Free Level 1 Construction Skills Course in Newbury. Classes run at Newbury College. You'll get hands-on experience across three trades: Carpentry, Plumbing, and Electrical Installation. The course runs full-time over 37 weeks, giving you a solid grounding in each area before you choose where to specialise. You'll also cover health and safety and workplace skills. GCSE Maths and English at grade 2 or above are required to start; if your grades are below 4, you'll get support to develop them alongside your construction skills classes.
Who this course is for
Interested in construction but not sure which pathway will suit you best? The Construction Mutli Trades pathway is a perfect first step providing a taste of 3 core construction skills; Carpentry, Plumbing and Electrical Installation. You'll have an opportunity to discover the base skills needed across all pathways while exploring all three routes providing a firm foundation for a career in the construction industry whichever pathway you choose to specialise in.
Entry requirements
An interest in the construction and building technologies industry and a willingness to explore the base elements of all three construction pathways; Carpentry, Plumbing and Electrical Installation. Maths and English grades of at least a 2 are needed. For those with Maths and English grades lower than a 4, you will be supported to develop these grades alongside your Multi Trades study programme.
What you will learn
You'll use hand tools and practise basic woodwork techniques including sawing, measuring, and jointing.
You'll learn about domestic pipework, fittings, and basic plumbing installations.
You'll get to grips with wiring, circuits, and the safe use of electrical equipment.
You'll understand health and safety regulations for working on construction sites.
You'll develop communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills used in construction environments.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based and practical. You'll work in workshops to develop hands-on skills across Carpentry, Plumbing, and Electrical Installation. Some parts of the programme are delivered using digital tools, so you'll need to be comfortable with basic computer functions including internet access and word processing. Assessment is through practical tasks and coursework completed during the programme.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Newbury College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Carpentry apprentice: entry-level role working with wood on site
Plumbing apprentice: assisting with domestic pipe and fitting work
Electrical installation apprentice: supporting wiring and circuit work
Construction labourer: general site support across trade areas
Maintenance operative: basic repairs and upkeep in buildings
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Site Carpentry: the next step if you want to specialise in carpentry and work toward a CSCS skilled-worker card.
Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating: takes your plumbing skills further toward a trade qualification.
Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installation: the route into qualified electrical work.
Functional Skills Maths and English Level 2: strengthens your qualifications if you want to progress to Level 3 or an apprenticeship.
