Level 1
Plumbing Trade
Level 1
Plumbing Trade
Take your first step into the plumbing industry with this practical Level 1/Level 2 course. Combining hands-on workshop training with essential theory, you'll develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to progress into further study, an apprenticeship, or a career in plumbing and construction.
Course Overview
This Plumbing Trade course is a two-year Level 1/Level 2 programme designed to support learners in developing their knowledge, skills, and confidence progressively throughout the course. Learners begin at Level 1, developing the essential foundations required for progression to Level 2. Subject to successful completion of the Level 1 stage and meeting the progression requirements, learners continue onto the Level 2 stage. The full programme is two years in duration, with learners achieving a Level 2 qualification upon successful completion of the programme.Combining classroom learning with extensive hands-on workshop experience, you'll gain a solid understanding of plumbing systems, installation techniques, and industry best practice.
Taught by experienced industry professionals, the course provides the practical and theoretical foundation needed to progress within the construction industry. You'll develop technical skills while building confidence using professional tools, equipment, and materials in industry-standard workshop environments.
What will I study?
You'll develop your knowledge and practical skills in areas including:
• Pipe bending techniques
• Jointing and soldering methods
• Plumbing system design and installation
• Domestic hot and cold water systems
• Heating systems
• Drainage systems
• Plumbing regulations
• Health and safety practices
• Renewable energy technologies in plumbing
• Fault finding, maintenance, and troubleshooting of plumbing systems
How will I be assessed?
Assessment typically includes:
• Practical workshop assessments
• Written examinations
• Plumbing projects
• Maintenance tasks
These assessments allow you to demonstrate both your technical knowledge and your practical plumbing skills.
Entry Requirements
You'll normally need:
• GCSE grade 3 or above in both English and maths.
Applications are also considered on a case-by-case basis for learners who demonstrate a genuine passion for plumbing and construction.
Additional Information
Trips and Industry Experience
Throughout the year you'll have opportunities to expand your industry knowledge through:
• Visits to large commercial construction sites
• Employer talks and networking opportunities
• Industry visits to see plumbing systems in real working environments
• Educational visits, including Wessex Water, where you'll learn how water is treated, recycled, and supplied to homes and businesses
What can I do after this course?
Successful completion of this programme can lead to:
• Level 2 Plumbing qualifications
• A Plumbing apprenticeship
• Further training within the construction industry
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page.
Want to learn more? – Visit the campus, explore the facilities, and speak to our tutors at one of our Open Events.
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.