Subject Intent

The Construction/Engineering course is designed to support learners to develop an awareness of construction processes. It mainly supports learners who want to learn about the construction industry from the build perspective. It provides learners with a broad introduction to the different trades involved in the sector, the importance of safety and security, and the types of career opportunities available.

Aims

The main aim of the Construction curriculum is to provide a broad engaging scheme of work that allows pupils to achieve to the best of their ability. We aim to equip pupils with a love for construction and for them to develop their knowledge and understanding of the subject. The curriculum for Construction aims to ensure that all pupils:

• Develop the knowledge, understanding and skills of different trades within construction
• Learn practical skills through task related to the real world of construction
• Acquire the skills for independent learning and development
• Develop generic and transferable skills across professions
• Improve the ability to solve problems and think dynamically
• Learn skills relating to project-based research, development and presentation

City & Guilds Basic Construction Skills

This qualification provides the ideal introduction to the construction industry and covers essential skills in the following construction trades: plumbing, flooring, wall tiling, painting and decorating and site carpentry.

In year 9, pupils are introduced to all construction trades mentioned above and have the opportunity to make various products using the skills they develop including a tool box and a shelf.

In year 10 students study unit 1 and 3 of the WJEC Vocational Qualification in constructing the built Environment. This includes a practical making task where they will make a tiled tray.

In years 10 & 11 pupils complete the units for the City and Guild Basic Construction Skills certificate and this course is assessed by an internal and external verifier. The course is broken into various units that relate to some of the construction disciplines. Currently the pupils are studying the following units however it is subject to change:

001 Constructing halving joints

101 Introduction to health and safety in construction

108 Fixing architraves and skirting

114 Painting a panel door

131 Installing rain water goods

All units are practical based and supported by a portfolio including photographic evidence.

On completion of the course you will achieve the City & Guilds Basic Construction Skills certificate. This course is specifically aimed at students who have a desire to work in the construction industry. This is a practical based course and is aimed at developing skills and understanding of specific working practices. The course is taught in specialist facilities that have been designed to replicate a working environment and enhance the learning experience of the student.  Year 11 students study study unit 2 of the WJEC Vocation Qualification where they make a tiled wall with plumbing and some electrics.