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W WELCOME
elcome to the autumn edition of HIP Magazine! With the new academic year now in full swing, this issue is packed with useful content to help you get stuck in - from step-by-steps and revision tips to quizzes and hands-on challenges. And of course, our Epic Fail section is back with a few cautionary tales from the trade!
We’re also gearing up for competition season. Entries are now open for HIP Learner of the Year and HIP Female Skills 2026, and we’ll be hitting the road again from January to meet learners across the country. These competitions are an excellent way to push yourself, gain real confidence, and connect with others in the industry - and they’re backed by manufacturers who genuinely want to support the next generation.
If you’d like to take part, chat to your lecturer and get your entry in by the end of November. You never know, you might be the one taking home the title next year.
Wishing you a great start to the year - keep learning, keep progressing, and make it count.
Enjoy this issue!
Celia Matthews Editor
SHOUT OUT!
“THE PLUMBING MAGAZINE THAT EDUCATES THE NEXT GENERATION”
Gracie-Anne Mason-Edwards (South & City College Birmingham) – finalist at this year’s HIP Female Skills competition, is now starting her apprenticeship with Viessmann UK, one of our key sponsors. Well done, Gracie - a great example of how taking part in competitions gets you noticed!
SNG Publishing Ltd, 2025
We are Viessmann Climate Solutions
Founded in 1917 as a heating technology manufacturer, and now part of Carrier, today we are one of the world’s leading providers of efficient climate (heating, water and air quality) and renewable energy solutions.
Creating living spaces for generations to come –this is the responsibility that we take on every day together with our (trade) partners.
www.viessmann.co.uk
DIGITAL COLUMN
SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS FOR APPRENTICES
Make your profile work as hard as you do - from finding opportunities to building your brand.
■ HOW SOCIAL MEDIA CAN HELP YOUR CAREER:
Used well, social media can give your career a real kick-start. You can:
■ Attract employers looking for enthusiastic apprentices
■ Build a personal brand that could lead to selfemployment
■ Connect with mentors and experienced tradies
■ Get noticed by tool brands for sponsorships
■ Even earn extra cash through brand deals or affiliate links
■ SOCIAL MEDIA DO'S AND DON’TS FOR APPRENTICES
DO:
■ Post regularly - it shows you're engaged and developing your skills
■ Be yourself - personality makes your profile stand out
■ Get permission - always check before filming or posting on-site
■ Tag relevant accounts - your employer (with permission), tool brands or colleges - you might get a reshare
DON'T:
“DON’T OVERTHINK IT - POLISHED CONTENT IS GREAT, BUT REAL AND HONEST WORKS TOO”
■ Share customers’ private details - keep addresses and personal info confidential
■ Post rants - avoid negative posts about clients or colleagues
■ Show unsafe practices - always wear PPE and follow health and safety rules
■ Overthink it - polished content is great, but real and honest works too
ME!
PLUMBER. INFLUENCER. CHAMPION OF THE TRADE.
“THE BEST PLUMBERS I’VE TRAINED LEARNT ON THE JOB”
Q: How did you get into plumbing?
A: I left school at 16 and started working with fibrous plastering - I hated it. I went on a job course and wanted to be a joiner, but my last placement was with a plumbing firm. They gave me a job and put me through college. I loved it straight away - solving problems, helping people, and earning a decent living. It’s still rewarding.
Q: What do you love most about it?
A: Fixing things others can’t. After 46 years, you learn a few tricks! I’ve run my own business for 36 years and trained loads of apprentices - it keeps me young. Apart from the knees!
Q: Where did “I Love Plumbing” come from?
A: A mate of mine set up a Twitter account for me as a joke. I posted a dusty video from work saying, “That’s why I love plumbing!” - and it stuck. It was half a moan, but people loved it. I’ve been saying it ever since.
Q: What’s the online response been like?
A: Brilliant - and surreal. Once, when I was in Colombia, someone shouted 'I love plumbing’ at me! I enjoy it because people feel like they can talk to me. I’m not trying to be a legendI just want to share what I know and help others.
Q: Best advice for new plumbers?
