Training Options for New Plumbers
Working as a plumber in the UK can be both a lucrative and rewarding experience. If you enjoy working with your hands, solving problems, and dealing with people, a plumbing career may be perfect for you.
By taking some coursework and gaining hands-on experience, you can become a successful plumber and enjoy working in a sector that’s always in demand. Here are three training options to explore that can help you realize your dream of being a plumber.
Plumbing Apprenticeship
If you’re sure you want to become a plumber and you’re fresh out of school or are about to leave school, your best option is to get a plumbing apprenticeship. This is the traditional route to becoming a plumber.
A plumbing apprenticeship takes four years to complete. During this period of time, you’ll be learning the ropes by working alongside a professional plumber.
During the third year of your plumbing apprenticeship, you can expect to take some domestic heating systems coursework so you’ll become Gas Safe registered at the end of your apprenticeship. The last year of your apprenticeship will be all about learning the tricks of the trade by spending most of your time working in the field.
A plumbing apprenticeship doesn’t cost you anything and you can actually earn a small income during your training. An apprenticeship is perfect for you if you’re between 16 and 24 years of age and are positive you want to become a plumber. The fastest way to gain an apprenticeship is to contact plumbing companies in your area to see if they’re willing to take on an apprentice.
College Coursework
Many colleges in the UK that offer plumbing training courses. If you’re interested in taking this path toward a plumbing career, look for a college near you that offers plumbing courses.
When it comes to college courses, you can typically choose from three training options. A Level 1 entry-level plumbing course does not require any particular qualifications. This basic course teaches you core plumbing skills and prepares you for Level 2 and Level 3 plumbing courses.
A Level 2 plumbing course put you a step further on the road to becoming a fully qualified plumber. During the course of about a year, you’ll learn and practise the skills needed for working in the plumbing sector.
Once you complete Level 2 training, you can move on to Level 3. This is the final step toward becoming a qualified plumber. This coursework is focused on plumbing installation, draining, central heating systems, etc so you’ll have the skills needed to launch a successful plumbing career.
Fast Track Plumbing Training
A fast track plumbing training course doesn’t take several years to complete like apprenticeships or college courses. This training option is a good choice for working adults who want to train to become plumbers in their spare time.
With a fast-track program, you can conveniently build your plumbing knowledge from the comfort of your own home via the internet. Once you complete the theory portion of the plumbing course, you typically need to attend a training centre where you’ll be taught the hands-on skills necessary to become a qualified plumber.