The full course takes two years to complete, and teaches students to construct traditional Spanish Classical and Flamenco guitars. The tools and techniques are well-established traditional ones, based closely on the Spanish method of construction that has been in use since Antonio de Torres first established the design of the modern classical guitar.The first instrument made by students is a copy of one of Torres' instruments from 1850.

The first year course is structured in Units, the majority of which are concerned with the making of the guitar, which is a practical, workshop-based activity, and includes making Moulds and jigs, Neck, Soundboard and Strutting, Rosette, Back and Ribs, Fingerboard and Bridge. All these components are then assembled and the finished instrument is French Polished. Other Units include Woodwork for Instrument Makers; Materials and their Applications; History & Development of the Guitar; and Health & Safety.

Students are required to keep a written record of their work, gradually building up a complete dossier which documents all the actions carried out to produce their first guitar. In addition, some written assignments are set, and some Units are assessed by written examination. The College Learning Centre provides resources in the form of books, periodicals and internet access.

Teaching is provided by professional guitar makers, (including Roy Courtnall, James Lister and Mal Brady)and from time, visiting musicians attend the course to discuss students' work and play their instruments. Recent visitors include the internationally renowned guitarists Simon Dinnigan, Mark Ashford and John Mills.

Previous experience in woodwork, art or engineering is an advantage, but each application is treated on its own merits. Ability to play the guitar is desirable but not essential.

During the second year students make at least two more guitars, of contrasting designs, and also complete a Business Studies project and an Acoustics module. The second year practical work is more elaborate and detailed; - more complex designs of guitar and rosette are made, and a higher standard of craftsmanship both in woodwork and French polishing is expected. The guitars made may be chosen from an approved list of great makers, including Fleta, Hauser, Friederich, Romanillos and Hernandez y Aguado. There is also the option of building a Flamenco guitar based on the famous design by Santos Hernandez.

The Level 2 Certificate is awarded to students who successfully complete the first year. The Level 3 Certificate is awarded to students who successfully complete the second year. All students who successfully complete Levels 2 and 3 are then marked against the criteria for the College Diploma Award. No further work is required, but the standards of assessment are high, and the Diploma is awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction grade.