Plumbing and Electrical Installation

Building the Future

Introduced in September 2021, a new suite of qualifications were introduced across Wales that has been developed with employers to better meet the skills needs of the built environment sector in Wales.

The change aims to simplify the complex landscape of more than 400 qualifications in construction and building services in Wales and to ensure you are better prepared for careers across the sector. There’ll be an increased focus on new and traditional techniques, on knowledge of the industry as a whole and on the generic skills needed to progress into work from education.

The Foundation Qualification for Building Engineering Services is a brand new qualification where you study two trade experiences:

b Plumbing and Domestic Heating b Electro technical systems and equipment (Electrical Installation).

The Building Engineering Services industry has around three million workers in the UK, making it one of the country’s biggest employers. The industry requires a large number of newly trained operatives each year in order to keep up with demand. Jobs are available across all areas and with salaries rising at the moment, there has never been a better time to join this rewarding industry. Training takes place in spacious and well equipped workshops where students have the chance to develop new knowledge and skills which will equip them for a successful career in the construction industry.

What will I do?

Tuition is carried out by industrially experienced and qualified staff who focus on developing students' skills. Whilst you will initially study for both electrical and plumbing trades, you will later choose one pathway.

You will cover practical craft skills, job knowledge and advanced trade techniques in plumbing and electrical installation. You will also learn the interpretation of construction drawings and the calculation of materials and costings. Students are also encouraged to participate in skills competitions as a means of enhancing their practical ability and developing higher level skills.

Assessment

To achieve this qualification, students will complete a range of internally and externally set projects, guided discussions and multichoice tests.

‘‘The past year has been one of our best for high results in exams” Lecturer, James Seddon “The College has amazing staff, amazing people. I love it. It’s never too late to change career or learn something new.” Monika Dent .

Progression

You may progress to a second year full-time programme in both trade areas or secure an apprenticeship as a plumber or electrician and further your studies with us along one specific pathway.

Who is the qualification for?

It is suitable for: Learners aged 16+ currently working in or intending to work in the construction and building engineering services sectors. Site operatives who want to widen their knowledge, understanding and skills in the sector more generally. Learners will need to have achieved, or be working towards their Level 2 Essential Skills English and Maths (or equivalent). There are no other additional entry requirements for this qualification.

Courses

Career-Focused Courses Level Entry Requirements Duration Location Foundation in Building Engineering Services 2 GCSE in English and Maths, grade D or above. 1-2 Years Newtown Diploma in Plumbing Studies (Plumbing and Heating) 2 GCSEs in English/Welsh, Maths/ Numeracy at grade A*–C. 1 Year Newtown

Diploma in Electrical Installation 2 GCSEs in English/Welsh, Maths/ Numeracy and Science at grade A*-D 1 Year Newtown

Electrical Services Engineering (Electrical Installation and Maintenance) 3 5 GCSEs at grade C or above 1 Year Newtown

Average annual earnings (Emsi - economicmodeling.com)