain an understanding of materials, tools, and processes used in carpentry and joinery work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at MidKent College Maidstone Campus. Assessment combines a digital portfolio of practical work, assessed against set criteria, with online theory exams. Your portfolio builds throughout the year, giving you a record of the skills you've developed.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. MidKent College Maidstone Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Carpenter: how to become a carpenter starts with a level 1 carpentry and joinery course like this.
  • Joiner: workshop-based role making doors, frames, and fitted furniture.
  • Construction labourer: entry-level site work while building further qualifications.
  • Shopfitter: fitting out retail and commercial interiors.
  • Maintenance operative: carrying out repairs and upkeep in buildings.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Site Carpentry: the next step toward site-based carpentry work and a CSCS skilled-worker card.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Bench Joinery: focuses on workshop joinery, making doors, windows, and staircases.
  • Level 2 Functional Skills in English or Maths: strengthens your application for Level 3 courses or apprenticeships if needed.