Train 4 Trade Skills - Plumber's Page
How do you define a plumber?
The Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering's definition of plumbing is:
"Work associated with the provision of water supply pipework including that used for fire fighting; all forms of space heating, gas installation, sanitary appliances, discharge pipework and drainage; the weathering of structures and buildings."
What makes a good plumber?
Plumbers are extremely important people in society. It's a fact of life that wherever people settle, they will always need plumbers. Good plumbing is not only vital to public health (plumbers deal with clean drinking water, sanitation, heating systems etc), but is also an integral part of modern day life - how many of us could do without the luxury of a hot bath or central heating? Without the competent plumber disease would be rife, sanitation non-existent, clean, fresh drinking water from a tap only a dream and central heating would consist of a coal or log fire!
Dispelling the myths.
What qualities does a plumber need to have?
Plumbers need the intelligence to work out complex equations, the expertise and flexibility to install different systems, the knowledge to understand how and why different systems work, the ability and initiative to problem solve, a thirst for knowledge of new technology, a creative mind, sound judgement and most importantly professionalism and honesty. Most colleges will prefer you to have a GCSE grade A-C level in Maths and Science or equivalent, to prove you have the mental ability for the job. Our training though requires no formal qualifications as we assess your ability at the time of enrolment.
Being a plumber is a physical job; you will have to be prepared to get your hands dirty (some plumbers on a regular basis, some every now and again), learn to use many tools and equipment in a safe and proper fashion, you will need a head for heights, be willing to fit into small, cramped spaces (under sinks etc) and you will need to be a quick learner (plumbers who take you on for work experience will expect you to make the odd mistake, but not to make it twice!).
You will also have to be a 'people person' by having good communication skills and take pride in your work. You have to respect people's properties and uphold high standards in plumbing to protect the public health. The result of all this can lead to immense job satisfaction.
Working as a plumber on the tools needs physical skill and mental ability. There is no use knowing the theory if you can't do the practice and vice-versa. The plumbing industry holds diverse career paths, good wages and the opportunity for individuals to run their own business. Many plumbers progress to design, consultancy, teaching and management, making the plumbing and heating industry a career with a future.
The Opportunity
You may well have heard or read about the 'skills shortage' in plumbing. The stories have been widely reported in the national press over recent months. There remains a significant need for skilled and qualified individuals to fill this gap. As a trained plumber, you could choose to work for a contractor or be your own boss. Whether your preference is to be employed or self-employed, the opportunities are considerable. Average salaries for newly qualified plumbers range from £25000 - £40000, with London and the South East allowing even greater potential. Self-employed individuals can earn considerably more but must take on more risk to do so.
Our training has been specially designed using techniques developed over the last 50 years to allow you to train according to your lifestyle and to fit your studies around an already busy schedule. It will allow you to absorb the knowledge and skills you need easily, building constantly on your knowledge base. It will serve to reinforce the knowledge you have acquired gradually yet consistently and provided you apply a little dedication to your studies, your skills base will expand rapidly to the point where you are fully ready to pass with flying colours. There has never been a better time to consider a future in plumbing, so if you're still interested, apply today.
Did you know?
- 5.5 million people trained throughout Europe
- 29,000 newly qualified plumbers will be required in the UK next year
- all our courses offer industry recognised qualifications
- the third 'happiest' profession in the UK is plumbing
- once qualified, plumbers can charge up to £500 per day