Construction and the Built Environment (Level 1/2 Award)

Head of Department: Mrs K Burden 

What is the Level 1 & 2 Vocational Award in Construction and the Built Environment (Technical Award)?

Construction is a subject that enables skills development in relation to the construction industry.

What skills will I develop?

You will develop a range of construction skills, including: carpentry; joinery; painting and decorating; and tiling. You will also develop a range of skills which are attractive to employers, colleges and universities, including communication, critical thinking, independent learning, research and time management.

What syllabus will I follow?

Eduqas (formerly WJEC) Level 1 & 2 Vocational Award in Construction and the Built Environment (Technical Award).

What will the course look like?

You will complete several practical-based assignments designed to enable you to develop the necessary skills and be able to demonstrate proficiency in three construction trade areas of the built environment.  In addition, you will be introduced to the principles of the built environment and theory aspects will include exploring a range of professional and trade roles and some of the different structures and buildings of the built environment.

What homework will I get?

You will be expected to undertake revision independently in the run up to your exams and for in-class tests over the duration of both year 10 and 11.

How will I be assessed?

Unit 1: Introduction to the Built Environment is externally assessed by a 90-minute examination. You will have one exam for Unit 1 which will be worth 40% of your qualification. The exam will last 1 hour and 30 minutes, and it will be made up of short and extended response questions.

Unit 3: Constructing the Built Environment is internally assessed in the form of a portfolio containing photographs, diagrams and planning documents. This Unit will be assessed via project work and coursework (no exam), which is worth 60% of your qualification. Here you will be asked to prepare and complete three trade-based tasks.

What jobs or further courses of study might this lead to?

The construction industry offers a wide range of exciting opportunities, from tradesperson to leading large scale construction projects, and from an architect to renovator of our historic built environment. A significant number of pupils who have previously completed this course have moved on to higher studies and training at Cambridge Regional College. Several students have gained apprenticeships or are now working in the construction industry.

Are there any entry requirements for this course?

The course will appeal to those interested in pursuing careers in the construction industry.  No prior knowledge, understanding, skills or qualifications are required, however basic proficiency in literacy and numeracy, problem solving and enterprise, and motivation to work independently would be beneficial. An interest in building practical skills, working safely with tools and machinery, is of vital importance.

If I need additional support, what can I access?

citb.org.uk

hse.gov.uk

rospa.co.uk

citb.co.uk/bconstructive

goconstruct.org