Cymraeg

Heritage Carpentry - Training and Qualifications

Tywi Centre

March 2027
Funding available to eligible companies

NVQ Level 3 Heritage Carpentry Master Traditional Skills. Gain a Nationally Recognised Qualification.

Whether you’re already working as a modern carpenter or you’re involved in carpentry and joinery repairs and want to specialise in historic buildings, the NVQ Level 3 in Heritage Carpentry will help you elevate your craft. You’ll learn from industry experts, develop hands‑on experience with traditional materials and conservation techniques, and work towards the qualification recognised as the benchmark for professional heritage carpenters.

Delivered by the Tywi Centre, a CITB Approved Training Organisation, this programme blends specialist practical training with workplace assessment. You’ll gain the knowledge, confidence and credentials needed to work on some of the UK’s most significant historic buildings.

Please complete the form at the bottom of this page if you would like to apply for a place on this course. 

NVQ3 Heritage Carpentry by Tywi Centre

Why Choose This Course?

The NVQ Level 3 in Heritage Carpentry is a nationally recognised qualification designed for experienced carpenter/ joiners working on traditional and historic buildings. 

You'll Benefit From:

  • Nationally recognised NVQ Level 3 qualification
  • Specialist heritage carpentry and joinery training
  • Practical experience with timber repair projects
  • Workplace-based assessment on real conservation projects
  • Flexible training and assessment routes
  • CITB funding opportunities for eligible learners and employers

Who Is It For?

This course is ideal for:

  • Carpenters/ Joiners looking to develop heritage skills
  • Individuals involved in the repair and conservation of historic buildings
  • Learners with an NVQ Level 2 or significant site experience in carpentry 

Not sure if you're ready? An informal initial assessment can be arranged with one of our assessors to discuss your experience and suitability. 

Flexible Routes to Qualification

Choose the option that works best for you:

Training Only

Perfect if you want to develop specialist heritage skills without undertaking assessment.

Assessment Only (OSAT)

For experienced professionals who already have the skills and simply need the qualification.

Training and Assessment

Complete both elements and work towards achieving your full NVQ Level 3 qualification.

Train Now, Assess Later

Build your skills and confidence first, then complete assessment when you're ready. 

Course Duration

Training is delivered over four weeks throughout the year, typically:

  • Week 1: March
  • Week 2: April
  • Week 3: June
  • Week 4: September

Final dates will be confirmed before each programme starts. 

What will you learn?

  • L3 Award in Repair & Maintenance of Traditional (pre 1919) Buildings
  • Architectural Recognition
  • Bench Joinery- workshop and on site
  • Repairs to traditional heavy timber framework
  • Recognition of defects- cause and effect
  • Conservation principles and law
  • Best practice in conserving or restoring timber
  • Understanding and selecting materials

More details can be found in the brochure above.

Assessment

How the NVQ Level 3 Assessment Works

1. You do your normal job

  • The NVQ3 assessment is based on the work that you do on site.
  • You will need to evidence your knowledge and skills while carrying out real heritage masonry work.

2. Your assessor will visit you

  • The assessor will watch you work.
  • They may ask questions about what you are doing and why.
  • They will check that you are working safely and to the required standard.

3. You collect evidence You will need to gather evidence of your work, such as:

  • Photographs
  • Job sheets and work records
  • Drawings and plans
  • Risk assessments
  • Witness statements from supervisors or colleagues

4. You build a portfolio

  • All of your evidence is put into a portfolio.
  • The portfolio shows that you meet the NVQ requirements.
  • It must be kept up to date throughout the qualification.

5. You must be committed

  • The NVQ requires time and effort from the learner.
  • You are responsible for collecting evidence and completing any required paperwork.
  • Regular communication with your assessor is important.
  • Leaving evidence until the last minute can make the process much harder.

Important to Remember

The NVQ Level 3 is not just about being good at your job. You must also provide enough evidence to prove your skills and knowledge. Learners who regularly collect evidence and stay organised are more likely to complete the qualification successfully and on time.

Funding Available

If you're employed by a CITB-registered company, you may be eligible for:

  • Full training and assessment funding
  • Travel and accommodation support
  • Short course grants
  • Qualification completion grants 

Flexible payment options are also available for self-funded learners. 

Train with Heritage Specialists

The Tywi Centre is recognised nationally for delivering high-quality heritage construction training. Our experienced tutors are passionate about preserving traditional building skills and supporting the next generation of heritage craftspeople. 

Ready to build your future in heritage construction?

Please complete the form below if you would like to apply for a place on this course. 

Or contact the Tywi Centre today to discuss your eligibility and reserve your place on the next NVQ Level 3 Heritage Masonry programme. 

To register your interest on this course, please complete the following form. A member of the team will be in touch with further information once we receive your form.