Carpentry

Carpentry: As a carpenter you will work with timber to construct, install and maintain buildings. Carpentry is an obvious choice for those who are good at working with their hands and using hand and power tools. However, modern carpentry demands both manual skills and the ability to read drawings, sketches and plans for building information. Carpenters need to work accurately, be able to estimate the cost of jobs, and determine and order the materials needed for the job.

When you work in the construction industry, your carpentry and building skills literally shape our landscape. As with any construction project you’ll start with the foundations by learning the basics - hand tools, equipment, machinery, techniques and safety – before progressing on to more complex construction processes. When you study building and carpentry at Ara you’ll build your a career that offers variety and opportunity across residential and commercial build or renovation projects, both indoors and out.

Painting and Decorating: Painting and decorating focuses on the finishing of rooms in residential and commercial buildings and uses a range of different application techniques to apply paint, wallpaper and specialised materials to create picture perfect finishes and effects. If you are interested in painting and decorating you will probably start out by completing the Ara pre-trade programme and then move straight into an apprentice position or even self employment depending on your level of experience.

Success in the construction industry comes from maintaining quality workmanship and being highly motivated. You need a strong work ethic and a cooperative attitude. At Ara we encourage your enthusiasm for construction careers, helping you develop the knowledge, attention to detail and practical skills you need to gain a firm foothold in the industry. We can help you find relevant work experience with building companies and assist with your applications to become an apprentice. We know the challenges you will encounter and the rewards you can expect from being well skilled and capable of getting the job done well from day one.

Our expert tutors are professionals in their trade with strong industry connections and the qualifications to take you through every aspect of your chosen certificate. They share their knowledge of theory, techniques and practical experience and equip you with the ability to start work capable, skilled and confident. With our focus on hands-on learning in practical settings, we apply theory alongside the teaching of new technologies and the safe handling of materials and tools.

Many Ara trades programmes include an apprenticeship. You can find out more here.