Free Level 1 Plumbing Course in Bishop Auckland

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Diploma Plumbing Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time across up to three days a week. The course runs for one year and covers both practical and theory plumbing lessons. You'll also study Maths and English as part of the programme. Note that classes are taught at the college's South West Durham site in Newton Aycliffe. Entry requires a minimum of three GCSEs at grade D to F, including Maths and/or English. Alternative qualifications are considered. An interview and short assessment form part of the application process.

Who this course is for

If you enjoy doing practical things and you want a skill that you can use in different ways, this could be perfect for you. As a plumber you would fit, service and repair water pipes and heating systems in homes and businesses. This course provides the perfect foundation for study in this technical and rewarding field.

This full time course is taught up to 3 days a week for 1 year and includes Maths and English. This course will be taught at our South West Durham site in Newton Aycliffe.

Entry requirements

A minimum of three GCSEs at grade D-F including maths and/or English depending on course requirements. Alternative qualifications will be considered. An interview and short assessment will assess your suitability and interest in the subject.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to fit, service and repair water pipes and heating systems.
  • You'll develop practical plumbing skills through hands-on workshop sessions.
  • You'll study the theory behind plumbing systems and how they work.
  • You'll take part in Enterprise projects as part of your studies.
  • You'll practise Maths and English skills relevant to the plumbing trade.
  • You'll build the foundation knowledge needed to progress in the plumbing sector.

How you will learn

You'll attend practical workshop sessions and theory lessons in the classroom. Learning is delivered full-time over up to three days a week. You'll also take part in Enterprise projects. Assessment includes an interview and short assessment at the start of the course to confirm your suitability. Your progress is assessed through a combination of practical tasks and written work throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

You'll need boots and overalls for practical sessions. These can be purchased through Bishop Auckland College. The college will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Plumbing apprentice. A paid apprenticeship is a common next step after this course.
  • Trainee plumber. Entry-level role fitting and repairing pipes and heating systems.
  • Heating engineer trainee. Supporting installation and servicing of heating systems.
  • Maintenance operative. General building maintenance including basic plumbing tasks.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating. The natural next step after this course, covering more advanced plumbing skills and systems.
  • NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing and Domestic Heating. A work-based qualification often completed as part of a paid plumbing apprenticeship.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating. The qualification experienced plumbers work toward for full trade recognition.

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