CPC10120

Certificate I in Construction

Gain basic skills and increase your prospects for a career in a huge range of construction occupations with this entry-level course.

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STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Wide Bay Burnett North Queensland

WAYS TO STUDY On campus TAFE at School

NEXT INTAKE Start date: 20 Apr 2026 Duration: 10 weeks View all intakes

WHAT YOU'LL PAY

Concession

$950

Subsidised

$1,345

Full Fee

$4,875

TAFE at School Subsidised Fee

TAFE at School Full Fee

$3,905

Eligibility calculator

Course overview

Get started in your construction career with this entry-level course. This qualification will show employers you are ready for the next step. It will set you up with the foundation skills and knowledge to gain an apprenticeship in any construction trade.

According to the Australian Government's MySkills service, there is currently a shortage of skilled workers across a number occupations in the construction sector. That means you'll graduate with in-demand skills, with employers currently struggling to find qualified candidates to fill vacancies.

This course covers essential work health and safety requirements, and teaches you basic skills in the use of construction tools and materials, reading and interpreting plans, making measurements and calculations and communicating in the workplace. This hands-on qualification is built around a basic construction project that integrates these skills just like in the workplace. Our trade-qualified teachers are industry professionals who will show you what it's like to work in the construction industry and help you apply your skills.

Successful completion of this course gives you the skills you need to confidently seek an apprenticeship in a wide range of construction occupations such as bricklaying, carpentry, painting and decorating and wall and floor tiling. You may also look for employment as a trades assistant.

What can I do?

Construction Trades Worker
Construction Apprentice
Construction and Mining Labourer

Course outcome:

CPC10120 Certificate I in Construction

Employment outcomes

TAFE Queensland will continue to assist you, even after you've completed your qualification. Utilising our strong industry connections, we link students with employers looking to hire our highly-skilled graduates. Once you have completed your Certificate I in Construction, register your interest in an apprenticeship with our Find Your Apprentice service.

State-of-the-art training facilities

TAFE Queensland's multi-million dollar construction training facilities will provide you with an experience that is as close to real-life as possible. Our training spaces replicate both commercial and residential settings and allow you to work on full-sized projects to build your skills.

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 3 elective units from the list below.

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

UNIT CODE
CPCCCM1011

Undertake basic estimation and costing

UNIT CODE :
CPCCCM1011

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to prepare a basic estimate of material, labour and costs for a construction project.
UNIT NAME
Undertake basic estimation and costing

UNIT CODE
CPCCCM2004

Handle construction materials

UNIT CODE :
CPCCCM2004

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to safely handle and store commonly used construction materials manually or in preparation for mechanical handling.

Pre-requisite unit :
CPCCWHS2001
UNIT NAME
Handle construction materials

UNIT CODE
CPCCCM2005

Use construction tools and equipment

UNIT CODE :
CPCCCM2005

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to safely select and use basic construction tools and equipment.

Pre-requisite unit :
CPCCWHS2001
UNIT NAME
Use construction tools and equipment

UNIT CODE
CPCCOM1012

Work effectively and sustainably in the construction industry

UNIT CODE :
CPCCOM1012

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to work effectively and sustainably in the construction industry.
UNIT NAME
Work effectively and sustainably in the construction industry

UNIT CODE
CPCCOM1013

Plan and organise work

UNIT CODE :
CPCCOM1013

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to plan and organise basic work tasks on a construction site.
UNIT NAME
Plan and organise work

UNIT CODE
CPCCVE1011

Undertake a basic construction project

UNIT CODE :
CPCCVE1011

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to undertake a basic construction project using basic tools, equipment and materials.

Pre-requisite unit :
CPCCWHS2001
UNIT NAME
Undertake a basic construction project

UNIT CODE
CPCCWHS1001

Prepare to work safely in the construction industry

UNIT CODE :
CPCCWHS1001

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the mandatory work health and safety training required prior to undertaking construction work. The unit requires the person to demonstrate personal awareness and knowledge of health and safety legislative requirements in order to work safely and prevent injury or harm to self and others. It covers identifying and orally reporting common construction hazards, understanding basic risk control measures, and identifying procedures for responding to potential incidents and emergencies. It also covers correctly selecting and fitting common personal protective equipment (PPE) used for construction work.
UNIT NAME
Prepare to work safely in the construction industry

UNIT CODE
CPCCWHS2001

Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry

UNIT CODE :
CPCCWHS2001

Unit description :
This unit specifies the outcomes required to carry out work health and safety (WHS) requirements through safe work practices in all on- or off-site construction workplaces.
UNIT NAME
Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry

UNIT CODE
UNIT NAME

Gold Coast / Darling Downs and South West (including Ipswich)

Gold Coast / Darling Downs and South West (including Ipswich)

UNIT CODE
CPCCCM2006

Apply basic levelling procedures

UNIT CODE :
CPCCCM2006

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to carry out levelling in a single plane for the purpose of establishing correct and accurate set-out of building components. It includes the set-up, testing and use of levelling devices, and establishing and transferring heights using a range of levelling equipment. The unit supports workers in the construction industry who use a variety of common methods and equipment when working with others and as a member of a team. It applies to levelling work on residential and commercial work sites.

