Plumbing and domestic heating technician
Level 3 · AdvancedConstruction and the built environment 4 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 3 apprenticeship qualifies you as a competent plumber and domestic heating engineer, covering water systems, sanitation, central heating, and gas appliances in residential and commercial properties. You will design, install, commission, and maintain plumbing and heating systems to industry standards. It can lead to gas safe registration, self-employment, or progression into commercial heating, project management, or training roles.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Cold and hot water system design, installation, and fault-finding
Central heating system installation, commissioning, and maintenance
Sanitation and drainage systems including soil, waste, and rainwater
Gas safety regulations and working towards Gas Safe competences
Electrical safety for plumbers and understanding control systems
Environmental considerations including water efficiency and heat pumps
Health and safety including working at height and in confined spaces
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Install cold and hot water systems, pipework, and fittings in properties
Fit and commission central heating systems including radiators and boilers
Install bathrooms, kitchens, and sanitation systems to specification
Carry out planned maintenance and fault diagnosis on heating systems
Test and commission gas appliances safely under supervision
Identify and resolve leaks, blockages, and pressure faults
Complete job documentation and compliance records for each installation
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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