How to become a carpenter
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
College
You could take a college course like:
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Bench Joinery
- Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Site Carpentry
- T Level in On Site Construction
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
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Apprenticeship
You could do a:
- carpentry and joinery intermediate or advanced apprenticeship with a focus on site carpentry or architectural joinery
- wood product manufacturing operative intermediate apprenticeship which has a focus on furniture making
You'll do on-the-job training and spend time at college or a training provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Registration
- you'll need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent to train and work on a construction site
Career tips
If you're thinking of changing career to carpentry, look out for short or part-time 'taster' courses at your local college. These are designed to help you find out if carpentry is for you.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a carpenter from Go Construct and House Building Careers.