Construction Skills Diploma Level 1 (OSC Pathway)

This course is for you if you are interested in working in the Onsite-Construction side of the construction industry, but do not necessarily know which trade area to specialise in, the level 1 qualification in Construction Skills offers the perfect opportunity to develop practical skills needed by some employers in the industry, whilst giving you a taster of a variety of trades before choosing to progress into further learning in a specific trade. If you are aged 16-18, you will be enrolled on a study programme, which will include retaking GCSEs or undertaking Functional Skills in English and maths if you haven't already achieved a grade 4 or above. You will also be required to complete a work experience placement and an employability programme. This course is usually very popular. Where courses are oversubscribed we will offer places based on the date applications are received and may close applications early. We recommend applying using our website as soon as possible, particularly for oversubscribed courses.

This is a level 1 diploma course which covers a range of hand-skills and practical tasks in the following areas: bricklaying, plastering, carpentry and joinery, and painting and decorating. You will study an introduction to Health and Safety in construction; an introduction to the construction industry; and the applicable units aligned to the chosen construction trades. This is a level 1 diploma course which covers a range of hand-skills and practical tasks in the following areas: bricklaying, plastering, carpentry and joinery, and painting and decorating. You will study an introduction to Health and Safety in construction; an introduction to the construction industry; and the applicable units aligned to the chosen construction trades.

Assessment is by assignment for each unit taken. students will need to compile a portfolio of evidence.

Standard entry to this course is one reference. A GCSE in both English and maths at grade 2 or above is also required, plus two further GCSE's at grade 2 or above including a design or technology-based subject. It is desirable that you can demonstrate a minimum of 90% attendance at your last place of study. All students will undertake a monitoring period for the first six weeks of their programme. During this time, attendance, attitude, attainment, and application toward study will be monitored. A final decision as to the most appropriate level and outcome will be discussed with you towards the end of your first six weeks.

The primary aim of this qualification is to help prepare you to progress into further learning and training in the On-Site Construction side of the construction sector. You may take the qualification as part of a pre-apprenticeship programme or a traineeship. Once you have studied the qualification, you should be in a position to decide which construction trade area you would like to specialise in. You could then consider progressing on to study a level 2 qualification in a specific trade area. Available options at level 2 will be discussed during the year.