
Able Skills is open 7 days every week – Please feel free to pop in and see what we do.
No Appointment Required * No Sales * No Pressure
As we are open 7 days - Courses can be completed either through the week (Mon-Fri) or at weekends (Sat-Sun) – All Course Times are: 08.30am - 16.30pm
A deposit will secure a course start date and any balance can be paid on the start date or spread over the period of your training – Interest Free!
Please call for details * Email us * Request a free brochure and DVD
Able Skills has their own accommodation available at £20 per night for those of you who are travelling longer distances to train with us.

Training for Carpentry C&G 6217-02 And NVQ level 2 - 8 Week Course
Able Skills has structured this 8 weeks of carpentry training for those of you who are looking to change career and to train to move into work undertaking site carpentry.
Able Skills is lucky enough to have the trained and experienced staff in place to ensure that you finish your time here with more than enough knowledge to move you forward within the carpentry industry.
Due to popular demand, Able Skills has now allocated an entire training centre to learning all aspects of carpentry skills including the correct use of hand and power tools, bench work, first fix, second fix and developing your full understanding of all site related health and safety. We also have space allocated for the assembly of the larger assessments and also an area dedicated to Kitchen Fitting.
Carpentry City & Guilds And NVQ
We have devised a training course which will provide you with a City & Guilds carpentry qualification and a very in depth understanding of what is required to gain an NVQ. You will understand what the correct path to gaining qualifications (NVQs) is:
Key points are:
1. Quality training, good enough and detailed enough to set you up with the required industry skills.
2. A qualification which will be your entry into your chosen industry
3. Training on all NVQ units
4. Learner pack
5. Portfolio
Why 8 Weeks?
We feel that 10 days isn't enough time to teach you detailed carpentry skills to allow you to work safely and competently so we have allocated 8 weeks. An initial period of 6 weeks will see you achieve a Carpentry City & Guilds qualification and then to build on this and offer you as much reality as possible, we have allocated a further 2 weeks.
After 8 weeks of intensive hands on training, we are confident that once you are working within the industry, NVQ achievement will be easier for you and should not prove as difficult as you may think.
Warning
We are aware that there are many training providers who are advertising that you can achieve NVQs within 10 or 15 days, this simply isn't possible. You cannot expect to be close to being competent enough in just 10 or 15 days and to believe that you would be is just setting yourself up for disappointment. Please choose your Training Provider carefully
The truth is, NVQs are assessments carried out, at work, to establish your skill level and to establish just how competent you are in your Carpentry abilities. NVQ's cannot be obtained in a training facility, they can only be gained once you are working within the carpentry industry and these 8 weeks will provide what you need to get into the industry!
In this period of 8 weeks, you will gain a City & Guilds qualification followed by NVQ achievement training which will provide you with just this opportunity. The City & Guilds qualification will act as your underpinning knowledge and will incorporate many of the areas which make up NVQ units so you will be learning all of the time.
C&G 6217-02 & NVQ: 8 Week Carpentry Certificate - £2795 (inc vat)
A £500 deposit will secure start dates and the balance can be spread over the training period @ £286.87 per week. Plus Site Visit Costs*
Training for Carpentry C&G 6217-02 And NVQ level 2 - 8 Week Course
Here, we explain the requirements and Able Skills Carpentry training plans in order for you to achieve the City & Guilds 6217-02 qualification and preparation for NVQ assessment:
In the first 6 weeks of your course we will provide training and assessment to cover the following C&G 6217-02 Carpentry Units:
There are 6 mandatory Units and you must complete any 2 Units from the 3 optional units to be awarded a certificate in full.
The 6 Mandatory Units are:
• 001 Fixing Skirting to a timber background
• 002 Fixing floor joists and laying flooring
• 003 Fixing door lining in stud partition or blockwork opening
• 004 Hanging an internal door
• 005 Making a casement window
• 058 Fixing and stabilising trussed rafters
The 3 Optional Units are:
• 059 Accessing for carpentry and joinery
• 060 Setting out and cutting one pair of common rafters
• 061 Operating basic wood machines
This particular award is incredibly hands on and will provide you with plenty of Carpentry knowledge and confidence and will go some way to preparing you for the industry.
The C&G qualification alone is not enough basis for the NVQ process which is why we provide an additional 2 weeks Carpentry training, should this be your choice.
