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Level 1 Plumbing

Subject Area

Construction & Construction Trades

Student Type

Students aged 16-18

Study Mode

Full Time

Course Type

Technical

What is the course about?

The Level 1 Plumbing course is suitable for anybody who would like to secure a practical career as a plumber or heating engineer. Whether you want to work as part of a larger company or aspire to set up your own business, this course will help you to reach your career goals. You will learn how to fit, service and repair hot and cold-water systems, central heating systems, bathroom suites and kitchens.

Why should I choose the course?

If you are a hands-on person and enjoy working with resistance materials, this course would be suitable for you. It will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed for a career within the plumbing industry. You will have the opportunity to study in our fully equipped construction facilities with well-kitted out, modern workshops. Working with industry standard equipment will help prepare you for employment in this industry.

What will I learn?

This highly practical course covers a range of topics such as health and safety, installation, repair, and maintenance of plumbing systems, above ground drainage, pipework (copper, plastic, low carbon steel), and plumbing science. As part of your course you will carry out on-site industry placement to build your skills, knowledge and employability.

*Irrespective of your GCSE results, all students will start at level 1 and learn basic skills before progressing through the course levels.

What will the course lead on to?

With a booming construction industry and government initiatives aimed at installing renewable energy into all households, there’s never been a better time to consider a career in plumbing. Following successful completion of this course, there are several further training courses that you can undertake to expand and develop your skills in areas such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and renewable energy.

The course is an ideal steppingstone to the Level 2 Plumbing course. Some of the course content will have already been covered in your first year. If you wish to continue your studies, you could then progress on to the Level 3 Plumbing course.

Are there any links with industry and university?

The college works with many local and national trades companies such as Aquila Plumbing, H20, and Ocean Bathrooms. You will hear from leading industry professionals, which will enhance your skills and prepare you for working life in this field. As well as inviting a range of industry experts to deliver talks on career progression, we also invite tool manufacturers to present the latest tools, ensuring that you are kept up to date with the latest equipment. Companies include Screwfix, MKM, Monument Tools and Nerrad Tools.

What support is available?

You will be allocated a progress coach who will provide you with support to help you succeed on your study programme and progress on to your chosen career or progression path. We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if required, as well as a Welfare Team that is on hand to offer guidance, support and help when needed.

Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college.

Click here for learning support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/learning-support

Click here for finance support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/financial-support

Why should I choose to study the course at Warrington & Vale Royal College?

During your time at the college, you will have the opportunity to take part in activities that will enrich your time here alongside your course. You can actively participate in activities to boost your skills in equality and diversity, confidence, leadership, teamwork, health and wellbeing, and self-motivation, which can all help to enhance your employability. Every year our plumbing students go on educational visits which enhance the learning process.

What are the entry requirements?

You will need a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 2 or above. If you have not already achieved a grade 4 in your GCSE English and/or maths, you will be required to work towards either a GCSE or functional skills qualification in English and/or maths as part of your study programme.

Irrespective of your GCSE results, most students will start at level 1 and learn basic skills before progressing through the levels.

Are there any additional costs associated with the course?

You will need to purchase appropriate safety footwear to wear during practical sessions. Rigger boots are not allowed.


You will also be expected to be equipped with suitable writing equipment including pens, paper, folders, and a calculator.

A CSCS Card will also be needed if you participate on a work placement, at a cost of £30.

Careers Information

Course options

Starts Sep 2025

Duration
36 Weeks
Class Times
TBC
Location
Warrington Campus
Day(s)
TBC
Adult Fee
TBC
16-18 Fee
Free

Course Enquiry

Please complete this form if you would like any other information about this course

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