Carpentry and Joinery

Why Study Carpentry and Joinery?

  • You’ll learn real, practical skills—like building, fixing, and designing—that you can use forever, whether it’s for work or your own home one day.

  • Carpenters and joiners are always in demand. From construction sites to custom furniture, you can work for a company or even start your own business.

  • You get to actually see what you build, which is super rewarding. Every project is a chance to be creative and problem-solve.

  • No one gets everything right the first time. Carpentry is a craft that improves with time and practice—so stay patient, ask questions, and learn from your mistakes.

  • On successful completion of the Level 1 course you will progress onto either the Level 2 Site Carpentry or Level 2 Bench Joinery course. Alternatively you may wish to undertake an Apprenticeship programme.

Prepare for success

Learn more about your course.

Get ahead of the game and feel confident about what’s coming next. Get a feel for your course by trying the activity below.

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Meet James

“The most valuable part has been learning how to use the tools. Having the hands-on experience has made a huge difference.”

Top tips

Get comfortable with tools early

Start learning how to safely use basic hand tools like hammers, saws, and tape measures. Practising at home (even with small DIY projects) helps you build confidence before you step into the workshop.

1

Take safety seriously

Health and safety are a big part of working in the trade. Learn how to handle tools safely, always wear the correct PPE, and follow guidance in the workshop.

2

Be patient and keep practising

No one gets everything right the first time. Carpentry is a craft that improves with time and practice—so stay patient, ask questions, and learn from your mistakes.

3

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 FAQs

  • Carpentry is the skilled trade of working with wood to build, repair, or install structures and objects. This can include anything from building walls, floors, and roofs in construction, to making doors, windows, staircases, and even furniture.

    Carpenters use a range of tools—like saws, hammers, and measuring tapes—to cut, shape, and join wood. The work can happen on building sites (called site carpentry) or in workshops (called bench joinery).

  • You can expect to study topics including:

    • principles of building (examination)

    • health and safety information (examination)

    • maintain and use hand tools

    • maintain and use portable power tools

    • produce woodwork joints

  • Absolutely. On successful completion of the Level 1 course you will progress onto either the Level 2 Site Carpentry or Level 2 Bench Joinery course. Alternatively you may wish to undertake an Apprenticeship programme.

We’re officially Outstanding!

New City College has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted (March 2025) — the highest grade possible.

Inspectors praised our inclusive culture, exceptional teaching, strong student support, and inspirational leadership. We’re proud to be the largest college in the UK to achieve this top rating — and even prouder of what it means for our students.

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