QUA 808 - Carpentry NVQ Level 2 - Site Carpentry
This is the award which we will be providing training in and encouraging you to achieve once you are working within the Carpentry industry.
NVQs are assessments carried out, at work, to establish your skill level and to establish just how competent you are in your Carpentry abilities. This is why we are providing you with 8 weeks of training in total preparation for the NVQ process.
During the entire 8 weeks we will ensure you have a detailed understanding of all of the units which go together to make up an NVQ in Site Carpentry.
The Full Route to achieve a Carpentry NVQ is made up of the following:
QCF01 - Conforming to General Safety in the Workplace
QCF02 - Conforming to Efficient Working Practices in the workplace
QCF03 - Moving and Handling Resources in the Workplace
Supported by THREE optional units from:
QCF09 - Installing First Fixing Components in the Workplace
QCF10 - Installing Second Fixing Components in the Workplace
QCF11 - Erecting Structural Carcassing Components in the Workplace
QCF12 - Maintaining Non-Structural Carpentry Work in the Workplace
QCF13 - Setting Up and Using Circular Saws in the Workplace
During each NVQ Carpentry unit you will have to demonstrate areas of the generic units which are:
• QCF01
• QCF02
• QCF03
You will need to ensure that you have evidence of these units within the portfolio you will be building and so training for these will be provided.
The areas to be covered will include:
• Health & Safety / First Aid
• SSOW (safe system of work)
• Correct use of tools and electrical equipment
• Ordering, storing and use of materials
• Good housekeeping
• PPE
• Use and safety of scaffolding and ladders
• Identifying appropriate materials
• Site supervision and management
Training for these units will be completed using practical training, theory classes and handouts to assist you in your understanding of what is required of you whilst in the work place. During each further carpentry unit you undertake to achieve the NVQ, you will have to demonstrate areas of the generic units which are QCF01 / QCF02 / QCF03.
As 3 of the next 5 units are the required units to fully achieve a Carpentry NVQ, we will use the 2 extra weeks to assess the necessary competencies required to achieve:
QCF09 - Installing First Fixing Components in the Workplace - In order for you to have competence in this unit, we will ensure that you have a full understanding of Roofs - traditional, trussed and flat; suspended timber floors; windows; stairs; timber studwork; door frames and linings; ground lats and sills.
QCF10 - Installing Second Fixing Components in the Workplace - Your competence in this unit will be achieved by gaining an understanding of joinery work after plaster work is completed. We will cover elements such as mouldings; internal doors; ironmongery; encasing services (coverings for pipes & cables etc) and wall & floor units.
QCF11 - Erecting Structural Carcassing Components in the Workplace - You will be taught how to interpret drawings, schedules and manufacturers information related to the work to be carried out in order to prepare and fix gable roof trussed rafters, cut roofs, ground, upper and flat roof joists, flooring and decking amongst other things.
QCF12 - Maintaining Non-Structural Carpentry Work in the Workplace - We will ensure that you are aware of procedures and the skills required to maintain work such as replacement of sash cords, replacing door/window frames, architraving, skirting, dado rails and picture rails. We will also ensure that you are able to form joints associated with repairs and repair or replace door and window ironmongery.
QCF13 - Setting Up and Using Circular Saws in the Workplace - This unit is about interpreting information; adopting safe and healthy working practices; selecting materials, components and equipment; setting up fixed and/or transportable machinery and sawing to size timber and timber-based sheet material and/or non-ferrous metal.
This structured carpentry training programme, consisting of 8 full weeks will provide you with a City & Guilds 6217-02 Carpentry Certificate initially (obtained within the first 6 weeks) which will act as your underpinning knowledge and will incorporate many of the areas which make up carpentry NVQ units so you will be learning all of the time.
This particular award is incredibly hands on and will provide you with plenty of carpentry knowledge and confidence and will go some way to preparing you for the industry.
The process will also ensure you have a full understanding of portfolio building and evidence gathering.
Once you have completed your 8 weeks of intensive, hands on Carpentry training, you will then be industry ready which is where you need to be in order to achieve a Carpentry NVQ. To achieve the NVQ you must undertake a CSCS test and be registered with an NVQ Assessment Centre and assessed in the work place, Able Skills will register you under our Centre as part of this carpentry training programme.
To finish this training experience, we will provide you with a start up portfolio which will include all of the evidence and assessment sheets ready for you to use as and when you gather your work based evidence. We will also continually support you throughout the process and if you choose, we will check your portfolio evidence to ensure that you are on the right track.