A: Be prepared - it’s hard graft. I’ve fitted two heating systems a week on my own for years. But it’s a great trade if you’re up for it. You’ll meet great people and learn something every day.
Q: One thing you wish you’d known as an apprentice?
A: I had loads of mentors and learnt the best bits from each of them. A lot of young plumbers only learn from one person - so I always say: go on courses, learn from everyone, and stay curious.
Q: Favourite tool?
A: Multi-tool. Total game-changer.
Q: What would you change in the industry?
A: Make it easier to hire apprentices. There’s too much red tape and not enough hands-on learning. The best plumbers I’ve trained learnt on the job.
Q: What’s next?
A: More of the same! I’ve ended up with two full-time jobs – plumbing and social media – but I love both. Still working hard and still loving plumbing.
QUICK STATS
■ 23K+ FOLLOWERS ON INSTAGRAM
■ 46 YEARS IN THE TRADE
■ 36 YEARS RUNNING HIS OWN BUSINESS
■ 2 HEATING SYSTEMS A WEEK - SOLO!
■ 1 TWITTER JOKE THAT BECAME A PERSONAL BRAND
Instantly hot without wasting a drop.
Domestic hot water circulation that doesn’t cost the earth.
The new Yonos PICO-Z range delivers hot water to all outlets without wasting water or running up energy bills.
With stainless steel housing, plug and play wiring, its own insulation shell and simple functions that make your life easy, it’s the perfect choice for you and your customers.
BRONZE OUT, PICO-Z IN
Did you know the ‘bronze age’ of hot water circulators is over? We spoke to Andy Thompson, National Sales Manager - Plumbing & Heating at Wilo UK, to find out what’s replaced it.
■ WHY BRONZE PUMPS ARE NOW OLD NEWS
For years, bronze pumps were the first choice for young installers fitting secondary hot water circulators. They were reliable, familiar, and fairly affordable. But in reality? Their technology is as outdated as an old flip phone.
■ HERE'S WHY IT MATTERS:
Bronze pumps:
■ Only have up to three fixedspeed settings - and can use as much as 100 watts of power.
■ Are heavy and awkward to handle.
■ Have to be manually vented with a screwdriver.
■ Need you to physically unblock the impeller.
■ MEET THE YONOS PICO-Z
Just like smartphones replaced flip phones, the Yonos PICO-Z has replaced the bronze pump.
✓ Made from stainless steel - modern and energy-efficient.
✓ 42 settings for flow rate and constant pressure.
✓ Uses just 4–40 watts of power - saving up to 70% energy compared to bronze pumps.
✓ Easy to fit - tool-free wiring and a rotatable pump head for vertical or horizontal pipes.
✓ Automatic or manual venting and automatic deblocking - so maintenance is simple.
“THE YONOS PICO-Z HAS REPLACED THE BRONZE PUMP”
■ SAME PRICEMUCH BETTER PUMP
The best part? The Yonos PICO-Z costs the same as the old SB 30 bronze pump it replaces.
SCAN ME!
Discover more about Wilo’s Yonos PICO-Z
5 Year Warranty
Industries longest battery life with Li-ion battery
6 Lines touch screen colour display
Display gas pressure and combustion measurements at the same time
Standard Bluetooth® communication for use with MRU4U mobile app
MEASURE WITH CONFIDENCE
Plumbing students learning flue gas testing will find the RASI300 and RASI300C easy to use, with all the features needed for domestic and commercial work.
■ WHY CHOOSE RASI300/300C?
■ 10-year warranty –including O2 and CO sensors (with annual service)
■ Long-life sensors –meaning less downtime
■ Ready for the future –20% hydrogen-ready
■ Fully compliant –BS7967 and TB143
■ UK-based servicing –and set service costs
■ WHAT’S IN THE KIT?
■ Velocity tool bag
■ Rechargeable batteries and chargers
■ Calibration certificate and spare filters
■ Optional printer and NO/NOx sensor upgrades
The RASI300 range makes testing simple and reliable, helping you work confidently with Eurotron Instruments UK.
