HSDC is excited to announce a significant expansion of construction courses at South Downs Campus, strengthening the College’s role in meeting urgent regional and national skills needs whilst preparing learners for successful careers in the built environment. The Construction Skills Level 1 Extended Certificate will be available at South Downs from September 2026, with applications open now. This course will also be available at Alton College, ensuring access to high-quality training across Hampshire.
This expanded and localised provision will be delivered through modern, industry-standard workshops designed to reflect real construction environments and current professional practice. Learners will be able to develop hands-on competence in core trades, alongside essential knowledge in health and safety, sustainability, digital technologies and modern methods of construction.
These courses will display clear progression pathways from Level 1 to Level 2 and beyond, as well as synergy with dynamic T Level qualifications. The curriculum has also been developed with employer partners, ensuring that what students learn aligns with current recruitment requirements and workplace expectations
Employer involvement with these new courses is integral, with students being able to benefit from employer-led projects, site visits, specialist equipment, mentoring and work placements. By giving students this valuable exposure to real-world conditions, HSDC ensures that they develop both the technical expertise and interpersonal confidence to thrive in long-term careers.
Commenting on these new courses, Kurt Hintz, HSDC’s Interim Principal and CEO, said:
“In construction, the UK faces a significant shortage of technical skills and qualifications, a shortage that these brand new courses at Alton College and South Downs can fill. At HSDC, we are proud to play our part in meeting the needs of employers, ensuring that both the local and national economy continue to thrive.”
The investment in construction facilities and capacity demonstrates HSDC’s confidence and resilience, with the College delivering growth that is both sustainable and economically relevant.
By bringing high-quality construction training closer to local communities, HSDC is widening participation, reducing travel barriers and supporting progression into skilled employment. Construction at HSDC is not theoretical, it is purposeful, employer-driven and designed to power the region’s future workforce.
Find out more and apply for the Multi-Skills Construction courses here: https://www.hsdc.ac.uk/course-finder/?learning_type=&keyword=&campus=-1&study_type=&interest=45323