Introduction
Thinking About a Career in Construction?
If you’re interested in the construction industry, this course is the perfect starting point! It’s an exciting opportunity to take your first step toward a career that’s both satisfying and rewarding.
Delivered over one half-day per week, this practical, hands-on course gives you an insight into several key construction trades, including:
- Bricklaying
- Decorative Painting
- Carpentry and Joinery
- Plumbing
You’ll learn a variety of trade-specific skills through practical units, helping you make informed choices about your future career in construction.
But it’s not just about trade skills—you’ll also develop employability skills and positive attitudes that employers value, such as:
- Setting goals and working towards them
- Reflecting and learning from experience
- Timekeeping and reliability
This course is designed to give you a real taste of the construction industry, build your confidence, and prepare you for progression to further study or an apprenticeship.
Course code
N4COA
Location
Dumfries Campus
Duration
Attendance:
- Duration: 1 academic year
- Time Commitment: 3 hours per week
- Location: On campus
Group Schedule:
- N4COA groups: All groups attend on Tuesday
This structure allows you to gain practical experience in construction while continuing your school studies.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal academic qualifications required for this course.
However, applicants must be able to demonstrate the ability to work at SCQF Level 4, which means showing a willingness to learn, follow instructions, and engage positively in practical activities.
This course is designed for school pupils who want to take their first step into the construction industry and explore different trades in a supportive, hands-on environment.
Applicants whose first language is not English should upload evidence that they have minimum ESOL Intermediate level 2 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses
Information and Interview Session Requirements
There is no formal interview required for this course.
However, entry is based on the strength of your application form, and it is essential that you complete this yourself—not a guidance teacher or parent. This helps us understand your own interest and motivation for joining the course.
To make your application stand out, you should:
- Show a genuine interest in the construction industry
- Explain why you would like to explore a career in construction
- Highlight any relevant experiences, hobbies, or skills that show your enthusiasm for practical work
Your application is your chance to demonstrate that this course is the right fit for you, so take time to complete it carefully and in your own words.
Course Content
This course is delivered through fully practical classes, giving you hands-on experience in learning the basic skills and techniques from four key construction craft trades:
- Bricklaying
- Carpentry & Joinery
- Plumbing
- Plastering
These practical sessions are designed to help you explore different trades and discover which area of construction interests you most.
Please note: Course content is subject to change, ensuring it stays relevant to industry needs and provides the best learning experience for students
Assessments
Assessment for this course is based on continual practical evaluation throughout the year.
You’ll be assessed on your ability to:
- Apply basic construction techniques safely and accurately
- Follow instructions and work to industry standards
- Demonstrate progress and consistency in practical tasks across different trades
There are no written exams or end-of-year tests—your success depends on how well you perform in the workshop and develop your skills over time. Regular feedback from lecturers will help you improve and stay on track.
Progression
Completing this course gives you a guaranteed pathway into construction.
- Automatic entry will be granted to any College Academy candidate who wishes to enrol in a full-time construction course for the next academic year—provided that you have shown the appropriate level of commitment, attitude, and passion for a career in construction.
- Successful completion of this course will guarantee access to Construction Skills @ SCQF Level 4 as the baseline entry point, with no further formal qualifications required.
- If you already hold the necessary qualifications, you may be able to progress directly into any suitable full-time construction course at a higher level.
This means your performance, attendance, and engagement during this course are key to unlocking your next step. Demonstrating reliability, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn will help secure your progression.
Career Prospects
Completing this course opens the door to a wide range of opportunities in the construction industry. Many students progress to:
? Apprenticeship Programs
The most common next step is securing an SVQ Level 3 Craft Apprenticeship in a trade such as carpentry and joinery, bricklaying, plumbing, plastering, or painting and decorating.
? Employment in Construction
You could also move directly into employment in roles such as:
- Site Operative – assisting on building sites and gaining valuable hands-on experience
- Building Supplies and Merchandising – working with suppliers and customers in the construction materials sector
? Further Training and Specialisation
If you’re keen to keep learning, you can progress to trade-specific courses or advanced qualifications to specialise in your chosen area.
The construction industry offers excellent long-term career prospects, with opportunities to develop into supervisory roles, site management, or even start your own business once you gain experience.
Additional funding information
N/A
Course Contact Details
Michelle Hodgson – hodgsonm@dumgal.ac.uk
Selling Points
Why Choose This Course?
- Proven Pathway to Apprenticeships
- Did you know that 46% of all first-year construction apprentices at Dumfries and Galloway College previously studied a construction-related course here? This shows how valuable this course is as a stepping stone into the industry.
- Employers Value Prior Knowledge
Local employers actively seek apprentices who already have practical skills, health and safety awareness, and an understanding of construction principles. Completing this course gives you a competitive edge when applying for apprenticeships.
- Hands-On Learning
With a strong focus on practical training, you’ll gain real-world experience across multiple trades, helping you discover which career path suits you best.
- Industry Connections
Through employer engagement and college recommendations, you’ll have opportunities to connect with businesses looking for motivated apprentices.
- Essential Employability Skills
Beyond trade skills, you’ll develop teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and IT skills—qualities every employer values.