■ FEATURES YOU’LL ACTUALLY USE:
■ Bluetooth® connectivity with the MRU4U app (iOS/Android)
■ Data logging with site ID and SD card
■ HANDY MENUS FOR:
■ Flue gas
■ Tightness and let-by tests
■ CO room build-up
■ Draught and gas pressure
■ T-flow/T-return
■ Displays O2, CO (H2 compensated), CO2, ratio, temperatures, efficiencies, excess air, flue gas dewpoint
READY TO WIN?
Andrew Macavoy is Plumbing Tutor at Hugh Baird College. Here, he shares five tried-and-tested steps to help you stand out and reach your potential.
I’ve always encouraged learners to enter competitionsand when I’m asked why, the answer’s simple: it’s your chance to build the financially secure future you’re dreaming of. Honestly, there’s no downside.
The next question I often hear is, “But how can I win? There are so many people better than me!” A fair point – and that’s exactly why I’ve developed these five steps to success. I’ve trained champions, and now some of those same competitors and trainers are helping others win too.
STEP
1:
■ COMMITMENT
You’ve got to be committed. Ask your tutors if you can do extra practical sessions. If they say yes – take the opportunity! It’ll also help with your course.
STEP
2:
■ TARGET SETTING
Pick one skill – say, bending passovers – and set a performance target. Work on consistency. Improve the technique. Then move the target up again.
STEP 3:
■ PRACTISE
And then practise again. You get the idea.
STEP 4:
■ STAY POSITIVE AND MINDFUL
Look after yourself. A focused mind helps your skills improve faster.
STEP 5:
■ INVEST IN TOOLS
Get the best equipment you can. If that’s not possible, revisit step 1 – there’s often free kit available.
“WORK ON CONSISTENCY. IMPROVE THE TECHNIQUE. THEN MOVE THE TARGET UP AGAIN”
A massive congratulations and a huge round of applause to our new PolyPlumb Enhanced Ambassadors, Meg and Daisy. Our judging panel was thoroughly impressed by their talent and potential, and we’re confident they’ll be phenomenal ambassadors in the year ahead!
We can’t wait to see the impact Meg and Daisy will make! Meg, PolyPlumb® Enhanced Ambassador @gas.lass Daisy, PolyPlumb® Enhanced @dtplumbing_Ambassador
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE HEALTH & SAFETY
JERRY WHITELEY Technical Manager, Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE)
HEALTH & SAFETY ESSENTIALS
Whether you’re on-site or in training, a solid understanding of health and safety is a vital part of working in the trades.
Have a go at answering the following questions to see how much you know.
Q1 Which Act of Parliament is the key piece of Health and Safety legislation in the UK?
Answer: Q2 Under section 2 of the HASAWA, what is the duty of every employer?
Answer:
Q3 Under the CDM regulations, what three points should everyone involved in a construction project be working towards?
Answers:
Q4 Who is responsible for providing PPE?
Answer:
Q5 What does COSHH stand for?
Answer:
Q6 What does RIDDOR stand for?
Answer:
Q7 What do the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 relate to?
Answer:
Q8 Which government body enforces health and safety legislation?
Answer:
Q9
Identify the following safety sign types:
Answers:
Q10 What are the three ways in which lead can enter the body?
Answers:
Q11 What are Chrysotile, Amosite and Crocidolite?
Answer:
Q12 Which four types of injuries are classified as minor?
Answers:
Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
REVISION GUIDE BY ANDREW MACAVOY
Plumbing Tutor at Hugh Baird College
HEALTH & SAFETY
QUIZ
Put your health and safety knowledge to the test with this revision quiz, created to help you prep with confidence.
Have a go at answering these multiple-choice questions to see how much you know!
Q1
According to the HSE, what are the five steps in a risk assessment?
Identify hazards, evaluate risks, record significant findings, review assessment, control B
Identify harms, identify hazards, record significant findings, react, report
Evaluate risks, eliminate all hazards, record significant findings, report, respond Q3
Does the HSE need to be notified in advance for a project exceeding 500 person-days?
What is the maximum fine and prison sentence if HSE prosecutes in a Magistrates’ Court?
A £10,000 and 6 months
B £20,000 and 6 months C
Unlimited fine and up to 6 months’ imprisonment
£20,000 and 12 months
The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 aim to:
Prevent contamination, misuse, and wastage of water
Prevent undue consumption and erroneous metering
Prevent crosscontamination with sewage
All of the above
Q11 Which of the following are mandatory under health and safety law? Ans.
