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HIP Magazine Summer 2026 issue

Page 1


copper pressfittings for air conditioning and cooling applications

EDITOR: CELIA MATTHEWS celia.matthews@sng-group.co.uk

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: LEE OWEN design@sng-group.co.uk

DIGITAL MANAGER: PHOEBE MANSFIELD phoebe.mansfield@sng-group.co.uk

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: PATRICK BLORE patrick.blore@sng-group.co.uk

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: SARAH HERNE sarah.herne@sng-group.co.uk

EVENT MANAGER: REISS BASSETT reiss.bassett@sng-group.co.uk

MARKETING MANAGER: SAMANTHA COLE samantha.cole@sng-group.co.uk

MANAGING DIRECTOR: ZOË TANNER zoe.tanner@sng-group.co.uk

PRINTERS: Stephens & George, Wales

GENERAL ENQUIRIES

To subscribe to HIP call 0121 779 0888 or subscribe online at www.hip-magazine.co.uk

DISCLAIMER

This publication is produced by SNG Publishing Ltd, trading as The SNG Group (SNG).

All content and artwork are © SNG or its contributors.

All brands, logos and titles published under The SNG Group, including associated magazine and digital titles, are trademarks of SNG unless otherwise stated.

No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, transmitted or published in any form or by any means without prior written permission.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication, SNG does not verify any claims or other information appearing in advertisements or sponsored content and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the content, artwork, opinions or advice contained herein. This publication does not constitute professional advice.

Advertisements are accepted for publication subject to SNG’s standard terms and conditions of advertising.

There’s plenty to get stuck into in this edition, from practical step-bysteps to quick reads you can dip into between sessions. And if you fancy something a bit lighter, don’t miss our Epic Fail feature at the back… some are honest mistakes, others are a reminder of why doing the job properly really matters.

It’s also a big issue for us, as we celebrate the winners of this year’s HIP Learner of the Year and HIP Female Skills competitions. We’ve been travelling across the country over the past few months, and seeing the quality of work on display first-hand has been brilliant. The standard this year has been incredibly high, with learners showing real focus, determination and pride in their work.

If you’ve been thinking about entering, take this as your sign. Competitions are a great way to challenge yourself, build confidence and stand out. Speak to your lecturer and get involved in 2027.

A big shout out to the manufacturers who continue to support these competitions and help create opportunities for the next generation coming through the industry.

Enjoy this edition, and your summer break!

© SNG Publishing Ltd (trading as The SNG Group), 2026

“THE PLUMBING MAGAZINE THAT EDUCATES THE NEXT GENERATION”

DIGITAL COLUMN

SOCIAL MEDIA THAT WORKS FOR YOUR FUTURE

■ WHY SOCIAL MEDIA MATTERS IN THE TRADES:

Many employers now check Instagram, TikTok or LinkedIn before interviews - so make your feed work for you.

USED WELL, IT CAN HELP YOU:

■ Show your work ethic and skill progression to employers

■ Start building a portfolio before you’re fully qualified

■ Learn tips from experienced tradespeople

■ Attract future customers if you go self-employed

■ Stand out from other apprentices

You don’t need to be an influencer to use social media well. For apprentices and students, having a solid social media presence can help you get noticed, document your progress and open doors to future employment opportunities. 2. 3.

■ WHAT TO POST (EVEN IF YOU’RE JUST STARTING):

You don’t need to have years of experience - people love seeing the journey.

CONTENT IDEAS:

■ FILMING BASICS:

Here are some top tips for filming content with your phone:

TOP TIPS:

■ Your first time using a new tool

■ Learning at college vs on site

■ “What I learned this week”

■ Before and after photos (with permission)

■ Mistakes you learned from

■ Tool reviews on a budget

■ Exam or assessment prep tips

■ Film vertically (9:16) for TikTok, Reels and Shorts

■ Clean your camera lens

■ Use natural light where possible

■ Keep clips short (5-20 seconds)

■ Film more than you think you need

PHOEBE MANSFIELD DIGITAL MANAGER

Assistant App

Favourites

Quick access to your tools & products

Pump Dimensioning

Efficient dimensioning of new pumps

Download now

Offline manuals

Installation & operating guides

Hydraulic balancing

Easy calculations with additional valves

Free app for your workday

learner

THE FINALISTS

SEVEN OF THE BEST

Seven of the country's best plumbing and heating students and apprentices came together at Barnsley College Construction Centre on 29th and 30th April for an intense two-day challenge, and only one could take the title!

