Develop practical construction, woodworking and decorating skills through supervised farm-based projects. Learners build on introductory skills, gaining confidence in planning, using tools, joining and finishing timber, laying slabs and carrying out suitable concrete work.
Recommended for learners aged 11+, with entry considered individually according to confidence, practical ability and safe working skills.
Future enrolments are subject to confirmation of City & Guilds registration availability for this qualification.
Our Entry Level 3 Certificate in Skills for Working Life – Craft, Design and Technology offers a practical construction pathway for learners ready to build on basic skills. Projects combine woodworking, simple landscaping and timber restoration with ICT, project planning and enterprise.
The selected programme comprises 11 units worth 23 credits, taught through a combination of practical activities, demonstrations, short classroom sessions and supported portfolio work.
We recommend the course for learners aged approximately 11+ who enjoy making, repairing and building things. It may suit home-educated learners, those progressing from Entry Level 2, and young people who benefit from practical, supportive education.
No previous qualification is required. Each learner's readiness to follow safety instructions, use equipment appropriately and complete assessments is considered individually.
Learners may progress to suitable Level 1 Land-Based Studies or other vocational and employability qualifications, depending on their interests and readiness.
The programme combines three preparing-for-work units (9 credits) with eight practical craft, design and technology units (14 credits). Projects are chosen to suit the farm environment while meeting each unit's assessment requirements.
Unit 306 – Candidate Project (3 credits): Plan, carry out and review a practical project such as a planter or other suitable farm item.
Unit 310 – Enterprise Activity (3 credits): Take part in an enterprise activity, such as producing useful handmade items for a small sale.
Unit 313 – Introduction to ICT (3 credits): Develop digital skills for planning, recording and presenting work.
Unit 380 – Recognise and use hand tools and materials used in construction (2 credits): Identify and use suitable tools and materials safely.
Unit 384 – Lay a concrete path (2 credits): Develop practical skills preparing and laying a suitable small concrete path.
Unit 385 – Lay slabs (2 credits): Learn basic techniques for preparing and laying paving slabs.
Unit 386 – Remove screws (1 credit): Remove fixings safely while preparing timber for reuse or repair.
Unit 387 – Join wood-based materials (2 credits): Practise joining timber components for practical projects.
Unit 388 – Drill holes in wood-based materials (1 credit): Develop accuracy and safe working when drilling timber.
Unit 389 – Finish wood-based surfaces (2 credits): Prepare and finish wood-based surfaces to an appropriate standard.
Unit 403 – Restore a timber surface to a painted finish (2 credits): Prepare and repaint suitable timber surfaces.
Learners may make wooden planters, repair or improve suitable farm features and take part in small landscaping projects. Practical activities are supervised and adapted to learners' abilities, with the required assessment standard maintained.
One day per week (9am–3pm) over an academic year, combining practical construction projects with short theory, ICT and portfolio activities. Places and timetables are subject to availability.
Personalised sessions may be arranged for learners who benefit from a quieter environment or additional support. Duration and attendance are agreed individually to meet the qualification requirements.
Suitable project planning, ICT and knowledge activities may be completed remotely, with practical teaching and assessments carried out under appropriate supervision at the farm. Independent study does not automatically count as guided learning.
Assessment is through a portfolio of evidence, which may include assessor observations, practical tasks, photographs, worksheets, project records and discussions. Practical skills must be demonstrated in a realistic working environment.
Learners must meet the criteria for each unit. Reasonable adjustments and support are considered where permitted; there is no single final written examination.
After completing this qualification, learners may be able to progress to:
Continue developing practical land-based construction skills through a Level 1 pathway.
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Build communication, teamwork and preparation for future learning and work.
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Discover other practical qualifications in construction, horticulture and animal care.
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Practical Education Beyond the Classroom
Providing practical, farm-based education, recognised qualifications and alternative learning opportunities at Frampton Farm in Kent and Poppies Farm in Berkshire, helping young people develop confidence, independence and skills for the future.
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Fees & Funding
Course Fees
Fees depend on the learning centre, delivery option and individual support requirements. City & Guilds registration and certification fees may apply. All costs and payment arrangements are confirmed before enrolment.
Privately Funded Places
Parents and carers can enquire directly about places, subject to availability and individual suitability.
School & Local Authority Funding
Schools and local authorities may commission suitable vocational placements, including alternative provision or an agreed Education Otherwise Than At School (EOTAS) package. Funding must be agreed with the commissioning organisation.
Enquire About Fees
Please contact the relevant learning centre for current fees and availability.