Plumbing Apprenticeship
Introduction to the trade:
Plumbers are responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of plumbing services, both inside and outside buildings such as houses, schools, hospitals, factories and shops, etc. If you are looking for a flexible, rewarding and financially secure career, plumbing could be for you.
Despite the state of the national economy, people will always need good plumbers. According to the Government's Construction Skills Network an average of 100 new plumbers per month are required to keep up with national demand (http://plumbingapprenticeships.net/) so there is no shortage in opportunities for the future. A career in this part of the construction sector also offers lots of options, you could become employed by a plumbing company, do contract work on large projects or be self-employed, work in the UK or abroad. Australia and New Zealand have open door skilled migration policies for people with these skills!
Some of the duties/requirements of a plumber include: The installation, maintenance and repair of plumbing services, both in and outside of buildings, sometimes at height, being prepared to travel away from home, being able to read and interpret engineering and building drawings, inspecting and testing plumbing installations, diagnosing and rectifying faults on a range of circuits and equipment and preparing written reports.
The College, in the first instance, will assist you in finding employment with a suitable local employer You will receive comprehensive training both at work and at College, following a training programme that is tailored to you and your employer's needs. Therefore, the skills and knowledge that you acquire will be relevant to your employment and help you to progress in your chosen career.
Each apprentice has a nominated Business Development Officer who will provide co-ordination between the employer, the College and the apprentice, giving continuity and support throughout the apprenticeship.
What qualifications will I gain?
There are two levels of apprenticeship available, level 2 and level 3. You would start with the level 2 apprenticeship which takes 2 years to complete and you can then progress to the level 3 to become a fully qualified plumber. The qualifications you will achieve are the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating and Level 3 in Domestic Plumbing and Heating.
Apprenticeship (Level 2)
- NVQ Diploma Level 2 in Plumbing and Heating -this is the competency part of the qualification and essential for you to achieve the full apprenticeship. This part shows that you are competent in performing the skill, trade or occupation your apprenticeship requires
- Technical Certificate (Diploma) - to show that you have the necessary technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts as well as knowledge and understanding of the relevant market and industry
- Functional Skills - providing you will a good level of literacy and numeracy. Level 2 English, Level 2 maths and Level 1 ICT
Advanced Apprentice (Level 3
You will need to have achieved a Level 2 Apprenticeship in plumbing before you can embark on the Advanced (Level 3) Apprenticeship.
- NVQ Diploma Level 3 in Plumbing and Heating (NVQ) - this is the competency part of the qualification and essential for you to achieve the full apprenticeship. This part shows that you are competent in performing the skill, trade or occupation your apprenticeship requires
- Technical Certificate (Diploma) - to show that you have the necessary technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts as well as knowledge and understanding of the relevant market and industry
- Functional Skills - providing you will a good level of literacy and numeracy. Level 2 English, Level 2 maths and Level 1 ICT
How will I be trained?
Apprenticeships are designed with the help of the employers in the industry, so they offer a structured programme that takes you through the skills you need to do a job well. There are targets and checks to make sure that your employer is supporting you and you are making progress.
As an employee you will be in employment for most of your time as most training takes place on the job. The rest takes place at HCT. You can complete this off-the-job training on day release or over a number of days in a block. All the things you study at college will be useful in your job and help you succeed in your future career. Your employment will usually be for at least 30 hours per week.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment will take place through practical training at college and work and via theory through a portfolio of evidence. Work-based assessments are also carried out.
What are the entry requirements?
GCSE grade A-C in maths and English are desirable in order to cope with the complexities of the course. You need practical skills and should be able to demonstrate a keen interest in plumbing. Students must be in full time employment with a plumber or with a plumbing business.
Competition for places with employers can be fierce, so you will need to show that you are committed, and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you. You also need to be happy to work as both part of a team and individually, and be able to use your own initiative.
Key Facts
Campus: Hereford
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: A Level 2 Apprenticeship will take 2 years and an Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) will take an additional 18 months to 2 years.
Typical Employment:
Working for a sole trader or a small to medium sized business
Further Study:
Core Gas safety register plus additional specialist units e.g. Domestic Cookers, Central Heating. LPG – caravans and boats.
Contact: 0800 389 9805
busdev@hct.ac.uk