■ HOW THE TEST WAS MARKED

Competitors were assessed on essential industry skills, including:

■ Precision measuring and levelling

■ Pipe bending

■ Press-fitting

■ Soldering

■ Efficient use of materials

■ Tidiness

■ Safe use of power tools

■ Correct PPE compliance

■ THE ROAD TO VICTORY

After competing in six regional heats across the country, seven talented Level 2 and Level 3 finalists earned their place at the Grand Final. Practical skills, problem-solving and industry knowledge were all put to the test across two days. Daniel Roberts of Coleg y Cymoedd was named HIP Learner of the Year 2026 Winner, with Sonny Bridge of Bridgwater College awarded Runner-Up.

JASON ROSS Nescot College
JACK MARTIN Burnley College
SONNY BRIDGE Bridgwater College

FINALISTS

■ MEET OUR JUDGES

■ Andy Beresford – EAL (Enginuity) ■ Mark Killy –WaterSafe Register ■ Glenn Scholfield and Will Scholfield - Aalberts IPS ■ Lauren Mason – Viessmann

"We are proud to have been headline sponsors of this fantastic competition. We witnessed some exceptional talent and it was an honour to be part of such a memorable occasion. We’re already looking forward to 2027!"

Nicola Rothwell - Packaging & Marketing Manager - OB1

■ WHY ENTER?

Gain confidence. Improve your skills. Boost your CV. Get noticed.

HIP Learner of the Year has helped launch careers for over a decade – 2027 could be your moment!

learner of the year 2027

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

A huge thank you to the sponsors and supporters who made HIP Learner of the Year 2026 possible:

MAXTON YOUNG Leeds College of Building, South Bank Campus
DYLAN DICKSON Coleg Llandrillo
PATRYK PLUTA Tresham College, Wellingborough Campus
DANIEL ROBERTS Coleg y Cymoedd, Ystrad Mynach Campus

MEET THE RUNNER-UP

SONNY BRIDGE

BRIDGWATER COLLEGE

“ I WASN'T EXPECTING IT!”
“THERE'S SO MANY PEOPLE, AND JUST WALKING AROUND THE STANDARD IS REALLY HIGH”
“IT'S GOOD TO BE COMPETITIVE, TRYING TO PUSH YOUR SKILLS TO THE LIMIT AND GET THE MOST OUT OF YOURSELF THAT YOU CAN. IT'S JUST A BIT OF A CONFIDENCE BOOST”
“I REALLY LIKED THE RUNS ON THE BOILER. IT'S JUST QUITE HAVINGSATISFYING THEM ALL COMING DOWN TOGETHER”

THE WINNER IS … DANIEL ROBERTS

COLEG Y CYMOEDD, YSTRAD MYNACH CAMPUS

“IT FELT AMAZING, REALLY. I WASN'T EXPECTING IT!”

“IT WAS CHALLENGINGQUITE TO BE FAIR, THE BALANCE BETWEEN CRIMP FITTINGS AND SOLDERED WAS PERFECT. MY FAVOURITE PART WAS PROBABLY DOING THE RADIATOR. I QUITE ENJOY THAT”

“I REALLY ENJOYED MYSELF OVER THE TWO DAYS, MORE THAN I'VE ENJOYED ANY OTHER COMPETITION, TO BE HONEST”

“IT WAS NICE MEETING EVERYONE, ALL THE BOYS WERE LOVELY, ALL MINGLED VERY WELL. AND IT WAS NICE TO HEAR ABOUT THEIR EXPERIENCES IN THE PLUMBING WORLD, COMPARED TO MINE”

“PRIZES ARE UNREAL. I COULDN'T BELIEVE HOW MUCH I WON!”

“IF ANYONE HAS EVER ASKED YOU TO DO A PLUMBING COMPETITION, JUST SAY YES STRAIGHT AWAY. YOU'LL LOVE IT. IS IT THE BEST THING YOU'LL EVER DO”

Female Skills

THE FINAL I

RAISING THE BAR!

