Free Level 1 Plumbing Course in Ashton-under-Lyne

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Plumbing Course in Ashton-under-Lyne. Classes run at Tameside College, full-time during the day. This is a one-year plumbing qualification that covers the fundamentals of working in the construction industry. You'll study copper pipework, plastic pressure pipe, low carbon steel pipework, above ground drainage, and installation, repair and maintenance. The course also covers safe working practices, environmental measures, and site preparation. Entry requires 4 GCSEs at grades 1 to 3, including English and Maths, plus a tutor interview.

Who this course is for

This programme is the first step to gaining a qualification in the Construction Industry, specifically in the role of a plumber

The course covers the following units:

  • Structure of the construction industry
  • Fundamental safe working practices
  • Environmental and sustainability measures
  • Site preparation for working in the construction industry
  • Above ground drainage
  • Copper pipework
  • Plastic pressure pipe
  • Low carbon steel pipework
  • Installation, repair and maintenance of plumbing systems

If you are interested in choosing a career in Plumbing, Tameside College is the place for you.

We have industry specialised tutors that will help facilitate you towards a plumbing career, these will aid you and guide you to your chosen career by providing you with all the skills, knowledge and practice required. This will maximise your potential as a plumber within the construction industry.

Tameside College has recently invested in a wide range of tooling and specialist work areas that reflect the workplace.

Tameside college is a front runner when it comes to VLE. (Virtual Learning Environment) we have tutors that are specialised in delivering online learning alongside traditional classroom learning and practical hands on learning. Learners will gain experience and knowledge of using online resources alongside the practical elements of the plumbing course.

Plumbing is an exciting and challenging career with lots of pathways attached to the plumbing industry. The course will combine numerous core skills such as communication, organisation, planning as well as practical skills. The course will give you the knowledge and skills to progress into a higher qualification.

If you choose to participate on the level 1 plumbing course, you will be taught how to cut into steel pipe using stocks and dies in order to make a threaded joint. You will be taught how to fabricate steel pipe frames by using the latest machinery and equipment.

On the level 1 p

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs grade 3 - 1 including English and Maths.

  • a successful interview with a tutor
  • the ability to study independently
  • a genuine interest in the subject
  • good communication skills

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the structure of the construction industry and how it operates.
  • You'll practise fundamental safe working practices on site.
  • You'll study environmental and sustainability measures relevant to plumbing work.
  • You'll prepare sites for construction industry work.
  • You'll install and work with copper pipework, plastic pressure pipe, and low carbon steel pipework.
  • You'll learn above ground drainage systems.
  • You'll cover installation, repair and maintenance techniques.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom at Tameside College, full-time during the day. Learning is hands-on and practical, covering real plumbing tasks alongside theory. Assessment is through the units set by City and Guilds for the Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Plumbing). You'll also need to demonstrate the ability to study independently, as this is part of the entry expectation for the programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Tameside College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Plumbing apprentice: entry-level role working toward a trade qualification
  • Construction site labourer: general site work with plumbing knowledge
  • Maintenance operative: basic repair and upkeep in residential or commercial settings
  • Plumbing assistant: supporting qualified plumbers on domestic or commercial jobs

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating: the next step toward becoming a qualified plumber, covering more advanced installation and heating systems.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating: the qualification plumbers need to work independently and apply for a CSCS skilled-worker card.
  • Plumbing apprenticeship: combines work-based training with study, leading to a recognised trade qualification.

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