THE WLT BLOG EXCELLENCE IN TRAINING & ASSESSMENT
Materials/Equipment
Plumbing textbooks and training manuals are provided at the start of the course and additional technical handouts are distributed as appropriate. Further reference books and materials may be recommended. Tools and materials for use during practical sessions are provided by WLT. Students will need clothing and footwear suitable for workshop sessions.
Pre-requisites
Formal knowledge and experience of plumbing are not required, however applicants should have some practical aptitude and transferrable skills. The course is equally suitable for those with experience in the industry who wish to improve their theory knowledge and pursue formal qualification. There is no formal educational requirement, however basic minimum standards of literacy and numeracy are necessary to complete the training and assessments.
Technical Certificate in Plumbing Studies (C&G 6129 Level 2)
The Technical Certificate in Plumbing Studies (C&G 6129, Level 2) is the recognised entry-level qualification for the plumbing industry, which teaches theory and practical skills. It is included within the Apprenticeship framework, and may be undertaken as a stand-alone certificate by individuals who are not currently engaged within the industry.
Training
A combination of classroom- and workshop-based training takes place on a day-release basis over approx. 48 weeks. Candidates are advised to use the remainder of the week to gain relevant practical plumbing experience.
This Certificate covers all the "underpinning knowledge" (technology principles and practical skills) required to work competently as a plumber and achieve the NVQ2. Candidates who undertake the Certificate as a standalone certificate (i.e. without the NVQ) may return to do the NVQ at a later date if appropriate.
The 11 Core Units are:
- Safety in Plumbing Activities
- Key Plumbing Principles
- Common Plumbing Processes
- Cold Water Systems
- Domestic Hot Water Systems
- Sanitation Systems (above ground)
- Central Heating Systems (pipework only)
- Electrical Supply and Earth Continuity
- Sheet Lead Weathering
- Environmental Awareness in Plumbing
- Effective Working Relationships in the Plumbing Industry Assessment
Assessment
The Certificate is awarded for achievement of specified knowledge and practical outcomes. Each unit is assessed via an on-line external examination and/or assignment element. In addition, candidates compile a Practical Workbook of tasks they have completed during their training. Trainers conduct intermediate assessments at regular intervals during the course to monitor candidates progress and advise accordingly.
The course concludes with two assessments: an online theory assessment covering the full Underpinning Knowledge syllabus of the 11 core units, and a practical assessment consisting of: installation of a 3-piece bathroom suite (including hot and cold down services from cold water storage cistern, hot water storage cylinder and above ground drainage to soil stack); radiator connection to existing system using copper, iron and plastic pipe; and sheet-lead weathering a chimney.
Next steps
NVQ in Plumbing (C&G 6089, Level 2) On completion of the Certificate in Basic Plumbing, you may wish to progress to the NVQ. Please see overleaf for details.
Alternative routes
Apprenticeship in Plumbing
Combined with the NVQ and Key Skills, the Certificate forms part of the framework for the Apprenticeship in Plumbing. Apprenticeships are a government-subsidied training initiative, intended for men and women aged 16 to 65 who are are engaged in the industry. For more information, please refer to our Apprenticeship in Plumbing information sheet.