A Acts of Parliament B Regulations
C HSE Guidance Notes
D Both a and b
Self-cleaning fluxes can contain:
Rosin
Solvents
Hydrochloric acid
All of the above
What is the scientific name for white asbestos?
Amosite
Crocidolite
Chrysotile
Tremolite Q15 Which of the following is not included in the PPE Regulations?
Which of the following are covered by COSHH regulations?
Fluxes
Cutting oils
Lead D All of the above
PPE must be compatible if more than one item is worn
B PPE must be maintained, cleaned or replaced
C Employers must ensure PPE is used
D PPE must be provided by employees
Q16 What is the most effective way to deal with a hazard?
A Wear PPE
B Complete a risk assessment C Use a safe system of work D Eliminate the hazard
Stop Scale Before It Starts
With the CALEFFI eCAL®
Key features:
Prevents limescale without altering water chemistry, making it safe for use with potable water.
Converts scale-forming calcite into soft, nonadhering aragonite crystals.
Long-lasting performance with 7-year average cartridge lifespan. Integrated filtration and magnet.
VDI 2035: WHY IT MATTERS
Heard of VDI 2035 yet? If not, you soon will. Ed Morris, Technical Manager at Altecnic, explains this chemical-free way to protect heating systems.
SO, WHAT IS VDI 2035?
VDI 2035 is a smart way of treating the water inside heating systems. Instead of using chemical inhibitors to slow down corrosion (which eventually causes rust), it treats the water before it even gets into the system, so corrosion doesn’t start in the first place.
The key idea? Lower the minerals in the water, especially the ones that help corrosion happen, like calcium, magnesium, and chlorides. Less of those mean less corrosion.
■ HOW DOES IT WORK?
1 Water gets passed through a special resin filter (called a deioniser).
2 This filter strips out the salts and minerals.
3 The treated water is then filled into the heating system.
4 As long as the system stays sealed, the water stays ‘clean’ and won’t cause corrosion.
You don’t need to add chemicals later. No inhibitors. No flushes every few years. Just keep the water pure, and you’re sorted.
■ WHY SHOULD APPRENTICES CARE?
Here’s why this matters:
■ You’ll spend less time on maintenance: No chemical testing, no dosing.
■ You’ll use easy diagnostic tools: Just check conductivity with a meter or keep an eye on the resin cartridge using a flow counter.
■ It’s great for schools, flats, and commercial jobs where access for service can be tricky.
Plus, when you’re working on modern systems (especially those with heat pumps or underfloor heating), manufacturers are more likely to ask for chemical-free systems. Knowing how VDI 2035 works gives you a head start.
SCAN ME!
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE COMMON PLUMBING PROCESSES
JERRY WHITELEY Technical Manager, Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE)
INSTALLATION PROCESSES & TECHNIQUES
Knowing the right tools and techniques for the job is an essential part of being a professional installer.
Test yourself with this fun quiz to see how well you know some of the most common installation tasks and methods.
Q1 Identify which tools you would use for the following tasks:
A. Bending a copper tube offset on-site: Answer:
B. Tightening a compression fitting: Answer:
C. Cutting Polybutylene pipe: Answer:
D. Taking up a floorboard: Answer:
E. Drilling a hole for a boiler flue: Answer:
F. Cutting low carbon steel pipe: Answer:
Q2 Name two reasons for using inserts with plastic push-fit pipe:
Answers:
Q3 What are the two types of capillary fittings?
Answers:
Q4 What is the difference between the two types of compression fittings?
Type A: Answer:
Type B: Answer:
Q5 What is the purpose of flux?
Answer:
Q6 What do the initials MLCP stand for?
Answer:
Q7 What must be done every time you cut tube with a pipe slicer/tube cutter before assembly?
Answer:
Q8 Which plastic pipe types can be solvent welded?
Answer:
Q9 Which solvent weld plastic pipe suffers from UV degradation?
Answer:
Q10 Why must you depth mark a press-fit joint before inserting it?
Answer:
Q11 When working in a private dwelling, what should be your first task before beginning work?
