A plumbing apprenticeship is a great way to gain on-the-job training while acquiring a new qualification, and being paid for it. There are several levels that plumber apprentices can work through to gain both diplomas and advanced plumbing qualifications.
In this article we will run through everything you need to know about plumbing apprenticeships, and why we think that they’re an amazing way to get into an in-demand industry.
Why Choose Gas Tech Heating for Your Apprenticeship?
Gas Tech Heating knows apprenticeships are crucial to the future of the industry and champions them.
Current apprentice Leo came to Gas Tech Heating from Oaklands College in St Albans and is currently four years into his plumbing career.
Plumbing Apprenticeships: Everything You Need to Know
Let us run through everything you need to know about plumbing apprenticeships.
What is a plumbing apprenticeship?
A plumbing apprenticeship helps to kickstart a career as a plumber. With a mixture of on-the-job training and college classes, apprentices learn how to install and maintain plumbing systems, as well as sanitation systems, bathroom fit outs and more. These valuable skills can then be used once in a full-time plumber role once the apprentice is fully qualified.
Applicants can opt for a Level 2 apprenticeship, where they can work towards an NVQ Diploma in plumbing and heating, or a Level 3 advanced apprenticeship to learn the skills needed to become a heating engineer, via routes such as the recently launched Level 2 and Level 3 plumbing apprenticeship standards from the CIPHE.
What are the day-to-day tasks of a plumbing apprentice?
Day-to-day tasks for plumbing apprentices can include: installing and repairing water and drainage systems, as well as cutting and shaping join pipes or fittings. Apprentices could also be expected to help with jobs away from plumbing such as fitting weather-proof materials and flashings to roofs, chimneys and walls, and responding to emergency call-outs. Its a varied role!
What qualifications do you need to start?
For plumber apprenticeships, applicants will usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths.
According to the National Careers Service, skills needed include:
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- knowledge of building and construction
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of maths
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to work well with your hands
- customer service skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
How much do plumbing apprentices earn?
An average starting salary for plumbing apprentices will be around £24,000 annually. This can vary however depending on the company and college funding the apprenticeship.
Career Progression for Plumbing Apprentices
From plumbing apprentice to fully-qualified plumber, there are lots of opportunities for career progression with this type of apprenticeship.
With a plumbing apprenticeship under their belt, apprentices can specialise in various areas in the industry. It also paves the way to undertake further qualifications and training for working with ventilation and air-conditioning systems, or renewable energy technologies like solar powered heating.
Plumbing apprentices can also train to become a heat pump engineer by completing a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship in Low Carbon Heating.
Why Plumbing is a Great Career Choice
In Hemel Hempstead and surrounding areas, homeowners and businesses consistently require the need for routine checks as well as emergency call-outs. With a plumbing apprenticeship, there will be lots of opportunity for on-the-job experience and learning. The demand for skilled plumbers will not be going anywhere anytime soon. And with career progression and high earning potential, this trade is a great choice for those looking to start an apprenticeship.
FAQs (Focus on apprentice-related questions)
What does a plumbing apprenticeship involve?
A plumbing apprenticeship uses a mixture of on-the-job training and college classes.
How long does a plumbing apprenticeship take?
A plumbing apprenticeship can take anywhere from 2 to 5 years.
What qualifications do I need to apply for a plumbing apprenticeship?
Qualifications for plumbing apprenticeships usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths.
How much can I earn during my plumbing apprenticeship?
The average starting salary for a plumber apprentice is around £24,000 per year.
What career options will I have after completing a plumbing apprenticeship?
After a plumbing apprenticeship, there is a path of progression into areas like heat pumps, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, and renewable energy technologies like solar powered heating.
Contact Gas Tech Heating for more information about our apprenticeship programme.
