Construction

Why study Construction?

  • You’ll pick up hands-on skills that can be used on real jobs—things like building, measuring, using tools, reading plans, and working safely.

  • The construction industry offers a wide range of jobs: from bricklaying and carpentry to plumbing, painting, and even site management. And there’s a huge demand for skilled workers!

  • Construction is all about thinking on your feet and working with others. These are life skills that help in every kind of job.

  • Many construction students go on to apprenticeships where you get paid to learn on the job.

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.

Recommended YouTube Videos

  • How To Learn Construction Watch here

  • Beginners' Guide To Any Construction Project Watch here

  • Learn to Read and Understand Construction Drawings Watch here

Discover where your course can take you

Not sure what jobs your course could lead to?

Explore career options linked to the subject you’ve applied for. From real-world job roles to industry insights, you’ll see how your studies at New City College can help you build a successful future.

Top tips

Get to know the industry

Do a bit of research on the different roles in construction—like bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing, plastering, and electrical work. Knowing what’s out there helps you figure out what area you’re most interested in.

1

Take Health and Safety seriously

Construction is all about working safely. Start learning the basics of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), tool safety, and site rules—you’ll need them from day one.

2

Practice basic DIY at home (If you can)

Even small projects—like helping with painting, using a screwdriver, or assembling furniture—can give you a head start and make you more confident with tools.

3

"Construction isn’t just about bricks and tools—it’s about building your skills, your confidence, and your future."

New Friends.
New Opportunities.
New City College 

 FAQs

  • Construction is all about building things—like houses, schools, roads, bridges, and more. It’s the process of taking plans and turning them into real structures using tools, materials, and teamwork.

    People who work in construction help create the world around us. Whether it’s putting up walls, wiring a building, laying bricks, or fixing pipes—there’s a role for everyone.

  • Among the trades covered will be (three of the following will be selected)

    • Bricklaying

    • Carpentry and Joinery

    • Plastering

    • Painting and Decorating

    • Construction Operations

    • Wall and Floor Tiling

    • Electrical

    • Plumbing

  • You can progress into employment or further training in specific trade areas such as Level 1 Trowel Occupations (Bricklaying), Carpentry or Painting & Decorating courses. Students who successfully complete the Level 1 qualification can move onto Level 2 construction courses.

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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