Answer:
Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free.
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n Tried, tested and approved by British Gas
n NHBC approved
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n Manufactured to EN1254 – complies with all current legislations
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n No pipe cutting – particularly useful in awkward places
n Seals holes in 15mm pipe
n Just add flux to the Click Fix, clip it over the hole and heat until a seal is made.
n Available from leading plumbing and heating merchants
Q1
PIPEWORK QUIZ
Test your pipework knowledge by answering the following multiple-choice questions. Good luck!
Which of the following is not a recognised copper pipe size in the UK?
A 10mm
B 15mm
C 22mm
D 31mm
Q2
What can occur if incorrect or undersized pipework is used in a central heating system?
A Excessive streaming noise
B Cavitation of the pump
C Insufficient heat to radiators or underfloor heating
D All of the above
Q3 What is the main purpose of pipe insulation on cold water pipes?
A To make them look better
B To stop them rattling
C To prevent condensation and heat gain
D To help them bend more easily
Which of these is typically used to join copper pipe?
Cable ties B Compression fittings
Wood screws
Plastic solvent weld
What colour is usually associated with hot water pipework in a domestic setting?
tool would you use to cut a copper pipe cleanly?
Screwdriver
Pipe slice
Spirit level
Chisel
Blue
Green
Yellow
Red
RELY ON THE BEST
Seal with LOCTITE® 55 and LOCTITE® 577 –the perfect thread sealing combination. Gas, water, potable water, LPG approved & Hydrogen Gastec QA approval.
LOCTITE 55 Pipe Sealing Cord
Already the installers choice for modern, cost-efficient installations:
• New improved pack
• Fast and easy to use
• Instant seal
• Allows reliable re-adjustment of the joint
• Works with metal and plastic joints
LOCTITE
577 Liquid Pipe Sealing
For certain installer applications even LOCTITE 55 can’t achieve:
• For parallel to parallel as well as taper to parallel metal threads
• Seals olives and radiator fittings
• Can be used on oil line fittings
• Locks and seals in any position
• Easily removed with hand tools
• Ideal for threads with short engagement lengths
Save time, no concerns of re-work, neat joint every time. SUITABLE FOR DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
NEW REGULATOR AT A GLANCE
You’ve probably heard of building regulations – but there’s a new organisation, only three years old, making sure standards are as robust as possible: the Building Safety Regulator (BSR).
■ WHAT IS THE BSR?
Set up under the Building Safety Act 2022, the BSR:
■ Regulates higher risk buildings
■ Raises standards across all buildings
■ Ensures professionals in design, construction and building control, including trades such as plumbing, are properly trained and competent
On-site, Local Building Control will inspect your work meets regulations –so you need to know the rules and follow them.
■ WHY DOES IT MATTER?
You’re legally responsible for safe, high-standard work. You must prove you’re competent – “I didn’t know” won’t cut it. Even before finishing a job, you will need to demonstrate you’re qualified and that you are able to do the ranges of work you do.
■ WHAT IS “COMPETENT”?
Being competent means you have the right knowledge, skills and experience – and can prove it.
■ On a Domestic Plumbing and Heating Level 3 apprenticeship? You’re on track.
■ Register with a Competent Person Scheme (CPS). This is usually a business that holds
“KEEP LEARNING, AND TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR WORK!”
the register at a 1:5 ratio – or you can register yourself as a sole trader.
■ CPS checks you meet industry standards (known as Mandatory Technical Competences or MTCs).
■ Already qualified? Keep your skills up to date with Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
■ THE BOTTOM LINE
Whatever you install – boiler, bathroom or heating system – you must be competent and be able to prove it. You need to be able to demonstrate your competency against the MTCs, where applicable.
SCAN ME!
For more information about the CIPHE, please scan the QR Code.
This article has been provided by Jerry Whiteley, Technical Manager of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) .
4 SMART USES FOR THE RSWB
The Walraven RSWB is the modern equivalent of a wooden noggin - just without the hassle! Save time cutting bits of timber by using this adjustable bracket instead.
■ SHOWER VALVE SUPPORTS
Some installers use Walraven RSWBs for shower valves. They can be positioned in any direction and even overlap each other – as seen here in this smart installation by HBS Plumbing & Heating.