Four years in and going from strength to strength, the HIP Female Skills Competition is the go-to stage for female apprentice and student plumbers to prove their talent, build confidence, and launch their careers.

■ THE JOURNEY (FEB-MAR)

■ MEET OUR JUDGES

■ Mark Killy - WaterSafe Register

■ Glenn Scholfield and Will Scholfield - Aalberts IPS

■ Toni Oakley-Tulk and Lauren Mason - Viessmann Ltd

“ A BRILLIANT SHOWCASE OF PLUMBING TALENT AND POTENTIAL”

The hunt for the country's most talented female plumbers began in February, with learners competing nationwide. Working to a deadline, their plumbing skills were tested across key tasks. Six finalists were chosen to go head-to-head in the grand final.

■ THE FINAL (APR)

On Tuesday 22nd April, at Stephenson College in Coalville, all six finalists stepped up for a live practical test that put their abilities firmly to the test. Bronwen Evans from Cardiff and Vale College rose to the occasion to claim the title, while Danni Lee from Suffolk New College delivered a standout performance to take the Runner-Up spot, a fitting end to a brilliantly contested final.

“It was inspiring to see such talented finalists pushing themselves throughout the competition. The quality of work and determination on display really highlights the future strength of the industry”

Lauren Mason - Residential Gas Product Manager, Viessmann Ltd

MEET

2026 SPONSORS

A

“DO YOU KNOW WHAT? I THINK I’M GOING TO ACTUALLY TRY AND START BELIEVING IN MYSELF A BIT MORE BECAUSE I CLEARLY DON’T!”
“I WAS GENUINELY VERY SHOCKED” “THE WASSTANDARD SO TODAY!”GOOD “ALL THE GIRLS ARE LOVELY”
“DAYS LIKE TODAY... JUST BUILD CONFIDENCE EVERY TIME AND I THINK THAT’S IMPORTANT”

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MEET THE WINNER! BRONWEN EVANS

CARDIFF AND VALE COLLEGE

“COULD NOT BELIEVE IT AT ALL!”

“I’M IN SHOCK!COMPLETE I DON’T FEEL WORTHY!”

“I THREW MY ABSOLUTE ALL AT THIS ROUND OF THE COMPETITION BECAUSE I THOUGHT I’M NOT GOING TO WIN SO WHY NOT TRY ANYWAY, AND OBVIOUSLY IT’S PAID OFF!”

“IT’S REALLY KIND OF THE SPONSORS TO THROW ALL OF THESE PIECES OF KIT AT US, IT’S VERY GENEROUS”

“SPENDING TIME WITH THE GIRLS, WE’LL DEFINITELY BE FRIENDS AFTER THIS. THAT’S LIKE MEANT A LOT TO ME!”

SCAN ME! to watch the competition highlights

THINK PLUMBING. THINK BIG.

Plumbing can take you further than you think. Lucy Mawer shares her journey from apprentice to Head of Department and why the trade offers limitless opportunity.

■ STARTING OUT ON SITE

My journey into plumbing began in 2001 when I followed a long-held ambition to become a plumbing and heating engineer. I started on site, completing my Level 2 and Level 3 City & Guilds NVQs before running my own business specialising in bathroom installations and heating systems.

■ DISCOVERING A PASSION FOR TEACHING

In 2007, my career took an unexpected turn when I was invited to teach a group of women basic plumbing skills. Passing on my knowledge sparked a new passion. After gaining my teaching qualifications, I moved into education full-time.

Today, I am Head of the Plumbing Department at University Academy Holbeach, leading full-time study programmes and apprenticeships from Level 1 through to Level 3.

■ PROFESSIONAL MILESTONES

Achieving Master Plumber status in 2019 was a proud professional milestone, recognising both technical expertise and commitment to the highest industry standards. Since then, I have had the opportunity to speak at conferences and industry events, championing greater diversity within the plumbing sector and encouraging more young people to recognise the skilled trades as respected, rewarding career pathways.

■ LEARNING ON A GLOBAL STAGE

In 2024, I was awarded the World Plumbing Council United Association Instructor Training Program Scholarship. This international experience exposed me to world-class training facilities, advanced digital learning tools, and the growing focus on sustainability and modern regulations, highlighting how global and forward-thinking our industry has become.