Pre-requisite unit :
CPCCWHS2001 , CPCCWHS2001 , CPCCWHS2001
UNIT NAME
Apply basic levelling procedures

UNIT CODE
CPCCOM1014

Conduct workplace communication

UNIT CODE :
CPCCOM1014

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to communicate effectively with other workers in a construction workplace environment.
UNIT NAME
Conduct workplace communication

UNIT CODE
CPCCOM1015

Carry out measurements and calculations

UNIT CODE :
CPCCOM1015

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to undertake basic measurements and calculations to determine task and material requirements in a construction work environment.
UNIT NAME
Carry out measurements and calculations

Greater Brisbane (excluding Ipswich) / Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay Burnett / North Queensland

Greater Brisbane (excluding Ipswich) / Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay Burnett / North Queensland

UNIT CODE
CPCCOM1014

Conduct workplace communication

UNIT CODE :
CPCCOM1014

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to communicate effectively with other workers in a construction workplace environment.
UNIT NAME
Conduct workplace communication

UNIT CODE
CPCCOM1015

Carry out measurements and calculations

UNIT CODE :
CPCCOM1015

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to undertake basic measurements and calculations to determine task and material requirements in a construction work environment.
UNIT NAME
Carry out measurements and calculations

UNIT CODE
CPCCOM2001

Read and interpret plans and specifications

UNIT CODE :
CPCCOM2001

Unit description :
This unit of competency specifies the skills and knowledge required to read and interpret plans and specifications relevant to construction operations at a basic level.

Pre-requisite unit :
CPCCWHS2001
UNIT NAME
Read and interpret plans and specifications

Note: For some courses, not all electives are available at all campuses.

Ways to study

Choose your study location

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

On Campus

You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Acacia Ridge	On Campus	13 Jul 2026	10 weeks	Full time 3 days per week Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday	Concession: $950 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,345 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,875 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Acacia Ridge On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 13 Jul 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 10 weeks The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 3 days per week Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $950 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,345 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,875 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Bundaberg	On Campus	20 Apr 2026	10 weeks	Full time 3 days per week Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday	Concession: $950 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,345 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,875 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. More Apply
Bundaberg On Campus Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 0% On Campus Time 100% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 20 Apr 2026 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 10 weeks The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Full time 3 days per week Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY Concession: $950 Fee concessions may apply to this subsidised course for eligible students. Learn more Subsidised: $1,345 There are a range of government funded courses available for eligible students. Learn more Full fee: $4,875 This is the total course fee. Read more about student loans and payment plans. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Choose your study location

On campus with some online

You’ll primarily learn face to face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces such as a classroom or simulated workplace environment. Some of your training may also take place via video or Zoom. Learn more
View comparison chart

CAMPUS	STUDY MODE	START DATE	DURATION	WORKLOAD	WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Cairns	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2027	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Subsidised Fee: $0 A government initiative covering some or all of course fees for eligible High School students also studying at TAFE. Learn more TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
Cairns On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2027 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Mount Isa	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2027	4 terms	Part time Block training	TAFE at School Subsidised Fee: $0 A government initiative covering some or all of course fees for eligible High School students also studying at TAFE. Learn more TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
Mount Isa On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2027 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time Block training The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Townsville - Trade Training Centre Bohle	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2027	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Subsidised Fee: $0 A government initiative covering some or all of course fees for eligible High School students also studying at TAFE. Learn more TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
Townsville - Trade Training Centre Bohle On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2027 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply
Whitsundays - Cannonvale	On campus with some online	27 Jan 2027	4 terms	Part time 1 day per week	TAFE at School Subsidised Fee: $0 A government initiative covering some or all of course fees for eligible High School students also studying at TAFE. Learn more TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. More Apply
Whitsundays - Cannonvale On campus with some online Online Time How much of the course will be delivered online. 20% On Campus Time 80% START DATE The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 27 Jan 2027 The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. DURATION The total length of time it takes to complete the course. 4 terms The total length of time it takes to complete the course. Workload The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. Part time 1 day per week The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week. WHAT YOU'LL PAY TAFE at School Full Fee: $3,905 This is the total course fee for High School students also studying at TAFE. Class format Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. Teacher-led, Scheduled Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time. VIRTUAL CLASS Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). No Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom). ASSESSMENT The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. Online, On-Campus The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement. TEACHER COMMS The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course. Less Ask a question Apply