■ FLUE FIXING
Flues can be tricky to secure between joists, but Dulwich Plumbing & Heating show how the Walraven RSWB makes a quick and tidy support solution.
■ SECURING SHOWER WASTE PIPES
The Walraven RSWB comes with pre-drilled holes along its length, making it quick to fix clips wherever you need them. It can also be set at different depths to suit various pipe sizes. Here’s an example from Glister Services where it has been used under a shower tray to support the waste pipe neatly and securely.
“THE MODERN EQUIVALENT OF A WOODEN NOGGIN”
■ PIPE FIXING BETWEEN JOISTS
The adjustable bracket simply slides to the width you need and screws into place. Suitable for copper, MLCP and waste pipes, it’s a real time-saver. As Integral Plumbing & Gas, who uses the RSWB regularly, told us: “This is a great time-saver, no more going back and forth cutting 1mm off lengths of timber!”
SCAN ME!
Scan the QR Code for more information.
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE
SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLES
JERRY WHITELEY
Technical Manager, Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE)
SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLES
Understanding scientific principles is key to effective and safe plumbing work - from materials and forces to flow rates and temperature.
Test your knowledge with these questions on the science behind plumbing and heating systems.
Q1 Name four pure metals commonly used in plumbing:
Answers:
Q2 What is an alloy?
Answer:
Q3
Complete the following table:
Length
Mass
Time Seconds
Electric
Thermodynamic
Q4 Natural gas has a specific gravity of 0.7 — what does this mean?
Answer:
Q5 Polybutylene, polyethylene and polypropylene are which kind of plastic?
Answer:
Q6 Give a brief definition of the term ‘tensile strength’:
Answer:
Q7 How many kilojoules would it take to heat 140 litres of water from 4°C to 80°C?
Use the formula: L × ∆t × SHC of water
Answer:
Q8 What is meant by the term ‘static head’?
Answer:
Q9 What are the three methods of heat transfer?
Answers:
Q10 Which type of hard water causes scaling in pipes?
Answer:
Q11 What factors determine the flow rate of cold and hot water systems?
Answers:
Q12 Name the SI unit of force:
Answer: Go to hip-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free.
SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLES
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE SCIENTIFIC
REVISION GUIDE BY ANDREW MACAVOY
PRINCIPLES
Plumbing Tutor at Hugh Baird College
A good understanding of scientific principles is essential for any plumbing professional.
Test your understanding of plumbing science with these multiple-choice questions.
Q1 The change from water to steam is called? Ans.
Condensation
Evaporation
Sublimation
Deposition Q2 Hot water (99°C or less) expands by approximately? Ans.
Q3 Heat travelling through a solid substance is known as? Ans.
Convection
Radiation C Conduction
Latent
Q4 What is the unit of power? Ans.
Joules
Amps C Ohms D Watts
Q5 What is natural gas commonly used for? Ans.
A Refrigeration
B Domestic heating
C Installation of plumbing systems
D Distilled into fuel oil
Q6 Decreasing pipe diameter will? Ans.
A Increase flow, reduce velocity
B Reduce flow, increase velocity
C Increase flow and velocity
D Reduce flow and velocity
Q7 What happens to refrigerant gas when it changes state? Ans.
A Changes to gas
B Changes to liquid
C Changes to solid state
D Nothing – stays the same but more compact
Q8 Temporary hard water has a pH of? Ans.
7
More than 7
Less than 7 D Is acidic
99°C
is the boiling point of water at
100°C
69°C
What is the expansion rate of water when it freezes?
Q11
What is the specific gravity of natural gas?
0.6–0.8
Q14 If water boils at 100°C, what is this in Kelvin?
Q12
1.5
Using the formula: Specific heat (4.186) × kg × temperature rise. How much energy is required to heat 120kg of water by 50°C?
A 209.8 kJ
B 2,678.8 kJ
C 2,089.7 kJ
D 2,511.6 kJ
Q15 If a 100-litre cistern is elevated and opened, what is the force of gravity on the water (kg × 9.81)?
