Quick facts
| Qualification type | Level 2 Diploma |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:00 to 4:15. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements | Successful completion of a Progression Level 1 trade qualification or a substantial history within the construction industry. GCSE English and maths at grade 3 or above or Functional Skills at Level 2. This course is a progression course for students who are currently studying at West Suffolk College. |
| Campus | West Suffolk College Built Environment Campus, The Milburn Centre, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
This one-year, full-time course is for you if you have successfully completed a Progression Level 1 trade qualification or have a substantial history within the construction industry.
Your trade knowledge and practical skills will be extended and the underpinning knowledge of six core trades (Brickwork, Carpentry and Joinery, Painting and Decorating, Plastering, Plumbing and Tiling) will be enhanced and assessed to meet industrial standards throughout the course.
There will be the opportunity to join a group on this course sponsored by The Flagship Housing Group, known as the 'pre-Apprenticeship Maintenance Operations Group'. Flagship will work alongside you, provide equipment and work experience and the opportunity to progress, via an interview and successful completion of the course, to a Carpentry, Plumbing or Electrical Apprenticeship with Flagship or RTF Services (one of their subsidiary companies).
What you'll learn
You will learn how to be proficient in the following trades:
- Bricklaying
- Carpentry and Joinery
- Painting and Decorating
- Plastering
- Plumbing
- Roof Tiling
You will be required to achieve seven units, two mandatory theory units and five trade related units which are split between practical and theoretical assessments.
Any student who does not hold a GCSE grade 9 to 4 or equivalent qualifications in maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Equipment required for the course
You'll need to purchase the following items in advance of starting your course:
- Steel toe-capped boots
- The Built Environment Campus branded clothing
- Overalls
- Work trousers
- Lever arch file and paper
- Pens and pencils
Work experience placements
This course is assessed by a mixture of theoretical and practical assessments.
Further study
Bricklayer
Carpenter
Joiner
Plasterer
Roof tiler
Painter and Decorator
Property Maintenance
Plumber
Days & times
Starting September 2025