Studying on campus is a great way to enjoy the benefits of face-to-face education in a way that is far removed from a typical school. No matter which campus you choose, you know that you will be learning in an adult environment where you will be respected and nurtured. Attend a campus to learn face-to-face with a teacher in one of our learning spaces; such as a classroom, workshop, laboratory or simulated environments, or interact with teachers using real-time video or web conference tools. Learn more

Courses delivered on campus may have a combination of online and classroom based learning. Students are expected to undertake additional personal study to complete the course requirements.

Choosing to study a TAFE at School course is a great way to get a vocational qualification while you’re still in high school. You also gain valuable credits towards your QCE, an apprenticeship, a diploma or university.
TAFE at School gives you a taste of what higher education is all about, makes you work-ready, and helps you build practical skills in an adult-learning environment. Successful completion of a TAFE at School qualification gives you direct entry into any of our diploma courses. Learn more

You must be a Year 11 or 12 student enrolled at a participating high school, in some instances Year 10 students may be considered. In addition, the duration of your TAFE at School course cannot be longer than your remaining high school studies. Speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor for more information.

Course placements are subject to availability.

QCE points: up to 3

Information is current at time of publishing, to confirm the QCE points for your course please speak to your high school guidance counsellor or careers advisor, or visit the Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority (QCAA) website.

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Certificate I in Construction (CPC10120)

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Certificate I in Construction

COURSE CODE: CPC10120

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help.

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more

Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more

Entry requirements

Skills check

You will be invited to complete a Skills Check following your application submission, before enrolling to your studies. This helps you to decide if your course is right for you and allows us to understand your current abilities in English, Maths, as well as using Digital technology.

The recommended benchmark levels for this course are 2 in English, 2 in Maths and 2 in Digital Technology.

Access and instructions on how to complete the Skills Check will be emailed to you once you have submitted your application.

Read the Skills Check FAQs.

Resources required

You are responsible for meeting the minimum occupational health and safety requirements in practical classes.
This includes the use of:

safety glasses
protective footwear with safety toe cap and non-slip soles to AS2210
leather gloves to AS2161
hair protection (or hat if long hair)
hearing protection
disposable dust masks
You should also wear 100% cotton drill industry-standard clothing.

If you fail to meet these minimum standards of dress, you will not be permitted entry into practical classes.

You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network.

You are also required to have access to and bring personal stationery (pens, pencil, eraser, etc.), a USB (minimum 8GB), a calculator, and tools/equipment including a folding metre ruler (carpenter) and a 8m tape measure.

Placement

Work experience is an integral part of this course and provides you with the opportunity to further your learning while undertaking authentic industry tasks, as well as forming career-building relationships within your field of study. We recommend that all students undertake work experience, you will be provided more information in class.

Transition statement

This qualification has been replaced by CPC10126 Certificate I in Construction as of 3 February 2026. A transition period applies to enable current students to complete their study. The transition period finishes on 2 February 2027. Students who have not fully completed this qualification prior to this date will be transitioned into the replacement qualification.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online.

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees, available subsidies, and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more

Related courses

Certificate III in Carpentry

Progress your career in the construction industry with this course. Completion of this carpentry qualification gives you the opportunity to become a recognised tradesperson.

Careers

Carpenter and Joiner

Full Time : 2 years

Next Start : 13 Jul 2026

Certificate IV in Building and Construction

Take your building business to the next level by completing this qualification. This course is perfect for builders or owners of small to medium-sized building businesses.

Careers

Builder
Construction Supervisor
Construction Managers
Site Manager
Site Supervisor

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Certificate I in Construction

Course overview

What can I do?

Course outcome:

Employment outcomes

State-of-the-art training facilities

Core units

Elective units

Acacia Ridge

Bundaberg

Cairns

Mount Isa

Townsville - Trade Training Centre Bohle

Whitsundays - Cannonvale

Download Brochure

Ask a question

Certificate I in Construction

Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

Payment plan

Upfront payment

Entry requirements

Skills check

Resources required

Placement

Transition statement

Assessment methods

Pathways

University pathways

How to apply

Direct application

Course disclaimer

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Related courses

Certificate III in Carpentry

Careers

Certificate IV in Building and Construction

Careers