TOP UPYOURTRAINING
HIP has you covered!. Whether you're a learner wanting to boost your understanding or a lecturer looking for ready-to-use resources, our brand-new downloadable worksheets are here to support you.
WHAT’S INCLUDED & THE BENEFITS…
■ Task sheets with matching answer sheets
■ Trade-specific content
■ Ideal for independent learning
■ Helps evidence your off-the-job training hours
■ Easy to download, print, or complete online
■ Suitable for use in college, on-site, or anywhere in between
LET'S MAP IT OUT!
You’ve made a great start – but what’s next? Whether you're an apprentice or full-time learner, you're already on the path to an incredibly rewarding trade.
To become a fully qualified plumber, completing your Level 2 is a great start – but continuing through and gaining your Level 3 is an important step. And here’s why...
Some learners stop at Level 2 – but that’s just the foundation. Level 3 shows employers (and customers) that you’ve mastered more advanced plumbing and heating systems, and that you’re able to work safely, legally and confidently on your own. It also helps you gain on-site, practical experience – the kind of experience that sets you apart and gives you the confidence to take on bigger jobs or lead projects.
The Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard is often seen as the ‘golden ticket’ – it can lead to your CSCS Gold Card and opens up more than just the chance to work. With experience, it can lead to management, design, renewables, or even teaching. Which route are you on?
■ THERE ARE TWO COMMON WAYS TO MOVE THROUGH THE TRADE:
■ Diploma route – starting at Level 1, then progressing through Level 2 and Level 3 (or a T-Level), and then into work, an HNC, or even a degree.
■ Apprenticeship route – a 4-year programme starting at Level 3, which includes work-based learning, Gas Safe (in the fourth year), and the chance to move on to an HNC or HND. Other routes may include renewables such as solar thermal and heat pumps, or non-domestic plumbing.
Already done a diploma but now want to switch to an apprenticeship? That’s possible too – your previous qualifications may count towards the apprenticeship (APL), so you might start part-way through.
"I
nearly stopped after Level 2 – but I’m so glad I stuck with it. Level 3 gave me the confidence to go out on my own and start taking on bigger jobs." – Callum, 25, Heating Engineer
■ IMPORTANT NEXT STEPS FOR YOUR PLUMBING CALENDAR:
■ Completing your Level 3 qualification (Diploma or Standard)
■ Building experience through real-life jobs and responsibilities
■ Gaining extra qualifications in hot water systems, water regs or renewables
■ Exploring other options such as project management, teaching, or going self-employed
TOP TIP
Keep learning beyond the standard curriculum to strengthen your career.
STAY SHARP, GO FURTHER
Once you’re qualified, keeping your skills up to date is essential – especially with new regulations, safety standards and technologies coming in all the time. Staying sharp means staying ahead.
■ HERE IS A SELECTION OF POPULAR CPD COURSES TO CONSIDER:
■ Water Regulations
■ G3 Hot Water & Unvented Systems
■ Gas Safe (ACS or managed learning programme)
■ HOW TO ACCESS SHORT COURSES:
To take most CPD or short courses, you’ll need to have completed an NVQ Level 2 (or higher). If you’ve done the Diploma only, you can usually upgrade it to an NVQ – but this comes at a cost, and involves on-site assessments.
If you’ve completed the Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard, you’ll already meet the requirements for a wide range of short courses – including Gas ACS, Part L, unvented systems and more. Extend your learning with a ventilation coursenow becoming mandatory in building projects.
■ Renewable Technologies (e.g. heat pumps, solar thermal, underfloor heating)
TOP TIP
Keeping a record of your future CPD is very important when you have to prove continuous learning.
WANT TO GO FURTHER?
Once you’re qualified, your journey doesn’t stop. Whether you stay on the tools or move into something new, there are plenty of ways to grow your skills and shape your future.
■ OPTIONAL NEXT STEPS FOR SPECIALIST OR SENIOR ROLES:
■ Teaching or Assessor qualifications (for FE colleges or private centres)
■ Business management or finance short courses
■ Estimating or Quantity Surveying roles (for those interested in pricing and planning)
■ Site Supervisor or Contracts Manager pathways
■ Commercial Plumbing (HVAC or HVACR with refrigeration)
■ CAD and design software training (for system planning)
■ Cross-training into Electrical (common in commercial settings)
■ Progression to Level 4 (HNC) or Level 5 (HND) in Building Services Engineering
■ Degree-level routes into design, education or management
Think beyond today: build a career, not just a job.
