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Award in DIY for Beginners

adult learner smiling at camera in the workshop.

Course overview


The Award in DIY for Beginners at EKC Broadstairs College is a part-time
course designed for adults who want to gain practical skills and confidence
tackling everyday jobs around the home. Whether you’re looking to improve your
abilities, pursue a personal interest, or explore a new hobby, this course is
tailored to fit around your busy life and commitments.


You will learn a broad range of basic construction and maintenance techniques
across key trades, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation and
painting and decorating. Our expert tutors will guide you each step of the way,
helping you understand how to use common tools and equipment safely and
effectively.


The course covers practical tasks such as fitting shelves and kitchen units,
changing door locks and handles, replacing tap washers, unblocking pipes, wiring
plugs, updating light sockets and switches, and learning how consumer units
work. You will also practise filling holes and carrying out essential decorating
tasks to enhance your home.


Designed especially for adult learners, this part-time short programme gives
you the flexibility to study alongside your work, family or other
responsibilities. It’s a supportive environment where you can build real skills
you can use straight away at home or as a stepping stone to other part-time
courses at the college.

Course information

You will learn basic skills in carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, and painting and decorating. You will be trained in how to use the different tools for these four trades.

Things you will learn include:

  • How to fit a shelf
  • Building kitchen units
  • Changing door locks and handles
  • Changing tap washers
  • Basic plumbing fitting, e.g. unblocking waste pipes
  • Wiring a plug
  • Changing light sockets and switches
  • Learning about consumer units
  • Learning how to fill holes and general decorating