Plumbing – City and Guilds Level 3 Technical Diploma

Level: 3 | Duration: 1 Year | Start Date: September

What is this course about?
You will learn about different types of plumbing systems including cold, hot, central heating, sanitation and drainage and how to plan and design these systems. We will also cover how these systems should be set up to run properly, efficiently and safely. You will then work on these systems in our workshops.

Why choose to study this course at Riverside College?
Our new purpose-built workshops at the Kingsway Campus have been developed to accommodate all the necessary facilities and equipment you could hope for and help you to achieve the best results. Our team of lecturers and assessors are experienced in all types of Plumbing and have a wealth of knowledge to pass on to our students. As part of your studies, it is also expected that you will undertake some work experience in the community as this will add to your experience of work situations.

What will I learn on this course?
The course will cover the following topics: Complex Hot and Cold-water Systems. Sanitation, Central Heating and Gas Installation. You will install and commission systems. You will fit systems in a workshop setting and then check that operate correctly and efficiently. You will learn to fault find and diagnose system faults. There is an amount of electrical knowledge required to complete the course at Level 3. Studies include the relevant legislation including, gas, electrical, building regulations. You will also study the codes of practice that must be adhered by people working within the industry.

Entry Requirements:
Level 2 Plumbing Diploma or equivalent qualification and GCSE Grade 4 in English and Maths.

What will this course lead on to?
The course is designed as an advanced level that will teach the skills and processes required to pursue a career in Plumbing as an apprentice or trainee plumber. It builds on the level 2 Plumbing Qualification and it supports the requirements that are needed to complete a plumbing apprenticeship.

Enrichment Opportunities:
The College has a full enrichment programme, and all learners are expected to make the most of their time with us, why not enjoy your free time with your tutor group. New enrichment activities include various sports tournaments, table tennis, X-Box competitions, remote control model racing. There will also be various trips and visits throughout the year.

How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed throughout the year on both practical and theory assessments. All learning throughout the year will prepare you for an end point practical assessment and an end point theory exam.

Are additional costs?
For each practical lesson, you will be asked to wear safety clothing, so you will need to purchase work trousers, safety boots, two Riverside College Plumbing Polo shirts, stationary equipment and ring binder with note paper. Students will also need to purchase Plumbing textbooks that will cost approximately £25.

What have previous students said about this course?
“I am enjoying my course and I really enjoy working on my own in the workshop”

“The teachers are very supportive”

I really enjoyed my work placement and now looking forward to progressing onto an apprenticeship.”