Carpentry

Our Carpentry programmes will provide you with the hands-on skills you need to start your career as a builder. With our workshop facilities, experienced teachers, industry connections and apprenticeship scheme, you’ll hit the ground running.

Three men are wooking a peice of timber in and one is measuring.

Carpentry involves the construction and maintenance of all kinds of builds from houses to 50-storey buildings, with job opportunities available throughout the country. 

A qualification in Carpentry from Otago Polytechnic will get you directly involved in the trade. You’ll learn the ins and outs of the craft, understand foundations, how to operate tools and equipment, and skills in health and safety.  
 
As part of your studies at Otago Polytechnic, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in building a house from the foundations up, which then gets auctioned off for charity each year. 

Carpentry qualifications

Construction

Get the foundational skills and knowledge of worksite safety and tools, providing you with a head-start for a future apprenticeship. Enjoy hands-on training in our workshops and building projects in a supportive environment without the pressure of a real-world worksite.

Duration

1 Year Full-time

Delivery

On campus

Location

Dunedin

Career potential

Building Apprentice, Labourer, Qualified Builder (with an apprenticeship)

Construction

If you are Māori or Pasifika, are 16-40 years old, and want to learn and earn in a practical, hands-on environment consider our He Toki pathway. With He Toki, you will be supported to gain a New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills (Level 3) in Carpentry but with a difference. You’ll get a unique and empowering learning experience that has te reo, tikaka and mentorship at the heart of everything.

Duration

1 Year Full-time

Delivery

On campus

Location

Dunedin

Career potential

Building Apprentice, Labourer, Qualified Builder (with an apprenticeship)

Construction

This is an apprenticeship qualification to become a qualified builder, and a pathway to becoming a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP). Work as an apprentice under the supervision of a qualified builder, learn from industry professionals and gain sought-after skills through a carpentry apprenticeship pathway.

Duration

4 Years Full-time

Delivery

Studied alongside an apprenticeship

Location

Dunedin, Cromwell

Career potential

Licensed Building Practitioner, Qualified Builder , Self-employed

Contact us

If you’re not sure what to study and would like some guidance, we’re here to help. Feel free to chat to us directly about any questions you may have.