NCEA Level 1 Construction and Allied Trade Skills (BCATS)
L1BCAT Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mr A. Bisschops.
Recommended Prior LearningIt would be an advantage to have a keen interest in learning with a passion towards achieving a high standard of craftsmanship. Organisational skills are required for planning and problem solving. Positive attitude towards meeting time constraints and quality control check points. Ability to be self-reflective.
This is a course for students to extend their talents and technical understandings. The Level 1 NCEA course has flexibility to be tailored to individual students’ needs, interests and future directions, and can include a wide range of technical skills including: Laminating; Furniture Making; Joinery; Building and Construction; working from plans and creating cutting lists; sequencing of operations; keeping a daily diary.
Students must complete all theory work online.
Unfortunately, workshop space availability means that students cannot take this course in conjunction with Level 1 Manufacturing Engineering. Students have the opportunity to pick that up in addition in Year 12, provided that they have been able to demonstrate solid work habits and ethics.
Learning Areas:
Assessment Information
To succeed you must achieve the following aspects of this course every period:
• Projects
• Safety
• Cleaning
• Diary (Photos with annotated notes)
• Theory
Engagement/work completion data is used as additional information contributing to course grade.
NCEA Level 2 Construction and Allied Trade Skills
🛠️ Career Pathways from BCATS and BCITO Courses
Students who engage in BCATS (Building and Construction Allied Trade Skills) and BCITO (Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation) courses are setting themselves up for a wide range of practical, hands-on careers in the construction and trades industries. These pathways can include:
🔨 Trades and Apprenticeships
Carpenter
Joiner
Furniture Maker
Cabinet Maker
Builder (Residential or Commercial)
Shopfitter
Formworker
Scaffolder
Roofing Installer
These roles often begin with apprenticeships, many of which are supported by BCITO, offering structured on-the-job training and qualifications.
🧰 Specialist Construction Roles
Construction Site Manager
Quantity Surveyor (with further study)
Project Manager (Construction)
Health and Safety Officer
Building Inspector
These roles may require further education or experience but build directly on the foundational skills learned in BCATS.
🪚 Manufacturing and Fabrication
Wood Machinist
Manufacturing Technician
Product Assembler
Custom Furniture Designer
These careers combine technical craftsmanship with design and production skills.
🏗️ Pathways to Further Study
NCEA Level 2 and 3 BCATS
Pre-trade courses at polytechnics or training institutes
Diplomas in Construction, Architecture, or Engineering
Bachelor’s degrees in Building Science or Construction Management
These academic pathways can lead to higher-level roles in the industry or open doors to international opportunities.
💼 Entrepreneurship and Business
With experience, students may start their own:
Construction or Renovation Business
Furniture Making Workshop
Trade Services Company
• Material to make a Drawer and Mirror unit / Folding Table / Folding Chair
| Description | Type | Value |
|---|---|---|
| • Material costs to make a Drawer and Mirror unit / Folding Table / Folding Chair | Contribution | $395.00 |
| $395.00 | ||