Free Level 2 Plumbing Course in Gateshead

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Diploma Plumbing Course in Gateshead. Classes run full-time at Gateshead College Skills Academy for Construction. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old, or if you receive certain qualifying benefits. If you're 19 or over and don't meet those criteria, fees may apply. Over one year, you'll build the technical knowledge and hands-on skills needed for domestic plumbing work, covering cold and hot water systems, sanitation, central heating, and health and safety. The course includes work experience placements. You'll need 2 GCSEs at grade C (grade 4) or above in English and Maths to apply.

Who this course is for

This programme will give you an industry-recognised qualification and the technical knowledge and skills required to undertake basic domestic plumbing work, including cold and hot water systems and sanitation and central heating. You'll also gain an understanding of the importance of health and safety within the industry and will be able to take part in valuable work experience placements.

Level 2 Plumbing Studies is designed for those people wishing to enter into the plumbing industry but have no previous experience. This is a qualification that tests both practical and knowledge based skills in a realistic working environment and when you have successfully completed this qualification you will be at Improver/Plumber's Mate level.

In order to fully qualify as a plumber you will need to fully meet the performance criteria as laid down in the National Occupation Standards put together by summit Skills, the Sector Skills Council.

On this course you will study theory and practical sessions: -Health and Safety in building services engineering -Electrical principles and processes for building services engineering -Scientific principles for domestic, industrial and commercial plumbing -Common plumbing processes -Cold water systems -Sanitation -Central heating systems -Drainage systems -Understand how to communicate with others within building services engineering.

Assessment will be through a series of practical tasks, online tests and the production of a portfolio of evidence.

If you're looking to work in construction you need to have a minimum level of health and safety and environmental awareness. The college will help you get the CITB Health and Safety environment test. And also the Construction Skills Certification Card. You cannot enter the site unless you have passed either or both tests. Once you have passed your test you can gain work experience to practice the skills you learn at college.

Entry requirements

How will I be assessed? -You will be assessed by observation of practical performance, questioning and complete assignments and tests for theory. You will also compile a portfolio of evidence.

How will I be taught? -You will be taught by experienced industry tutors. The course will include a mix of classroom, practical and assessment activities to involve the learners and provide a relevant and engaging learning experience.

Qualifications Needed: -2 GCSEs grade C (4) or above in English and Maths.

Required Experience: -We welcome all applicants without any prior experience or knowledge in this area. You will need motivation to achieve and have a passion to gain skills enabling you to progress this as a career in the future.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how cold and hot water systems are installed and maintained.
  • You'll develop skills in sanitation systems and drainage.
  • You'll study central heating systems and how they work.
  • You'll understand health and safety requirements in the plumbing industry.
  • You'll gain practical experience through work placements.
  • You'll build a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate your skills.

How you will learn

You'll be taught by experienced industry tutors through a mix of classroom sessions, practical workshops, and assessment activities. Assessment includes observation of practical performance, questioning, assignments, and theory tests. You'll also compile a portfolio of evidence throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Gateshead College Skills Academy for Construction will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Plumber's mate. Assist qualified plumbers on domestic and commercial jobs.
  • Domestic plumber. Install and maintain water and heating systems in homes.
  • Heating engineer. Service and install central heating systems.
  • Maintenance operative. Carry out plumbing repairs in housing or facilities.
  • Self-employed plumber. Work for yourself once fully qualified and experienced.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating. The next step toward becoming a fully qualified plumber and gaining a CSCS skilled-worker card.
  • Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3). Earn while you learn and work toward industry recognition.
  • Gas Safe registration training. Required if you want to work on gas appliances and heating systems legally in the UK.

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