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Skilled Trades

How to become a
Carpenter / Joiner

Build, fit and repair timber structures. Site work and bespoke joinery both require accurate practical skills.

Typical salary£25k–£45k
Time to train1–3 yrs
Typical cost£2k–£6k
UK demandHigh demand in construction and renovation

Why this work still needs people

The work happens in varied real-world settings. It needs dexterity, safe decisions and practical problem-solving on site.

Demand: High demand in construction and renovation.

93/100AI resilience score

How to get started

Training routes vary by employer and location. These are the main steps to investigate before you enrol.

  1. 01

    City & Guilds Level 2 Carpentry & Joinery

    Foundation skills, hand tools, power tools, joints, first fix and second fix work. Available at FE colleges and private training centres.

  2. 02

    Level 3 Advanced Carpentry

    Complex joinery, staircase construction, roof work. Significantly increases your earning potential and range of work.

  3. 03

    CSCS Card

    Construction Skills Certification Scheme card, required for working on most construction sites in the UK.

Ready to look at training?

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Salary, cost and training figures are indicative. Check current entry requirements with employers, awarding bodies and training providers before paying for a course.