A carpenter is a skilled person who works with wood to build and repair things. They might build the wooden frameworks of houses, install doors and windows, create staircases, or even craft beautiful pieces of furniture. It's a hands-on job where you use lots of different tools, from hammers and saws to electric drills and spirit levels. Carpenters need to be good at maths for measuring and cutting accurately, and they also need to be able to read plans and drawings. You could be working indoors or outdoors, on a big building site or in a small workshop, and it can be really satisfying to see something you've built come to life! This job involves a lot of problem-solving and attention to detail. You'll learn about different types of wood and how to work with them, making sure everything is strong, safe, and looks good. Sometimes you might be part of a bigger team, working alongside other builders, electricians, and plumbers. Other times, you might be working on your own project, like building custom shelves for someone's home. It's a career that combines practical skills with creativity, and there's always something new to learn.
An experienced carpenter in the UK can expect to earn between 25,000 and 35,000 pounds per year, though this can vary based on location and specialisation.
As an apprentice, you might start on around 15,000 to 20,000 pounds per year, learning on the job while studying.
There are always opportunities for skilled carpenters across the UK, with many jobs being advertised for new construction, renovations, and specialist joinery work.
Imagine making beautiful, bespoke furniture like wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, or display units. You'd use your carpentry skills to create finely crafted pieces.
If you love theatre or events, you could build amazing sets for plays, concerts, or TV shows. This combines carpentry with creativity to bring stories to life.
Fancy working with wood to create something that floats? You could learn to build or repair wooden boats, from small dinghies to grand yachts. It's a very skilled and rewarding craft.
Get a feel for working with wood by joining a design and technology class at school, or trying out simple projects at home.
Many schools offer 'DT' (Design & Technology) where you can learn to use basic tools safely and create small wooden items. At home, with adult supervision, you could try building a birdhouse, a small shelf, or even just sanding and painting some wood to understand how it feels and works.
There are lots of videos and books that show what carpenters do and how they do it. This can give you a better idea if it's something you'd enjoy.
Look for videos online showing carpenters building houses, making furniture, or fitting kitchens. You can also find books in the library about different types of carpentry, like 'rough carpentry' (for building structures) and 'finish carpentry' (for finer details). This will help you learn about different tools and techniques.
If you know someone who is a carpenter, ask them about their job. They can give you real-life insights into what it's like.
Ask them what they enjoy most about their job, what challenges they face, and what advice they would give to someone wanting to become a carpenter. You might even be able to visit them at work (with proper safety precautions and adult permission) to see what they do firsthand.
Maths is important for measuring and calculating, and practical subjects like Design & Technology are super helpful for hands-on skills.
Good maths skills will help you accurately measure wood, calculate angles for cuts, and estimate materials needed. Design & Technology will give you experience with tools, materials, and understanding how things are put together. These subjects build a strong foundation for a carpentry career.
After you leave school, you can either go to college to learn carpentry skills or start an apprenticeship where you learn on the job.
A college course (like a BTEC or NVQ in Carpentry and Joinery) will teach you the theory and practical skills in a workshop setting. An apprenticeship combines working for a carpentry company and earning a wage with attending college part-time to gain qualifications. Both are excellent paths to becoming a qualified carpenter.
No matter what tools you use, always learn how to use them safely to prevent accidents.
Whether it's a hand saw, a drill, or even just a hammer, understanding how to use tools correctly and safely is crucial. Always wear appropriate safety gear like goggles and gloves, and make sure an adult supervises you when using power tools or sharp hand tools.
Getting some real-world experience, even if it's just helping out, can teach you a lot and look great on your CV.
During college or your apprenticeship, look for opportunities for work experience. This could be helping out on a building site (under supervision), assisting a local carpenter, or volunteering for community projects that involve woodworking. This hands-on experience is invaluable and helps you build a network of contacts.
Once you have your qualifications from college or your apprenticeship, you'll be ready to apply for jobs as a carpenter.
With your NVQ, BTEC, or apprenticeship certificate, you can start applying for entry-level carpenter positions. Look for jobs with construction companies, joinery firms, or even smaller independent builders. Your practical skills and any work experience you've gained will be a big advantage.
Carpentry has many different areas, so you can keep learning new skills and choose to specialise in something you really enjoy.
You could specialise in 'roofing carpentry', 'cabinet making', 'set building' for theatre, or 'restoration' of old buildings. Many carpenters also become self-employed. Continual learning, perhaps through advanced courses or workshops, will keep your skills sharp and open up new opportunities.
A joiner specialises in making and fitting wooden items like doors, windows, staircases, and cabinets, often working in a workshop before installing them.
A cabinet maker designs and builds bespoke wooden furniture, such as cupboards, wardrobes, and display cases, requiring very fine craftsmanship.
A roofer works on the roofs of buildings, often including the wooden supports (trusses) that a carpenter might have built, as well as installing tiles or slates.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Carpenter. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
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You can get into this job through:
You could take a college course like:
Courses like these would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need to find a trainee position with a company.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
You could also do a Wood Product Manufacturing Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship, producing goods used in the furniture making and construction industries.
You can apply for a foundation apprenticeship if you're aged 16 to 21.
If you're aged 22 to 24, you can apply if you:
You'll usually need:
If you're thinking of changing career to carpentry, look out for short or part-time 'taster' courses at your local college. These are designed to help you find out if carpentry is for you.
You can find out more about becoming a carpenter from Go Construct and House Building Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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