Building Employment Futures in the Construction Industry

EDC and NECA team up to help you build a career in Construction. 

If you're looking to start your career in the Construction industry, EDC can help.

We have two brand new introductory courses available, fully funded (subject to eligibility), to kick-start your career. 

Course 1 (NEET) is for anyone aged 19 - 25.

Course 2 (Pre-employment) is for anyone aged 26 and over. 

NEET Programme 

Who is this for? 

Ages: 19–25 

Status: NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) 

Programme Duration 

  •  3 days per week for 6 weeks  

Structure: 

  • Classroom learning
  • Practical workshop experience
  • Work experience and site visits with local employers 

What You’ll Achieve 

Industry-recognised qualifications: 

  • NOCN Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment
  • NOCN Level 1 Award in Basic Construction Skills
  • NOCN Entry Level 3 Award in Preparing for Further Learning or Employment (Employability) 

Additional Certifications: 

  • CSCS Card (penultimate week)
  • 1 Site Ticket (e.g. abrasive wheels, working at height) 

Embedded Skills: 

  • English, Maths and Digital Skills woven throughout the programme 

Support & Guidance 

  • Dedicated key worker support (via Housing Associations)
  • Learning & Learner Support to help you succeed
  • Progression advice for employment or further training 

Employer Partnerships 

Why Join? 

  • Gain construction skills aligned with local employer needs
  • Achieve essential qualifications for entry into the construction industry
  • Build confidence and employability skills for your future career 

 

Pre Employment Programme

Who is this for?

Ages: 26 plus

  • Designed for those furthest from the construction job market, aiming to become job-ready for construction roles.

Duration

  • 3 days per week over 6 weeks

Structure: 

  • Classroom learning, Workshop-based practical skills
  • Skills tailored to local employer needs 

What you'll achieve

Regulated Qualifications:

  • NOCN Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment
  • NOCN Level 1 Award in Basic Construction Skills
  • NOCN Entry Level 3 Award in Preparing for Further Learning or Employment (Employability)

Additional Skills & Certifications:

  • English, Maths, and Digital Skills (embedded throughout)
  • CSCS Card (issued in penultimate week)
  • Up to 4 work-ready tickets based on local job needs (e.g., asbestos awareness, abrasive wheels, working at heights)
  • Site Visits & Guest Speakers for real-world exposure

Support Services:

  • Learning & Learner Support
  • PPE and tools provided
  • Guidance for progression into employment or further training

Employers Partnerships

Why join?

  • Industry-recognised qualifications
  • CSCS card and multiple work-ready tickets
  • Construction skills aligned with employer demand
  • Enhanced employability through literacy, numeracy and digital skills
  • Real-world exposure via site visits and guest speakers

Our team are happy to help you navigate which course is right for you, simply email us at: business@eastdurham.ac.uk and we will help you get started. 

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