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Plumber
leading to NVQ level 3
A uniquely structured programme combining theory and practical skills that will equip and prepare you for a new career as a plumber.
| Course overview | Whether your preference is to be employed or self-employed, this is the course for you. This 3-stage modular program with its combination of theory and practical skills, plus the opportunity for work-experience, will equip and prepare you for your new career in the plumbing industry. It is designed to present the content in logical sequence so that you can build your knowledge and skills progressively. Successful completion of the course will see you attain no fewer than nine industry recognised qualifications (including your plumbing NVQ at level 3). By the end of the course you will be recognised in the industry as a fully qualified plumber. You will have the qualifications which prove your competence to householders and the industry at large, and the course will give you everything you need to approach your new career with confidence. |
| Study options | Full-time, part-time, and blended learning (a mix of home study, plus occasional weekly blocks in-centre for practical experience) |
| Entry requirements | Physically fit, no colour blindness, computer literate and a good aptitude with numbers More information and brochure: |
| Modular 1 outcomes | Upon completion of this foundation module in plumbing principles and skills you will be able to carry out simple pipework and sanitary installation under supervision with a plumbing company. |
| Modular 2 outcomes | As an NVQ level 2 plumber you will hold the entry level industry recognised qualification and will have proven competence to work on a wide range of domestic plumbing installations in an employed or self-employed capacity. |
| Modular 3 outcomes | The NVQ level 3 will give you recognition as an advanced craft plumber and provide a route to become a registered gas installer too. |
| Study hours | Module 1 - 200 hours Module 2 - 380 hours Module 3 - 400 hours |
| Purchase options | Depending on the type of work you intend carrying out, the level to which you want to become qualified and whether you plan to become employed or self-employed, each module can be purchased as a single unit, or can be combined together and bought as a package. |
Note regarding the City and Guilds 6089 NVQ:
Having attained the technical certificate in module 1 and 2, you will be able to attain the C&G 6089 NVQ. In order to take the NVQ you will need to be working for a plumbing or heating contracting firm. If you’re going self-employed, but you still wish to obtain your NVQ level 2 and 3 then subject to availability we may be able to provide you with sufficient work experience. Please ask for details.
For detailed information about this course, including syllabus/fees etc. call
Course Plan
Module 1 – Plumbing Foundation
This module has been designed to give you an introduction to the Plumbing industry and the role of the Plumber in the construction and mechanical services sectors. It will give you a thorough grounding in plumbing principles and technologies and is the essential underpinning knowledge and stepping stone for those wanting to gain full Plumbing professional status by attainment of the NVQ. In this module you will learn simple pipework techniques and tackle typical sanitary tasks. At this point in your study you will be limited to working under supervision with a plumbing company.
| Topic areas | Health & Safety Plumbing Science Practical Application Plumbing Systems Regulations in the MES section Simple pipework installation Sanitary accommodation installation, maintenance and design |
| Outcomes | City & Guilds 6022 Copper Pipe-work installation Certificate BPEC – Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 City & Guilds 6032 Sanitary Accommodation Installation Maintenance and Design Certificate LOGIC Legionella Prevention Certificated Construction skills certification scheme (CSCS) health & safety card |
Module 2 – Plumbing Intermediate
Upon successful completion of the Plumbing Intermediate Level, you will have attained several industry recognised qualifications including the City & Guilds 6129 Technical Certificate at Level 2 and the City & Guilds 6089 NVQ Level 2. On successful completion of the comprehensive practical training you will also be able to register as an approved contractor with your local authority under the BPEC Water Regulations scheme. As a NVQ level 2 plumber you will hold an industry recognised qualification proving your competence to work on domestic plumbing installations in an employed or self-employed capacity.
| Topic areas | Non-complex central heating systems Non-complex hot water systems Basic electrical principles relating to heating system components Installation and maintenance of plumbing systems Customer relations Drainage and guttering Sheet lead weathering systems |
| Outcomes | City & Guilds 6129 Technical Certificate Level 2 City & Guilds 6089 NVQ level 2 |
Module 3 – Plumbing Advanced
The Plumbing Advanced Level of the course will see you acquire six further qualifications; in addition to advanced plumbing systems and skills this module will see you gain knowledge and practical skills in gas and electrical systems too. Having completed the course, as an NVQ level 3 advanced craft plumber you can work alongside a qualified gas installer and gain sufficient experience to meet the minimum entry requirements for the gas accreditation scheme. Following ACS accreditation and sufficient on-site hours you will be eligible to apply to become a registered gas installer.
| Topic areas | Gas systems and supply Gas appliance installation and servicing Complex central heating systems Complex hot water systems Domestic electrical installation works relating to plumbing & heating engineers Solar powered domestic hot water heating systems Shower Installation |
| Outcomes | Part P Defined Scope electrical qualification Unvented Hot Water Storage Systems - LOGIC Certificated Logic certificated Solar powered domestic hot water heating systems City & Guilds 6084 Energy Efficiency Certificate ATL Shower Installation certificate City & Guilds 6129 technical certificate level 3 City & Guilds 6089 NVQ level 3 |