“VERY QUICKLY, PLUMBING BECAME FAR MORE THAN A JOB”

■ WHERE PLUMBING CAN TAKE YOU

What I enjoy most is helping learners realise that plumbing can take you further than you might imagine. You could run your own business, travel the world, influence industry standards, or inspire future generations entering the trade.

Plumbing isn’t simply about pipes and fittings. It’s a career built on opportunity, progression, leadership and lasting impact.

“EVERY DAY BROUGHT NEW CHALLENGES AND REAL SATISFACTION”

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

REVISION GUIDE BY ANDREW MACAVOY

Plumbing Tutor at Hugh Baird College

AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

As the industry shifts towards lowcarbon solutions, air source heat pumps are becoming a key product for plumbers to understand.

Have a go at answering these multiple-choice questions to see how much you know! Q1

For every 1kW of electricity used the heat pump produces?

1-2kW

2-3kW

3-4kW

4-5kW Q3

The refrigerant passes through as gas and becomes liquid in a:

Evaporator

Compressor

Condenser

Expansion valve

Q2 Which option correctly identifies the components labelled A, B, C and D in this refrigeration cycle?

A A: Evaporator, B: Compressor, C: Expansion valve, D: Condenser

B A: Compressor, B: Evaporator, C: Expansion valve, D: Condenser

C A: Condenser, B: Compressor, C: Expansion valve, D: Evaporator

D A: Evaporator, B: Expansion valve, C: Compressor, D: Condenser

Q4 This component transfers heat into the system.

Evaporator

Compressor

Condenser

Expansion valve

Which component changes the state of the refrigerant from liquid to gas exchanging heat absorbing it from the outside air?

Evaporator

Compressor

Condenser

Expansion valve

Which component reduces pressure turning the refrigerant back to gas creating the cold air?

Evaporator

Compressor

Condenser

Expansion valve

A vessel used in heating systems to separate primary and secondary circuits and reduce boiler cycling.

Unvented Cylinder

Direct cylinder

Buffer Tank

Boiler

A valve fitted to heating systems that opens automatically at low temperatures to discharge water and prevent freezing.

Anti-Freeze valve

RPZ Valve

TPR Valve

Isolation Valve

What size pipes connect to an ASHP?

15mm

22mm

28mm

10mm

The only system you need

PolyPlumb® Enhanced represents the modern standard in push‑fit plumbing, trusted by professional installers across the UK for consistent performance and reliability.

Available as a complete system in both grey and white, PolyPlumb® Enhanced provides a dependable solution for all plumbing and heating applications whether you’re working on a first-fix installation or updating a renovation project. It’s the versatile, trade-ready system designed to support every job. Discover the quality for yourself.

• High performance stainless steel grab ring

• Patented In-Cert® feedback technology

• Suitable for most hot & cold water systems

• 50 year guarantee

polypipebp.com/polyplumb

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

REVISION GUIDE BY ANDREW MACAVOY

Tutor at Hugh Baird College

SANITATION

Sanitation is a key part of plumbing, covering everything from basins and baths to correctly sized waste pipes. Knowing how to install and maintain these systems is essential for any plumbing apprentice.

Test your understanding of plumbing sanitation with these multiple-choice questions.

is the preferred method for the condensate discharge?

What is called the effect of an appliance pulling on its own trap when water is discharged down the appliance waste?

Self-siphonage

Induced Siphonage

Wavering out

Compression

Q5 What is the test pressure on the manometer for air testing of drains? Ans.

A 20mbar

B 50mbar

C 32mbar

D 38mbar

Q8

Identify the distance for gutter fascia brackets in a heavy snow area. Ans.

800mm

700mm

600mm

300mm

Q6 What size fuse should a macerator use? Ans.

A 13 amp

B 5 amp

C 3 amp

D 1 amp Q9

Identify the size of waste pipe going to a dishwasher. Ans.

32mm

40mm

50mm

110mm

Q7 Rainwater is classed as which fluid category? Ans.

1

2

4

5 Q10 What is the British Standard for sanitation? Ans.

BS EN 806

BS EN 8558

BS EN 6700

WAVIN AIR TESTING

In this guide, Andrew Coy, Product Manager for Hot and Cold Systems at Wavin, shares why air testing is fast becoming a go-to technique for plumbers looking to deliver reliable, high-quality work.

