Construction

Exam Board: Eduqas

Unit 1

The construction industry is large and very diverse. This unit provides an appropriate foundation which reflects this size and diversity. Learners are required to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of eight specified areas of content, all of which are critical to the industry.

This unit introduces learners to the construction sector and the type of professional and trade roles and activity that is undertaken. The learner will explore the different types of buildings and structures that the built environment forms. Sustainability and the impact of the built environment on the local community is explored along with reduction measures that can be employed.

Areas of content 1.1 The sector 1.2 The built environment life cycle 1.3 Types of building and structure 1.4 Technologies and materials 1.5 Building structures and forms 1.6 Sustainable construction methods 1.7 Trades, employment and careers 1.8 Health and safety

Unit 3

The realisation of construction projects requires the services of many construction specialists. A significant number of these specialists will be engaged in what are often referred to as ‘trades’ (see unit. This units requires learners to complete a construction project which focuses on the preparation and completion of three realistic trade-based tasks.

Areas of content 3.1 Interpreting technical sources of information 3.2 Planning and organising work 3.3 Identifying resource requirements 3.4 Calculating the materials required 3.5 Writing and setting success criteria 3.6 Prepare for construction tasks 3.7 Carrying out techniques 3.8 Removing and disposing of materials 3.9 Working practices that promote health and safety 3.10 Evaluating construction tasks

Work for this unit is based on Bricklaying, Carpentry and Roofing skills.

The construction sector is expansive, comprising 10% of the UK economy. However, only a third of employers in the construction sector believe that there is a talent pool sufficient to meet the industry’s needs. This is despite construction being considered an increasingly attractive industry to young people, and despite there being more and more young people who are actively considering a career in construction. There are many employment opportunities in the construction industry and the demand for workers is not currently being met; in 2018, more than two fifths of employers said that they had tried to recruit skilled workers and of those, nearly half had difficulties filling the positions. The wide and diverse range of careers in construction include manual and professional occupations, and many require further education and training either through apprenticeships or further and higher education

Assessment

Unit 1 - Introduction to the Built Environment. 40% External Examination

Unit 3 - Constructing the Built Environment. 60% Coursework. Work for this unit is based on Bricklaying, Carpentry and Roofing skills.