The construction sector is booming in the UK, and now is the perfect time to prepare for a career in it. This course will teach you core principles and processes for construction design, surveying and planning. It’s perfect if you’re hoping to work in areas like surveying and design, civil engineering, or building services design.
Alongside real-life work experience, this course will prepare you for higher-level studies or work in the fast-paced construction industry.
What you’ll learn ??
You’ll develop a baseline understanding of how the construction industry works, studying construction methods and core principles and processes.
You’ll get to grips with the science behind building design, surveying and planning, and learn about digital engineering techniques, data management and building regulations. You’ll also focus on topics specific to design, surveying and planning, such as project management and managing resources.
This course will include:
Construction methods, building regulations and standards
How the Internet of Things (IoT) impacts construction
Digital engineering and mathematical techniques
Construction design principles and processes
The construction industry and its role in the economy
Relationship management and customer service
Sustainability and the environmental impact of construction
Project management
Budgeting and resource allocation
Procurement
Risk management
At Gloucestershire College, we’re also proud to work closely with local and national construction companies to give you at least 9 weeks of valuable work experience.
Highlights
You can look forward to:
Specialised work placements that bring your knowledge to life in a construction environment
Learning up-to-date skills in a real-life setting
Insightful guest talks from construction and building services professionals
Learning from expert lecturers who’ve worked in surveying and building services
Previous students have had work experience and industry days with the likes of Kier, Wills Bros, and Roberts Limbrick
Assessment
You’ll be assessed through a combination of examinations, an employer set project and practical assignments. This will all contribute to you being able to demonstrate knowledge and skills throughout this area of study.
Anything else?
As well as learning the theory, you’ll have a 45-day industry placement that is related to the construction sector. You’ll be able to focus on up-to-date industry knowledge and skills that are highly valued by employers and those in the industry.
You’ll also develop transferable soft skills and critical work skills that prepare you for your next steps.
Typical Entry Criteria
Five GCSE subjects at Grade 4 and above including:
GCSE English Language or Literature at Grade 4 and above
GCSE Math at Grade 4 and above
Science based GCSE at Grade 4 and above (Recognised Science GCSEs: Core Science, Double Award Science, Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
Two other GCSE subjects at Grade 4 and above
Age Criteria: Under 19
Gloucestershire College welcome any other/combinations of relevant qualifications that are comparable and/or equivalent to the typical course entry requirements.
Applicants that do not have recognised qualifications may still meet course entry requirements through alternative methods of assessment at the College’s discretion.
All queries regarding course entry criteria including the equivalency of qualifications and exceptional extenuating circumstances should be directed by email to the Admissions Department through applications@gloscol.ac.uk.
On completion of this course you will be able to move into a skills led occupation or further study such as a higher degree level apprenticeship or higher level technical study such as Higher Education
Shortlist and Apply
Please select the specific course you would like to apply for.
What You Will Pay
Please select a course to see pricing information.
Construction is a key industry sector in Gloucestershire and now is the perfect time to train for a qualification in any of the industry areas we offer. Our construction courses are a great way to develop skills and build the foundation for a successful career in domestic and industrial construction.
We are the first UK college to buy a house as a renovation project for our construction and building services students, to further develop their skills and provide them with practical experience of working on-site with other trades, and it’s initiatives like this that ensure our students leave us employment-ready.
“The people I’ve met – especially my lecturer – are really easy to talk to. The facilities are wonderful and all in order; it’s very easy to pick out and find what you need. Carpentry is fun and enjoyable, and sets you up for the rest of your life. I feel really prepared for life after college and the skills I’ve learnt are useful in daily life.
“To someone thinking of applying to GC I would say that it’s absolutely brilliant and somewhere you can learn lots and achieve a high grade. I’m working on sites at the moment so I get to travel and do renovations and house builds, which I want to continue after college.”
Ben Mason
Level 2 – Carpentry – Gloucester Campus
“Prior to starting my apprenticeship, I worked in plumbing and removals, but was ready for a career change. I’ve learnt many new skills in my apprenticeship, including fitting door linings, hanging doors and measuring and fitting kitchens.
The college side of my training has been very useful for when I’m working on site and my assessor has been helpful when showing me skills on a one-to-one basis.
An apprenticeship was the best route for me and I hope to become a self-employed carpenter once I complete my training”
Harry Taylor
Bench Joinery Apprentice at Pickering and Spencer
“The course gave me a great overview of the construction industry, which is exactly what I needed to progress in my career. I wanted a change and this equipped me with the knowledge and skills I required in order to do that. I now work as in Administration Manager in family run Construction business and I really enjoy it.
“The lecturers were very supportive and the knowledge they have is immeasurable. They have lots of experience in the industry. I very much enjoyed the variety in modules too, it allowed us to be creative and practically use what we had learnt.
“I made some great friends here, it was a very inclusive atmosphere.
“I would do it all again, it was such a brilliant experience. I would advise anyone thinking of applying to GC to not be afraid and make the jump!”
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