As a student or practitioner in the woodworking profession, you can aim no higher than the standards set by the Institute of Carpenters.

It is the only organisation to offer annual exams in practical and theoretical woodworking skills, and successful candidates will be associated with the prestige and high quality skills the Institute of Carpenters is renowned for.

The Institute offers a structured route that you can follow throughout your career, from Foundation Certificate through to Fellowship level.

Examinations are regularly updated to ensure they meet current standards in materials and technology as well as management and supervisory skills.

By achieving success in these examinations, you will have gained independent recognition from a highly respected body of your superior craftsmanship in your chosen vocation. You will gain a head start in your career and continue to stand out from the crowd as you progress in your profession.

Schools and colleges

Schools and colleges can receive funding for running courses that lead to the Institute of Carpenters’ examinations.

Secondary schools can incorporate the Foundation Certificate into their curriculum, and it can also be taken by students studying in colleges and training centres. The benefits of offering the Institute of Carpenters’ Foundation Certificate include:

• Excellent opportunity to promote the crafts of carpentry and joinery
• The Certificate complements and supports existing craft courses including the new GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualification) for 16+ students.
• The course provides an introductory insight into possible wood-based careers

In addition, students will achieve a respected qualification from a prestigious awarding body, plus the possibility of moving on to take further examinations at the following levels:

• Intermediate
• Licentiate (LIOC)
• Member (MIOC)
• Fellowship (FIOC)

Working in partnership for your benefit

The Institute of Carpenters has built up close links with training boards, technical research bodies and the trading standards authorities including:

• Timber Research and Development Association (TRADA)
• Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)
• British Standards Institute (BSI)
• Building Research Establishment (BRE)the City and Guilds of London Institute
• Health & Safety Executive (HSE).

Access to help or information from these or any other relevant institutions can be easily arranged through the Institute.