Featured Events in Swindon in October 2025 (July Updated)

We’re delighted to offer a 3 day course for those contemplating a self build project. Covering 11 topics in total, this informal workshop makes use of the superb practical exhibits available in the Centre to provide attendees with a level of knowledge which guarantees their projects will go more smoothly. Day 1 Budgeting & Finance This first session is dedicated to methods of raising finance and the importance of setting a budget and controlling costs throughout the project. Finding & Evaluating Land Finding a building plot is never easy, but there are ways and means to find that elusive dream plot. Design & Specification This session will look at how to get the best design for your dream home. Building Systems & Construction Methods We’ll take you on a comprehensive tour of the build process, covering everything from clearing and setting up your site, laying the foundations and options for building the superstructure and roof. Day 2 Planning Permission & Permitted Development Our Planning expert will explain the intricacies of the planning process and how you can optimise your chances of getting approval for your dream home. Building Regulations We’ll explain about building control procedures and the importance of building regulations. Trades, Contracts & Tendering We’ll discuss the best way to find tradesmen, the trades you’ll be hiring, when you’ll need them and what they do. Project Management & Site Set Up Starting with the basic principles of managing the people involved in your build, through to budgets, basic contracting techniques, buying materials and site management. Day 3 Eco Fundamentals Our eco expert Rob Bohm, shows you how to lessen the impact your project could have on the environment; he looks at the incentives available and drivers for using various eco technologies, comparative fuel costs and helps you understand how to calculate the payback terms. He’ll also consider the latest legislative requirements of Passivhaus, SAP ratings, and other potential incentives. Eco Design, Planning & Management We will look at the different elements of the building to make sure they are designed, specified and installed to maximise their potential. Internal Services: Our eco expert Rob, will discuss the usage of current eco-tech options in your new home. Information Source: The National Self Build & Renovation Centre | eventbrite

This course is essential for anyone considering their first self build, home improvement, loft conversion or renovation project. Covering everything from budgeting, insurance and site management through to health & safety, snagging and VAT reclaim. This one-day event is delivered by experienced Project Manager, Lucy Nylander, Lucy has worked for NSBRC Partner, CLPM, for over 5 years, and is both a qualified architect and extremely experienced Construction Project Manager. With over 25 years in the industry, Lucy has worked on a variety of building types and has a great deal of knowledge in the planning and setting up of projects including dealing with matters relating to construction compliance such as health & safety and party wall issues. Lucy also has experience in managing and implementing inclusive designs and has supported clients, with disabilities, in adapting their homes to suit their needs. What will the course cover? Project Management Basics Sequencing your Build Project Management Options Build Routes Programme Management Budgeting - Setting and Establishing a Budget Controlling Expenditure Insurances and Warranties VAT Reclaim Trades and Materials Sourcing and Managing Trades Getting a Price Contract Options Sourcing Materials Quality Control Site Preparation and Set up Site Management Avoiding the Pitfalls Health and Safety Completion delivered in such an understandable, no nonsense way “ A tremendous thank you for the invaluable advice and information which was delivered in such an understandable, no nonsense way. It has enabled me to narrow down the best route for me to take for my forever home .” exceeded my expectations Thank you so much for the Project Management Course. I found it so valuable, so well organised - it exceeded my expectations invaluable “ You did a wonderful job of putting this course together [...] I really appreciated being able to participate online and learnt so much that will prove invaluable when we come to build our new home. Thank you everyone, it was fab! ” Refund Policy - The Project Management Course Cost of one-day courses held at the Centre per person: £165.00 gbp (VAT inclusive). We offer course places on a first come first serve basis. If you are unable to attend the course after booking, we can transfer your place to another course date if you notify us at least a week before the event (subject to availability). Please notify us as soon as possible. Please note that we will issue a full refund if you notify us up to 7 days prior to the event start date, if you notify us after this time your payment will be non-refundable. Information Source: The National Self Build & Renovation Centre | eventbrite

The NSBRC Guide to Getting your Project Started will give you the foundations for a successful, worry-free project allowing you to focus on the key decisions and enjoy the excitement of creating your new home. Ideal for anyone taking on a self build, renovation or large scale refurb for the first time, our new course is delivered by an experienced presenter with a background in designing and building homes. In this Course you’ll learn how you can get started with a building project using checklists, tool & examples. The session covers various topics including appointing a professional team, understanding planning permission, project management, legal issues, completing the design, managing finances, preparing to start on-site, & more. Our Guide to Getting your Project Started Course is delivered by Independent Project Manager, Mark Stevenson. Having worked as a builder and construction professional for almost 30 years, Mark Stevenson uses his experience to help self-builders build their own homes. Whilst Mark describes himself as a ‘professional builder’ as a result of his career in house building and timber systems manufacturing, he has specialist knowledge of timber construction and extensive expertise in finding land and appraising building plots. What will the course cover? Appointing your professional team Professionals: who are they & when should I use them? Professional fees & what you get for your money Understanding your planning permission Different types of permission Dealing with planning conditions Planning obligations: dealing with CIL Project management - the basics Choosing a routes to build: DIY, PM or Builder? Tips for managing your team Importance of communication Dealing with legal issues Covenants Rights of access Off site works Party wall arrangements Completing the design What’s needed & who does what? Site investigations & surveys Building regulations Energy efficiency Choosing a structural build system - what are your options? Warranties Managing money Mortgages & raising finance Using the 'Help to Build' fund Financial roles & responsibilities on a building project Putting together a 'build budget' What construction costs do I need to consider? Managing VAT Contingency and abnormal allowances: what are they? Avoiding financial disputes & claims Money saving ideas (checklist) Financial tools (Excel based) Budget tracking Cash flow management Variations & extras Managing Time Scheduling the prestart activities Planning & programming Example programmes (prestart, built, short term) Managing Procurement Choosing and appointing suppliers & contractors How to put an enquiry together Defining the scope of work / specifications & why these are important Comparing quotations & how to work out which is best Understanding contracts & appointments Preparing to start on site Your prestart checklist CDM & health and safety Setting up the site Site access & storage arrangements Site security Dealing with demolitions & contamination Dealing with services & diversions Insurances Managing information Tips to make sure your build progresses on time and within budget: Set realistic goals and timelines: Before starting your project, it is essential to determine realistic goals and timelines. This helps to ensure that everyone involved in the project has a clear understanding of what needs to be done and when it needs to be completed by. Communicate effectively: Effective communication helps ensure that the project progresses smoothly, so all stakeholders are aware of the project's objectives, timelines, and budget. Hold regular meetings to keep everyone updated on the progress and address any issues. Plan for contingencies: No matter how well you plan, unforeseen issues can arise during the construction process. Therefore, it is essential to have contingency plans in place to resolve these issues quickly. Monitor progress: Regularly monitor your project's progress to ensure that it is on track by using project management tools to track tasks, timelines, and expenses. Manage resources effectively: Ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively. This includes managing trades, materials, and equipment to minimise waste and keep costs under control. By following these tips, you can ensure that your construction project progresses smoothly and is completed on time and within budget. Join the next course to find out more! Information Source: The National Self Build & Renovation Centre | eventbrite