OSTC Building and Construction (Level 3)
Construction
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A hands-on, practical building and construction programme for secondary students, offering real project experience working as a team on a house or building, and preparing for construction or allied trades careers.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 2 locations
Core skills this course teaches
Build and complete a construction project
Experience the full process of constructing a house or building as part of a team.
Use hand and power tools safely and effectively
Demonstrate the correct and safe usage of standard construction tools and equipment.
Understand and apply building materials knowledge
Select and use appropriate materials for construction projects, understanding their properties and suitability.
What You're Signing Up For
OSTC Building and Construction (Level 3) is designed for secondary school students seeking practical skills for a career in building or construction. Delivered through the Otago Secondary Tertiary College, this course lets students take part in constructing a building from start to finish — including using tools, materials knowledge, site safety, and teamwork. The coursework is tailored to New Zealand Certificate in Building, Construction and Allied Trades Skills (Level 3) standards, and is fully funded for most students. Learners study two days per week at either Balclutha or Cromwell campus, develop key trade skills, and can progress to further specialist construction study or apprenticeships.
Course Content
- Team construction of a building from start to finish
- Correct use of hand and power tools
- Materials selection and knowledge for building projects
- Building site safety practices and health and safety culture
- Project documentation development
- Collaborative communication and teamwork
- Measuring and calculating for building projects
- Selection, use, and maintenance of tools and machinery
- Scheduling and integrating allied trades into construction projects
- Unit standards completed: 29684, 29677, 29678, 29679, 29680, 29681, 29682, 29683
What you need to know first
Must be currently enrolled at a secondary school and apply via your school careers advisor.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Construction
Future employment opportunities might be
Builder/Carpenter
Stonemason
Construction Manager
Quantity Surveyor
Architectural Draughtsperson
Apprenticeship in building and construction
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.