OCN NI Level 5 Extended Certificate in Retrofitting Domestic Properties

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

• Level 3 Qualification in a Construction, Architecture or Mechanical Electrical Area
• An equivalent or higher in an approved alternative qualification
• Demonstrate 5 years' experience working in a related Industry

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE admissions process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

• Unit 001: Demonstrate an Understanding of Domestic Deep Energy Retrofit
• Unit 002: Evaluate existing domestic buildings for Retrofitting.
• Unit 003: Determine Thermal Efficiency & Moisture Risks within Retrofit Buildings
• Unit 004: Improvement Options for Retrofit Buildings
• Unit 005: Air Tightness and Ventilation in Retrofit Buildings
• Unit 006: Upgrading Insulation of Roofs and Floors during Retrofit
• Unit 007: Reducing the thermal transmittance of Walls and Windows
• Unit 008: Upgrading the Mechanical and Electrical Services during Retrofit. 
• Unit 009: Introducing renewable energy systems and storage to Retrofit Projects
• Unit 010: Retrofit Quality Assurance and Post Retrofit Monitoring

This course is designed to allow the learner to work at their own pace, timeframe, and space, it will be a blended learning environment with an online platform having virtual classrooms and tutorial support sessions through Teams.

Assessment will be via online completion and drop in methods where your allocated lecturer/assessor will then feedback on your learning outcomes.

Successful completion of the OCN NI Level 5 Award in Retrofitting Domestic Properties offers valuable career progression opportunities:

Further Study

Learners may progress to the OCN NI Level 5 Certificate or Extended Certificate in Retrofitting Domestic Properties, or pursue a degree in a related field such as Sustainable Building, Energy Efficiency, or Environmental Engineering.

Employment

This qualification provides learners with the skills needed for employment in the growing green economy, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability in domestic housing. Career opportunities include:

• Retrofitting Specialist: Implement energy-efficient retrofitting techniques to improve the performance of existing domestic buildings.
• Energy Efficiency Consultant: Advise homeowners and organizations on retrofitting strategies to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprints.
• Sustainable Building Technician: Work on upgrading homes to meet modern energy efficiency standards while reducing environmental impact.
• Building Energy Auditor: Conduct assessments of existing properties and recommend cost-effective energy-saving measures and retrofitting solutions.
• Project Manager in Retrofitting: Lead projects aimed at retrofitting residential properties to improve energy efficiency and meet carbon reduction targets.

This course equips learners with essential skills in retrofitting and carbon reduction, preparing them for employment in the energy efficiency and sustainable building sectors. Key skills developed include:

Technical Skills

• Carbon Reduction and Retrofitting Techniques for Domestic Properties
• Energy Efficiency Assessments and Solutions
• Installation and Maintenance of Sustainable Technologies
• Building Energy Management and Optimization
• Application of Green Building Practices in Domestic Settings

Employability Skills

• Project Management in Retrofitting and Energy Efficiency
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking for Sustainable Solutions
• Effective Communication with Clients and Stakeholders
• Adaptability to Evolving Energy Standards and Building Regulations
• Independent Learning and Research Skills
• Collaboration and Teamwork in Multi-Disciplinary Environments