Working on the tools is a great way to learn – but it’s wise to start thinking about your next move once you’ve built up some solid experience. Many plumbers go on to become site managers, assistant site managers or trade supervisors, and they’re often earning more and working safer.
■ SUCCESS STORY:
Andy's friend Carl completed his apprenticeship and then went on to gain a Level 7 qualification in Contracts Management and now earns over £70k managing projects. It just shows what’s possible when you build on your trade experience.
If your goal is to run your own business, gain as much on-site experience, confidence and business know-how as you possibly can. It all pays off when you’re working for yourself.
“I MOVED INTO TEACHING AFTER 10 YEARS ON THE TOOLS – IT’S GREAT TO PASS THAT KNOWLEDGE ON”
Chris, Plumbing Lecturer
WANT TO BE IN CHARGE?
Fancy working for yourself? Many qualified plumbers eventually go self-employed or start their own company. If you’ve got the skills, the demand is there – but it pays to get the business side sorted too.
■ CHECKLIST TO START OUT:
■ Register as a sole trader or limited company
■ Get public liability insurance
■ Join CIPHE - the professional body for the plumbing and heating industry
■ Set up a simple system for quoting and invoicing
■ Start building local awareness – through a website, word of mouth and social media
You don’t need a business degree – just a clear plan, good service, and the drive to make it work.
“GOING SOLO WAS A CHALLENGE, BUT I’VE NOW GOT REGULAR CUSTOMERS AND LOVE BEING IN
Many local enterprise hubs and trade associations offer free or low-cost business training.
PLAN YOUR PATH YOUR WAY
Your career can go in many directions – domestic installs, commercial sites, renewables or leading your own team. It all depends on what you enjoy.
■ QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF:
■ Do I enjoy maintenance and repairs or installation work more?
■ Would I rather be out on the road or leading a team?
■ Do I want to specialise – or keep things broad?
■ WHATEVER YOUR ANSWER – HERE’S HOW TO TAKE YOUR NEXT STEP:
■ Finish your apprenticeship and become fully qualified
■ Choose a CPD route or add a specialism
■ Talk to someone already doing what you’d like to do
■ Keep learning and stay open to opportunities
Your next step might just be the start of something brilliant. Here’s to a future you can build your way!
TOP TIP
Ask questions, stay open, and make your path your own - whether that means staying with your employer to grow and develop in a secure role, or branching out when the time’s right. Both can lead to a brilliant future!
“THERE’S NO FIXED ROUTE – JUST WHAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU. YOUR JOURNEY DOESN’T STOP WHEN YOU QUALIFY – IT STARTS THERE!”
ARE YOU READY TO RUN A BUSINESS?
Good plumbing skills are just one part of being selfemployed. How much do you know about working with customers, managing money and staying professional? Put
Q5 What should you do if you accidentally cause damage at a job? Ans.
A Try to hide it
B Be honest and let the customer know
C Leave without saying anything
Q6 Why do tradespeople add a mark-up to materials?
A To reduce their income
B To cover costs and make a fair profit
C To overcharge the customer
Which of these shows good customer service?
A Being professional and respectful
B Turning up late without explanation
C Leaving tools and mess behind
If a customer misses a payment, what’s a good first step?
Send a polite reminder
Share their details on social media
Leave it and hope they pay eventually
Why is it important to track income and expenses?
A To monitor profit and manage your business properly B It isn’t necessary unless you hire an accountant C So you can take more time off
Whatever you feel most comfortable wearing
Clean and appropriate workwear
Leaving everything to memory
SPAGHETTI ANYONE?
While many plumbers do a great job, beware of the havoc-wreaking cowboys! We’ve teamed up with On The Tools to bring you our regular rogues' gallery.
HIP HANDBOOK - YOUR COURSE COMPANION OUT IN JANUARY
SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO SUPPORT THE NEXT GENERATION OF THE PLUMBING INDUSTRY
