Foundation Skills in Carpentry & Fabrication Level 2
Establish your goals, lock in your pathway, and build your carpentry skills with the practical Foundation Skills in Carpentry & Fabrication programme.
Work with a team on exciting construction projects, improve your literacy and numeracy, and boost your industry knowledge with plenty of support from our navigator team along the way.
This programme is designed to introduce students to the basics of carpentry and fabrication.
This hands-on programme focuses on essential industry practices, including workplace safety, effective communication, and interpreting simple construction plans.
Throughout the course, students engage in practical projects that simulate real-world scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared for entry-level roles or further training in carpentry and fabrication.
This programme covers two main areas of learning:
- Pathways and Goals (35 credits): This part of the course helps students explore career options in carpentry and fabrication. It focuses on setting personal learning goals, understanding industry expectations, and preparing for the next steps in work or further study.
- Projects (25 credits): In this course, students apply their skills to practical carpentry and fabrication projects. They gain hands-on experience using tools and materials, following construction plans, and completing real-world tasks that simulate industry work.
This course is only available to students who are eligible to study for free.
To find out more about whether you are eligible to study free, complete our Study For Free Quiz
After finishing this course, graduates will have the foundational skills necessary to pursue entry-level positions in the construction trades sector, specifically within carpentry and fabrication.
Some students may choose to continue their studies and complete a level 3 certificate, such as the Construction Trade Skills (Carpentry) Level 3
You will learn
In this course, you’ll learn how to find and understand important information related to construction and fabrication. You’ll develop critical thinking skills, allowing you to decide whether the information you find is useful and relevant to your work.
Communication is an important part of any trade, so you’ll practice presenting your research in a clear and professional way.
To help you plan for the future, you’ll set career goals and explore different pathways in the industry.
You’ll also learn about trends in the New Zealand construction industry and explore how your own culture connects to design. As you work on projects like cabinetry, stools, and café tables, you’ll consider ways to incorporate your own design ideas and cultural influences.
While completing projects, you’ll apply problem-solving and literacy skills to tackle challenges and complete tasks successfully.
Studying at OCA
At OCA, you’ll be supported every step of the way with our Whānau Ora support, including access to services at The Fono.
Our culturally inclusive and welcoming environment ensures you feel comfortable while learning and growing. You’ll also receive ongoing mentoring, even after you start working.
Learning at OCA is hands-on and designed to match your learning style.
This project-based approach includes workshop practice, theory sessions, and practical projects to help you build confidence. You’ll work in groups, get plenty of feedback, and receive one-on-one support from experienced tutors who know their industry inside out.

This was a second chance for me to graduate.
I wanted to do something with my life instead of just sitting at home doing nothing.