We will be looking for you to gain photographic evidence of work you are undertaking along with quotes, drawings, estimates, job references and letters from customers relating to the work you have undertaken. This ongoing evidence and information will be encouraging as you witness the improvement in your carpentry abilities and it also enables you to see your own progression.
When you are ready for work based assessments, we will arrange for our carpentry Assessors to visit you at your place of work. We estimate that 2 site visits will be required and the cost per visit will be £250*
Once you have completed your portfolio to a competent level, complete with all necessary evidence and details of the 2 site visits, Able Skills Assessors will claim your Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Wood Occupations - Site Carpentry for you.
As well as an abundance of practical training in training areas other centres can only dream about, we will provide you with 3 instructors, classroom facilities, a learner pack for study at your own leisure, Heinemann Carpentry NVQ Level 2 study book and of course, your portfolio.
This is a hands-on, practical course, it is therefore recommended you bring suitable clothing and for your own safety, steel capped footwear is essential.
We offer training at weekends if you have work or other commitments through the week. We aim to make our training as accessible as possible to everyone
C&G 6217-02 & NVQ : 8 Week Carpentry Certificate - £2795 (inc vat)
A £500 deposit will secure start dates and the balance can be spread over the training period @ £286.87 per week. Plus Site Visit Costs*
Cost and Duration of 8 Week Professional NVQ Carpentry Course
Duration: 8 Weeks
Additional Information
Able Skills is open 7 days every week and most courses can be completed either through the week (Mon-Fri) or at weekends (Sat-Sun) – Please call for details
A deposit will secure your start date and any balance can be paid on the start date or spread over the period of your training – Interest Free!
For all workshop based training and/or assessment we recommend suitable clothing and for your safety, protective footwear is essential.
Carpentry Courses at Able Skills
by Able Skills
Paul H
I picked Able Skills because they were very clear about logistics, the price of their courses, timings etc. They were straightforward on the phone. They were ideally situated, commutable from central London, offering a low commitment course to test things out. A great course to find out if you want to go further with Carpentry.
Joseph I
I found the Carpentry course extremely informative. Tutors were friendly and professional and very knowledgeable, passing information on to students in a practical and memorable fashion. Thanks Steve and Tim, great job!
Zack M
Great Tutors, very knowledgeable. Very friendly and helpful. They don’t fill you with a load of nonsense only useful advice. They don’t just give you the answer to your problem, they explain how, why and where you would use it. The overall rating for Able Sills is Excellent, just as the reviews had suggested.
Johnathan C
I found the Carpentry intensive five day course extremely interesting and helpful, exactly what I was hoping for. Instructors were very professional and adept at pitching information in a way that all easily understood. Very enjoyable, many thanks.
Sanjay S
I found Able Skills online. I chose to train with them further to my visit at the centre. I did not have to book an appointment to visit, they have an open door policy. The most important factors to me when training were quality of course, practical aspects and flexibility, the no hard sell was a bonus! The course was top quality with exceptional tutoring. Their tutors are the top of their game and take time to pass on their knowledge. I am very happy and will come back for more. Ten out of ten !
Daniel
I took the 6 week carpentry 6217 at Able Skills. Tim and Steve were great instructors and both very helpful and knowledgeable, they allowed great training and a great atmosphere in the workshop. Excellent! The course was value for money and met with all my expectations.
Jack H – 5 Day Intensive Carpentry Course
I decided to train with Able Skills as they offered good value for money. Course tuition was fantastic! A lot was fitted in during the 5 days but because of excellent tuition and explanation, you didn’t need to go over things twice and you didn’t feel rushed.
David G – 5 Day Intensive Carpentry Course
Able Skills offer such a great variety of courses that is one of the main reasons I choose to train with them. I found the course content to be very good and both the tutors were brilliant and could answer any questions that I had about projects I wanted to undertake in my home. They also adapted the course best suited to my personal needs.
Ian Johnson
I took the 5 day Intensive Carpentry Course. I really enjoyed this week, Steve and Tim’s tuition was excellent, thank you. The course was value for money and I would rate Able Skills as excellent.
Dimitre Ivanov
The course was very good. I learnt very important things that can help me with my future career. Both of my instructor were exceptionally good. They taught me a lot of valuable and wise points in carpentry. I’m very, very happy. The overall rating for Able Skills is excellent. I am glad that I found them on the internet.
