Construction Skills SCQF 5 (Fort William and Portree) NPA

What is special about this course?

Our course offers you practical experience in the different sectors of the industry, each delivered by practising tradespeople. So try your hand at bricklaying, roofing, electrics, joinery etc. By working on these different specialities over the year, you will be in a position to make an informed choice about which one you prefer and wish to continue through either employment, a possible apprenticeship or further college training.

You do not need any experience to join us but we know you will gain plenty through practical sessions, sharing years of work experience with our lecturers, learning from others in the class and making the most of our purpose-built and well-equipped construction rooms.

This course is also ideal for those looking to learn DIY skills to build their confidence and gain recognised qualifications in construction.

You will have the chance to take industry certificates: Health and Safety (IOSH), CSCS Card and Access Platforms (safe use). You will also be supported in a two-week work placement where you can put your new skills into practice.

Entry requirements

You should be reasonably fit and able to work to a National 4/5 level of study. 

We’ll be inviting you by email to attend course information sessions between now and the start of your course. We’d urge you to come along if at all possible.

  • Plumbing
  • Brickwork
  • Blockwork
  • Carpentry and joinery
  • Painting and decorating
  • Roof slating and tiling
  • Electrical
  • Stonemasonry – Introduction
  • Plastering and plaster boarding
  • Construction practices
  • Two week work placement in industry
  • Embedded development of core and essential skills

You will also have the chance to take the following industry certificates:

  • Health and Safety – IOSH
  • CSCS card
  • Access Platforms – Safe use

The majority of SQA units in this course are at SCQF level 4/5. The course is continuously assessed and assessments take place throughout and/or at the end of each unit.

How will I study my course?

  • Full Time

You normally need to commit to 18 hours per week (2-3 days) of blended learning time consisting of timetabled learning and personal study.

For the practical elements of your course, most of your timetabled learning will take place in our construction room in the Fort William or Portree centre.

How long will my course last?

34 Weeks

Where can I study my course?

    • Fort William
    • Portree

Start date

September

Fees

Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.

Funding

Students may also qualify for bursary funding.

What can I do on completion of my course?

Career progression includes apprenticeships in the construction industry, labouring positions, self-employment and progression onto higher education studies within the construction industry.

Is there more information available online?

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Apply for Construction Skills SCQF 5 (Fort William and Portree) NPA

I want to start in 2025/26

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.