Introduction to Construction
Start Date: 2nd September 2026
- Length 1 Year
- Study Full Time
- Location West Lancashire College
Qualification Gained
Entry Level 3 Extended Certificate in Introduction to Construction
Levels ExplainedMore about the course
For students interested in working in the construction industry, but do not know which trade area to specialise in, our Introduction to Construction is the perfect opportunity to develop practical skills needed by some employers in the industry, whilst giving you a taster of a variety of trades before choosing to progress into further learning in a specific trade.
Entry requirements
- There are no entry requirements for this course. However, we require students to have good attendance, an interest in construction, and a willingness to learn.
What will I achieve?
If you successfully complete this course, you will receive a Entry Level 3 Extended Certificate in Introduction to Construction
What will I learn?
- Introduction to health and safety in construction
- Introduction to the construction industry
- Constructing halving joints
- Constructing housing joints
- Constructing cavity walls in brickwork and block work
- Mixing and using concrete
- Bending and joining copper pipes
- Working with low carbon steel pipes and fittings
What experience will I have?
- Community projects
- Trips to industry and trade shows
- Skills competitions, including World Skills UK and NCG Skills
- Links with employers
- Progression to Apprenticeships
How will I be assessed?
- Practical assessments
- End unit tests
Where can I progress?
- Further learning
- Training in the Construction sector
- Pre-Apprenticeship programme
- A traineeship
- Bricklaying Level 1
- Carpentry and Joinery Level 1
- Plumbing Level 1
Our students have gone into employment with:
- JC Construction
- Stackright Ltd
- York Windows
- Peter Roberts Ltd
- Promart Manufacturing
- Martin Boardman Ltd
- Liverpool John Moores University
- Lancashire Heritage Ltd
- Hart & Co
Course costs
If you are 16-18 years old, you do not have to pay course tuition fees*
If you are 19 or over, please speak with our Learner Services team to confirm the fee for this course. Course costs may be subject to change.
If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact Student Services who can offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.
*Exam and registration fees will be paid for by the college. This is subject to satisfactory attendance and course completion.
Contact our team
Meet our Construction students and tutors
Alan Finnetty
Bricklaying LecturerI am a passionate Brickwork lecturer with over 40 years of experience in the construction industry. Throughout my career, I have developed a broad range of knowledge and skills while working on the construction of large residential developments, hospitals, and schools for recognised construction companies. In addition to my industry experience, I have over 15 years of experience in education, teaching and mentoring both 16 to 18-year-old learners and adult students. I hold qualifications in tutoring and assessing Brickwork at Levels 1, 2, and 3, as well as Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) and assessment qualifications. Throughout my career in further education, I have worked with a diverse range of learners, including students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and school groups. I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that enables every student to develop their skills, achieve their qualifications, and progress towards a successful career in the construction industry.
Anthony Dickinson
Bricklaying LecturerI have been a lecturer at West Lancashire College for 10 years. Prior to joining the College, I worked in the construction industry for more than 28 years, developing a broad range of specialist knowledge and practical skills that I now bring to the classroom. I am a dedicated and knowledgeable lecturer with a passion for education and a strong commitment to student success. My extensive industry experience enables me to provide valuable insights and real-world applications, helping students develop a deeper understanding of their subject and prepare for careers within the construction sector. I design and deliver curricula that align with both course objectives and the needs of learners. To support active learning and cater to different learning styles, I incorporate a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on practical activities. I take great pride in helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to achieve their goals and succeed in their chosen careers.
Gary Disley
Carpentry and Joinery LecturerI began my career in the construction industry when I left school, training as a joiner and carpenter. I completed a three-year apprenticeship, achieving both my City & Guilds qualifications and Advanced City & Guilds qualifications. Since then, I have worked on a variety of construction projects across the country, gaining extensive industry experience and developing a broad range of practical skills and knowledge. My career in education began as an on-site assessor, supporting apprentices in the workplace and helping them achieve their NVQ qualifications. I later moved into full-time teaching and have now been teaching for over 14 years, working with both full-time students and apprentices up to Level 3. I am passionate about sharing my industry experience and supporting learners as they develop the skills, confidence, and qualifications needed for successful careers in the construction sector.
Trevor Wells
Electrical LecturerI moved into teaching in 2009 and have worked at West Lancashire College ever since, delivering Level 2 and Level 3 Electrical courses. Throughout my career in education, I have had the privilege of working with many talented students, supporting them as they develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in the electrical industry.
Alex
Electrical Alumni StudentAlthough I did not initially understand some of the concepts and formulas covered on the course, my tutors provided excellent support and encouragement. With their guidance and my determination to succeed, I worked hard to develop my knowledge and skills. That summer, I embarked on a working holiday in Florida with two electrical companies, where I gained valuable industry experience and had the opportunity to secure a full-time position.
Dylan
Bricklaying Alumni StudentI chose the Bricklaying course at West Lancashire College because it would help me work towards securing an apprenticeship in the industry. It was a fantastic, hands-on course with plenty of practical experience, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Alan was an excellent tutor throughout my time at the College, and I am very grateful for his support, guidance, and dedication to helping students succeed.
Michael
Electrical Alumni StudentAs an Electrical student, I progressed from Level 2 to Level 3, steadily increasing my knowledge and understanding of the subject. Throughout the course, I developed strong attention to detail and a solid understanding of electrical science principles. My ambition was to secure an electromechanical apprenticeship with Jaguar Land Rover and build a successful career within the industry.
Mollie
Plumbing Alumni StudentI studied the Level 2 Plumbing course at West Lancashire College because I wanted to take my career in a new and exciting direction. The course provided me with valuable practical skills and industry knowledge, helping me build a strong foundation for my future career. After completing the course, I applied for an apprenticeship with the College, an opportunity I was really looking forward to as the next step in my professional development.
Owen
Bricklaying Alumni StudentI completed my Level 2 course in Bricklaying, successfully achieving my practical units in line with construction standards, as well as earning a distinction in my Health and Safety and Principles of Building City & Guilds online exams. The support at West Lancashire College was excellent—my tutor, Alan, was always available to assist me and my classmates with every aspect of the course. I am now hoping to secure an apprenticeship or progress onto the Level 3 Bricklaying course.
Construction at West Lancashire College
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October Open Event
West Lancashire College
Monday 12th October 2026
4:30pm - 7:00pm
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Thursday 19th November 2026
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February Open Event
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Monday 1st February 2027
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