Carpentry courses

Carpentry is a varied and rewarding trade, ideal for people who enjoy practical work, solving problems and creating something they can take pride in. From construction and property maintenance to joinery and furniture making, these skills can lead to a wide range of career opportunities.

At Century Training Academy, you will learn through practical, hands-on experience in an environment that reflects what it is really like to work in the trade. Our instructors continue to work professionally in the areas they teach, ensuring you benefit from relevant skills, current knowledge and real industry experience.

I had a tough time at school, but when I enrolled at Century Training Academy, I felt like I had found a comfortable and friendly learning environment.

Simon, Lowestoft

Our course options

For Carpentry at Century Training Academy, the main course options are:

• Entry Level 3 Carpentry – a practical introduction to woodworking, covering workshop safety, hand tools, measuring, marking out and basic carpentry techniques.
• Level 1 Carpentry – for learners ready to develop their skills further through more detailed practical projects and more advanced use of tools and materials.
  
  The course is mainly hands-on and workshop-based, giving learners the opportunity to develop practical skills, confidence and independence while creating projects they can take pride in.

Learners can also study Functional Skills English and Maths, from Entry Level 3 up to Level 2, alongside their vocational programme where required.

Century currently delivers its vocational Carpentry qualifications up to Level 1.

What will you learn?

Our courses are designed to provide the practical skills and knowledge needed to begin developing a future in carpentry and joinery. Depending on your course and current ability, you will learn:

• Carpentry skills and techniques
• More advanced carpentry skills
• Essential joinery techniques
• How to measure, mark and cut materials accurately
• The correct use of hand and power tools
• How to select suitable timber and other materials
• How to construct and assemble timber components
• An introduction to furniture making
• How to complete repairs and maintenance tasks
• Essential health and safety procedures
• How to achieve an accurate, professional finish

Nationally recognised qualifications

Our team tailors learning to the individual, helping you build confidence and giving you the best possible chance of success. You can learn at a pace that suits your needs and abilities. It does not matter whether it takes you six months or two years—we will be here to support you.

Our courses will lead to nationally recognised qualifications, including a Level 1 Diploma. We also recognise prior learning, helping us provide training that reflects your existing knowledge and experience.

We are fully accredited by awarding bodies including the National Open College Network and Gateway Qualifications. We will only put you forward for a qualification when we believe you are ready and have the best chance of passing.

1. Award
   

   An Award is usually the smallest qualification route. It allows learners to focus on specific skills or units within their chosen trade area. This will be a good starting point for learners who are new to the subject, building confidence or working towards further progression.

2. Certificate

   A Certificate is a more detailed qualification than an Award. It allows learners to develop a wider range of practical skills and knowledge within their chosen trade area. This route may be suitable for learners who are ready to complete a more structured programme and show progress across several areas of learning.

   
   
3. Diploma
   

   A Diploma is the largest qualification route. It gives learners the opportunity to build a broader understanding of their chosen trade area and develop a wider range of practical skills. This route may be suitable for learners who are ready for a more in-depth programme and are working towards further training, employment pathways or progression into a specialist area.

Meet the tutors

Gordon Scott

Gordon is our Carpentry tutor at Century Training Academy, helping learners develop practical woodworking skills through hands-on projects. He encourages students to work carefully, build confidence with tools and take real pride in creating something from start to finish.

With a patient and supportive approach, Gordon helps learners develop both their practical ability and their independence in the workshop.

Craig Killick

Craig works alongside Gordon in our Carpentry department, supporting learners throughout their practical sessions. He helps students stay focused, build confidence with tools and get the most from each hands-on project.

His supportive and approachable manner helps learners feel comfortable asking for help and developing their skills at their own pace.