Plumbing is an excellent trade to qualify in due to the significant earning potential, and the knowledge there will always be a steady supply of work incoming from clients.
The average salary for a newly qualified plumber is £31,787, according to information from www.totaljobs.com. This is higher than average salaries for many other trades, but in fact, many plumbers earn substantially more through private contracts and weekend work. An experienced plumber would expect to earn £50,000 per year, or more.
Skills and qualifications in plumbing provide a 'trade for life', as well as flexibility and freedom to become self-employed or work hours that suit your lifestyle. This means job satisfaction amongst plumbers is high, with 86% recommending it as a career (HPM Survey, 2018).
What makes Plumbing at HRC special?
- Our plumbing programmes are delivered by our partner organisation, CK Assessment and Training, based in Broxbourne. CK's achievements rates for Plumbing Diplomas are consistently above national average rates.
- All courses are delivered by qualified and experienced plumbers, who between them have over 100 years of plumbing and gas industry experience
- Programmes are aimed at students of all ages, and do not require previous experience. They are also suited to those with some knowledge or experience, who wish to gain the qualifications they need to progress in their careers.
What do our students say?
"I've really enjoyed it and I've learned a great deal since starting the course"
"My tutor made me feel confident about starting my assessments. I didn't think I'd be able to complete it but I did"
Career Destinations
During the last year our students have progressed into careers in:
- Plumbing
- Gas engineering
- Property maintenance
- School facilities maintenance
- Construction
What can I do next?
After completing a diploma in Plumbing at level 2, you could progress to:
- An Intermediate Apprenticeship in Plumbing
- An Advanced Apprenticeship in Plumbing and Heating
- A Gas Foundation programme
- Enter employment in the plumbing industry
What will I be doing?
You will be working towards a City and Guilds 6035 Diploma in Plumbing.:
You will be undertaking a wide range of practical learning and assessments in the workshop, and improving your knowledge of plumbing theory, techniques and regulations in the classroom
Amongst the things you will cover, you will learn
- how to install a full bathroom suite
- how to cut, measure, bend and install pipework in a range of materials
- how to fit guttering
- installation of cold water storage systems
- how to fit hot water cylinders
- rules and regulations covering plumbing
Many students will undertake work experience or work trials in plumbing. Many will benefit from this experience by progressing into employment and Apprenticeships.
Those students who need to improve their maths or English to help them in their careers, will also have the opportunity to do so
Added Extras
Students will be supported to gain work experience or actual employment within plumbing, if they wish to do so. We offer also careers information and advice, support with CV building and access to a range of available employment placements. For those already working in plumbing, an Apprenticeship, also offered by CK Assessment, may also be suited to your needs and help you to become fully qualified
How will I be assessed?
60% of the course is completed through practical assessment, 40% is through online exams which prove your knowledge of the plumbing sector. Assessments and exams are taken throughout the course, as you progress and gain skills and knowledge towards your qualification.
Entry requirements
There are no entry requirements for this course, apart from an interest in the plumbing sector. If you'd like help understanding your suitability for this course, give our Information Team a call on 01992 411411
What do I need to bring?
- Steel toecap/work boots
- Suitable work clothing/overalls
If you think you would benefit from financial support, we have bursary options available for those who meet the criteria. Please note that this funding is not guaranteed and is subject to availability at the time of application.
If you would like financial support, contact our Information Team on 01992 411411 orThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Fee Information
Free to those under 19 on 31st August 2021.
If you are 19 or over on 31st August 2021, have been a permanent resident in the EU for the last 3 years and are a fee paying new entrant you will pay approx. £2000 tuition fee for a Level 2 qualification and approx. £5500 for a Level 3 qualification (these were the fees for 2020/21 and could be subject to change for 2021/22).
Fee paying students continuing on the same course for a second year will be charged £2000 tuition fee for a Level 2 qualification and approx. £3500 for a Level 3 qualification (these were the fees for 2020/21 and could be subject to change for 2021/22).
If you are aged 19-23 you may also be entitled to free training if the course you choose is your first full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification. You may also be required to pay an administration fee, exam fees, kit fee and an Awarding Body Registration fee if applicable.
For these costs please contact our Information Centre on 01992 411411 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
These fees are indicative of the 2024-25 costs and may be subject to change