James Crabb
I find their instructors nice to talk to and very good at their jobs. This is the reason I return to Able Skills for my training. The course is value for money and their overall rating is excellent. I would definitely recommend them.
James Dowler
I chose to train through Able Skills as they were able to offer the same qualifications as my local College in less time. The instructors were all very helpful, giving not only training advise by also offering advice in what to expect when working in the trade. I would definitely attend other training Courses though Able Skills and recommend to others.
Graham Wartho
I heard about Able Skills through a friend. I thought Steve was an excellent instructor. He explained things very well and gave everyone a lot of time. He also made sure we were doing the task properly and was always there to help. I was recommended to Able Skills through a friend and felt the course was value for money and met all my expectations.
Jim Margary
Able Skills have excellent facilities and instruction from its Tutors. The course was value excellent and I would recommend others to Able Skills.
Simon Lee
It is very hard to find such excellent tutors. The standard of both Tim & Steve’s teaching is second to none. It is a very friendly and fun environment to be in with everyone feeling part of the task however fast or slow you are picking it up. I chose Able Skills after reading other peoples reviews. Both Tutors had different approaches to solving problems, which helps you see which one suits you. There is a lot of emphases on planning & checking which I feel makes you aware of the issues you will later face if you do not prepare beforehand.
Mark Jolly
Both Steve and Tim are excellent instructors! Patient and encouraging. Able Skills are an excellent training company and I would recommend.
Andy George
The course has given me a good foundation in Carpentry. Steve’s instruction was first class and he passed on a great deal of knowledge. He was keen and always gave encouragement. Thank you for making this an enjoyable week.
Dean Cox
Excellent instruction! Patient course tutors with knowledge second to none. Plenty of practice, I picked up many useful tips, Thank you!
Christopher Pluck
I was placed on a training course through the company I work for. I would like to say the tutors were very patient and clear with their instructions, superb at their jobs. I would recommend to others.
Shayne Liddle
I thought for a week’s course, we packed in a lot of various tasks which I learned a great deal from and hope I can use at my work place. I would consider taking a plumbing course with Able Skills, I would definitely rate them as excellent.
Michael Wilson
Tim and Steve were excellent tutors and very approachable with a good teaching style. Did get very hot a couple of times but overall a great place to train. Very happy thanks!
Eric Benn – 6 Weeks Hands On Carpentry and Joinery Course
I did consider other training providers but none of them provided the course that I was interested in. It was also easy to get to from my home and they provided fantastic support, from booking the course all the way through to the training. Both my tutors, Tim and Steve had lots of ideas for my specific learning programme. Great set up at Dartford - enjoyed every moment.
Farrukh Ahmad – 4 Weeks Hands On Carpentry Course
I considered training centres closer to my home but none of the other centres catered for my needs. I think the style of the tutors at Able Skills was exactly what I needed. I enjoyed it more than other courses I have attended at colleges. I really enjoyed the facilities and the friendly atmosphere.
Able Skills has grown and so has the amount of students in attendance and we are being used by everyone right across the UK and abroad.
As a result of the increase in students, Able Skills has purchased 3 properties to accommodate the growing numbers of people travelling from distance.
Able Skills properties are licensed HMO (Houses in Multiple Occupation) and are fully equipped in line with local authority standards.
The properties will provide you with your own fully furnished room with washing facilities and TV. There are several bathrooms/WCs as well as fully fitted kitchens and a dining areas to eat and/or meet your fellow students.
Able Skills employs someone to maintain the properties on a regular basis and also to ensure that the property is being looked after by those staying.
We are very pleased to be able to offer this accommodation at £20 per night and we are keen to ensure that your time away from home is enjoyable and comfortable. The properties are situated close to all of our training centres and some have allocated private parking facilities.
This enables you to leave your vehicle in a safe and secure environment and make that short walk to whichever course you are attending.
We are a very popular choice of training centre and as a result we are very busy and so is our accommodation. We would recommend that you make every attempt to tie in any accommodation requirements at the time of booking your course.
If our accommodation is full, there are other local alternatives available which range from £20 per night upwards.
During your stay at Able Skills accommodation we will guarantee you a secure area to keep all of your belongings and additionally, we guarantee that the only people using this property are Able Skills students.
Should you require any additional information or wish to book training and accommodation, please do not hesitate to contact Gary, Angela or John on 01322 280 202.
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