Overview
*Subject to NZQA approval.
This managed apprenticeship from NorthTec (formally iTAB) will get you qualified as a carpenter.
Want to become a qualified carpenter?
This managed apprenticeship is ideal if you are already employed in the construction industry but don’t yet have a formal building qualification. You’ll combine both theory and practical workshop knowledge, through attending block courses at NorthTec, with on-the-job training from your employer.
Looking for pre-trade training? Check out our Level 2 and Level 3 construction courses.
What you will learn
Theory units are delivered in small tutorial groups backed up with practical workshop experience. There will be time-tabled on-site visits and assessment of practical units.
Graduates of this qualification will be able to:
- Understand and apply a broad practical working knowledge of the fundamentals required in the carpentry trade in order to undertake all carpentry work, including; tools and equipment, materials, the legislative framework, regulatory requirements, drawings and specifications, building types, methods of construction, building science, building mathematics, and communication.
- Competently plan and carry out all aspects of establishing and maintaining construction sites including preparatory demolition and set out for buildings.
- Competently plan and carry out all aspects of the construction of; framed and solid foundations, and retaining walls.
- Competently plan and carry out all aspects of wall, roof, ceiling, column, post, beam and portal construction to form frames and structures of buildings.
- Competently plan and carry out all aspects of roof claddings, joinery and wall claddings.
- Competently plan and carry out all aspects of insulation, linings, finishing trim, joinery, hardware and sound control systems.
- Self-manage on-going learning and supervise the learning of others with a responsibility to maintain the professional standards of the construction industry.
- Operate competently and unsupervised to the required safety, technical, quality and productivity standards expected in a commercial environment.
Entry Requirements
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to understand follow, and respond to instructions given in English.
- be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
All applicants must:
- be at least 16 years old at the time the programme commences.
- be able to read, write, and communicate in English at a basic level.
- be physically able to complete the programme-specific outcomes.
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must have an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5; or an accepted international equivalence.
All applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years old at the time they commence the programme.
- Be able to read, write and communicate in English at a basic level.
- Be physically able to complete the programme specific outcomes.
In addition, applicants must:
- Be working in the construction industry as an employee or contractor.
- Be supervised by someone who is prepared to support the training.
- Enter into a training agreement with the employer and NorthTec which outlines the responsibilities of each party.
Applicants, for whom English is not their first language, must have an IELTS Academic score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5.5; or hold an accepted international equivalence.
Intakes & Applications
Dates & Bookings
Learn online with Open Polytechnic, with regional support by NorthTec:
- Access to a NorthTec facilities – computer/meeting room access, library and student support.
- Local workshops – optional workshops where you can be supported in your online learning with others studying the same programme as you. Located in Whangārei, Ngāwhā, Kerikeri, Kaitaia, & other campuses as demand requires.
Youth Guarantee Fund*
If you are aged 16 to 24, you could study for FREE as part of the government's Youth Guarantee fund. To qualify for the Youth Guarantee fund, you must meet the following criteria:
- Complete an application for a course that is covered by the Youth Guarantee fund.
- Be a NZ citizen or permanent resident.
- Be 16 to 24 years old at the time the course starts. Learners who are 15 years old and hold Ministry approved early leaving exemption from their school may also be eligible. This exemption must be in place before the course starts.
Priority places will be given to students who:
- have not yet achieved NCEA Level 1 or NCEA Level 2; or
- have completed a Level 1 or Level 2 qualification through a Youth Guarantee provision programme.
All free study is subject to funding confirmation. Proof of residency status is required. Programme entry criteria may apply. Eligibility for student allowances or student loans may vary. Contact Studylink for more information.
* All fees and study costs found on this website are indicative course fees only and exclude the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy and any course-related costs. The 2025 CSSF levy is $300 per full-time equivalent student (120 credits) for programmes level 3 and above.
Unless otherwise stated, prices are in New Zealand Dollars including GST. Prices that are not explicitly indicated as International are the domestic price and may differ for International students. For programmes longer than one academic year in duration, the fees quoted are for the first year. Final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. All fees and study costs are subject to confirmation, including zero fees courses.
Courses and programmes may be cancelled, postponed or have their content or configuration changed from time to time (including during the academic year) at the discretion of NorthTec. See our full Terms and conditions.
Additional Information
Employment Pathways
About Te Pūkenga
Following the Government’s announcement of its intention to disestablish Te Pūkenga | New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, please be assured that your programme of study or training will continue as planned while we work through the details of how this change will be implemented.
We are committed to ensuring that organisational changes that need to be made to meet the Government’s expectations do not impact the delivery of our programmes and training for our learners and employers.
If you need access to learner support services or have any concerns, please contact us.
