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Construction

Construction - Road and Rail Operations NPA

Campus Granton Campus

Qualification SCQF Level 5

Study mode Full time

Start date Aug 2026

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Course overview

This course is designed for students who want to expand their knowledge of construction, including general building, road maintenance and railway engineering. You will gain the NPA 5 Highways Maintenance - Kerbs and Channels award accredited through SQA.

This course offers practical, transferable skills and theoretical knowledge of the Construction Industry to help you find an apprenticeship or further study with us at the college.

What you will learn

  • Roadbuilding - Lay Kerbs and Channels
  • Roadbuilding - Search for Underground Services
  • Roadbuilding - Sign, Light and Guard the Work Area
  • Roadbuilding - Set Out Secondary Dimensional Work Controls
  • Roadbuilding - Reinstate Excavation and Highways Surfaces
  • Railway Engineering - Carry Out Corrective Manual Adjustments to Permanent Way Assets
  • Railway Engineering - Undertake Replacement of Permanent Way Assets and Components
  • Railway Engineering - Undertake routine manual maintenance of the permanent way
  • Operate a Powered Tool and Equipment
  • Workplace Health, Safety and Welfare

How the course is assessed

  • This hands-on course will be assessed through practical activity and some classroom theory.

Number of days per week

  • 3 Days full days per week. 

Entry requirements

  • A minimum of National 4 in Mathematics.

Or:

Successful completion, with good attendance from one of the following Edinburgh College Construction Courses

  • Intro to Construction.
  • NPA Construction Crafts level 4.
  • NPA Construction Skills level 5.

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

  • Candidates who meet the entry requirements will be invited in for an interview before the end of the current academic term.
  • In your personal statement, please clearly explain why you are interested and what motivates you to apply for this course.
  • Candidates will be required to complete a numeracy diagnostic assessment during the interview; this will form part of the selection process. (Please advise in your personal statement, any additional support needs for this test)

English Proficiency Requirements

IELTS 5.5

Progression and Articulation Routes

  • This course provides the underpinning skills and knowledge to candidates hoping to gain an apprenticeship in Construction.
  • Progression route may be available upon successful completion to a Level 5 Introduction to Building Services Course.

Career options

  • Railway Engineer
  • Highways operative
  • Civil Engineer
  • An apprentice in a craft area

Study Options

Campus Study mode Start date
Granton Campus Full time 24/08/26

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