Free Level 3 Plumbing Course in Durham

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Plumbing Course in Durham. Classes run at New College Durham, full-time during the day.

The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though funding options are available.

You'll study plumbing systems, pipework, and heating in industry-standard workshops. The course combines hands-on practical training with the theory behind it. It runs for one year full-time.

You'll finish with a City and Guilds Advanced Technical Diploma in Plumbing at Level 3.

Who this course is for

Course may be subject to change.

This course will provide you with an in-depth understanding of plumbing, and will help you gain the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in this sector.

You will have practical training in our industry standard workshops where you will gain both hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge.

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to install and maintain cold and hot water systems.
  • You'll understand central heating systems and how to work on them safely.
  • You'll develop skills in pipework installation and jointing techniques.
  • You'll study the principles of drainage and sanitation systems.
  • You'll gain knowledge of gas safety regulations and working practices.
  • You'll practise fault-finding and repair on plumbing installations.
  • You'll learn to read and interpret technical drawings and specifications.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom lessons and practical sessions in industry-standard workshops. Hands-on training gives you experience with real plumbing systems and tools. Assessment includes practical tasks, written assignments, and tests covering both technical skills and underpinning knowledge.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Plumber, installs and maintains water and heating systems in homes and commercial buildings.
  • Heating engineer, services and installs central heating and boiler systems.
  • Plumbing and heating technician, works across both domestic and commercial projects.
  • Maintenance operative, carries out plumbing repairs in housing or facilities management.
  • Self-employed plumber, runs your own plumbing business once qualified and experienced.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Plumbing and Heating, the on-site qualification that supports a CSCS skilled-worker card and is valued by employers.
  • Gas Safe registration training, required if you want to work legally on gas appliances.
  • Level 4 Higher Technical Qualification in Building Services Engineering, for those moving into supervisory or design roles.