New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3), Carpentry Strand
Construction
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Gain practical carpentry and construction skills to start your career in the construction industry. This Level 3 certificate prepares you for entry-level and apprenticeship roles in carpentry with hands-on experience including building a house or similar structure.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 4 locations
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Gain entry-level skills in carpentry and construction
Apply knowledge of safety, terminology, and practical skills required for the construction trades with an emphasis on carpentry.
Work as part of a construction team
Develop teamwork and collaborative skills essential for building projects, including contributing to house or similar structure builds.
Demonstrate understanding of workplace safety and practices
Apply safety frameworks and good practices in construction settings.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3), Carpentry Strand at Toi Ohomai gives you valuable skills for entering the construction industry, specifically in carpentry. The programme includes a carpentry focus, trips to construction sites, visits from industry experts, and hands-on projects such as team-based house building. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to seek employment as labourers or apprentices in the construction sector or continue study towards a Level 4 Carpentry qualification.
Course Content
- Workplace Safety Frameworks and Practices
- Skills for Construction Trades
- Carpentry Terminology and Concepts
- Building Technology and Properties
- Construction and Installation Processes and Techniques
- Carpentry Project Preliminaries
- Carpentry Project Foundations and Support Structures
- Carpentry Project Frames, Structures and Exterior Envelope
- Carpentry Project Interior Linings and Finishing
- Safety, tools, materials, construction terminology, construction tasks and projects, processes, and techniques
What you need to know first
Open entry if the campus delegated authority is satisfied the applicant can complete the course requirements.
Must be physically capable of meeting the course requirements.
Applicants for whom English, te reo Māori or New Zealand Sign Language is not a first language must provide evidence of English language proficiency.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Construction
Building
Carpentry
Future employment opportunities might be
Labourer within the construction industry
Apprentice carpenter
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Programmes span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.