Introduction to Construction and Railway Operations

Course overview

This exciting introductory course is designed for students looking to start a career in construction, civil engineering, or roadbuilding.

You’ll gain hands-on experience across a range of practical subjects, alongside developing transferable skills and a solid foundation of theoretical knowledge relevant to the construction industry.

The course also provides essential underpinning knowledge of safe working practices in a construction setting, helping you build confidence and awareness before progressing to further study.

What you will learn

• Railway Engineering practices
• Roadbuilding practices
• Bricklaying practices
• Elements of Other Trade Skills
• Numeracy for Construction
• Safe working in construction
• Reading and producing construction drawings

How the course is assessed

• This practical course is assessed through a combination of hands-on activities and classroom-based theory.

Number of days per week

• 4 Days of attendance are required per week.
• Monday through Thursday, full days.

Entry requirements

• Applicants must be a school leaver at the start of the course. 

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

• Candidates who meet the entry requirements will be invited in for an interview.
• In your personal statement, please clearly explain why you are interested and what motivates you to apply for this course.
• Candidates will be required to complete a numeracy diagnostic assessment during the interview; this will form part of the selection process.

English Proficiency Requirements

Progression and Articulation Routes

• Successful completion of this course and good attendance will provide access to a Level 5 NPA Construction course in the next academic session (2026/2027).

Career options

• Construction Operative
• Highways Operative
• Civil Engineer
• Multiple trade activity