Schools

There are hundreds of different jobs available in the construction industry. Sometimes it’s not easy to know which trade to study especially if you’ve never really experienced them before. At Gloucestershire College you will have the opportunity to find out which trade suits you the most. In only 7 weeks you’ll be given a taster of bricklaying, carpentry, painting and decorating and plastering. After you’ve finished this level one course you can then decide to specialise in a particular trade, and take our level 1 diploma. You may also decide to find work and apply for an apprenticeship. Gloucestershire College has a purpose-built Construction Department that’s set out as if you are on a site, so you’ll get a real feel of what it would be like to work in the industry. This course is offered at both our Gloucester and Cheltenham Campuses so wherever you live you can start your career in construction. Past students have said "This has been great and enabled me to try out a few trades before I decided on what to do further training in." “ I thought I wanted to be a bricklayer but after doing this course I realised I was a much better painter and decorator and that is the area I am now doing my level 2 course in.”

You’ll soon learn that health and safety is extremely important in the construction industry therefore it’s essential you are kitted out in protective clothing and steel toe-capped shoes or boots.

This level one course is open to a wide range of abilities and your suitability will be assessed at interview. You will attend a half day training session as part of the selection process which will also give you an opportunity to meet other learners and the tutors.

On successful completion of the progression award and with a reference from your tutor outlining your attitude to work, punctuality and attendance you will be interviewed for the level one course in the specialist area you have chosen. Your tutors will be able to guide you with your choice if you are uncertain in which area to specialise in.