■ WHY AIR TESTING MATTERS

Proper air testing confirms a system is clean, quiet, and airtight. It's a capability that gives any young plumber confidence that their installation performs exactly as it should.

THE COST OF SKIPPING IT

Pipework that hasn't been properly pressure-checked can result in leaks, a common but costly problem. Air testing is the simplest way to confirm everything is sealed and functioning before any water enters the system. It's safer, no stagnant water sitting in pipes, no risk of bacteria, and faster, because you don't need to wait for anything to dry. And if a leak does appear, finding it with air is far less detrimental than dealing with water gushing across a development.

“AIR TESTING IS BECOMING ONE OF A PLUMBER’S MOST VALUABLE SKILLS”

■ THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB

This is where purpose-designed systems really prove their worth. Wavin's Tigris K5 range uses unique acoustic leak detection technology that makes air testing even easier. As air escapes, it creates a clear audible signal, allowing installers to locate leaks quickly and accurately. It gives newly qualified plumbers confidence that the job is sound and gives customers a system they can rely on long term.

■ A MARK OF PROFESSIONALISM

Air testing is a mark of professionalism, ensuring safety, preventing failures, and proving your work is built to last. Impactful plumbing is not a case of water vs air; it's a case of water and air.

Q11

Which WC pan operates with negative pressure?

A Single Syphonic

B Double Syphonic

C Washdown

D Low level

Q12 Where would you find an AUK2 air gap? Ans.

Basin B Kitchen sink C Toilet cistern D CWSC

What is the trap seal for a WC?

40mm

50mm

60mm

75mm

is the maximum length of 50mm waste pipework?

5mm Q13 Which Building regulation covers disabled bathrooms?

The radius of a long radius bend is what minimum distance?

A Document N B Document M C Document O D Document P

50mm

150mm

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

• Now formulated without PFAS ingredients

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

FUTURE-PROOF THREAD SEALING WITH LOCTITE® 55

For trainee plumbers, choosing the right sealing solution is just as important as applying it correctly. As industry standards evolve, understanding new material requirements is becoming an essential part of the job.

■ UNDERSTANDING PFAS

One area gaining attention is PFAS – a group of chemicals used in some traditional sealing products. With increasing scrutiny and potential future restrictions, many projects are starting to favour alternatives that don’t rely on these substances.

■ A FUTURE-READY SOLUTION

LOCTITE® 55 is a thread sealing cord for gas, water, LPG and compressed air, now formulated without PFAS ingredients. It delivers the same trusted performance, while helping installers stay ahead of changing requirements.

■ QUICK AND EASY TO USE

It’s clean, easy to use and requires no curing time. Simply wrap, cut and tighten into place. Unlike PTFE tape, it doesn’t shred during installation, and joints can still be adjusted without risking leaks.

■ CERTIFIED FOR CONFIDENCE

The product is also certified for use across a wide range of applications, including potable water and gas systems, giving confidence on site.

■ SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

The updated dispenser, made with 70% recycled plastic, features a transparent lid and pre-tensioned cord for smoother, more controlled application.

“LOCTITE®

55 IS A THREAD SEALING CORD FOR GAS, WATER, LPG AND COMPRESSED AIR”

■ THINKING AHEAD

For trainees, the message is simple – the products you learn to use today should not only work well, but also meet the standards of tomorrow. Choosing a futureready solution now helps ensure your installations remain compliant, reliable and professional.

The newly updated heat pump range

VITOCAL 150-A

Offering excellent quality and performance, with environmentally friendly, natural refrigerant R290.

+ Modular units for systems with a buffer tank and without an integrated expansion vessel

+ Compact models with an integrated 190 litre DHW cylinder

+ Hybrid range for existing heating systems

+ Output range from 2.1 to 16 kW

+ 5 year warranty – with an option to extend to 10 years*

+ Flow temperature up to 70ºC

+ High COP up to 5.2 – meaning low operating costs

Find out more: viessmann.co.uk/vitocal

MEASUREMENTS

Getting measurements right is crucial in construction - whether it’s length, weight, or volume, accuracy matters. Take this quick multiple-choice quiz to test your skills. If you ever need a refresher, you can always come back and try again!

Q1 How far is a kilometre (km)? Ans.

A Ten metres

B One hundred metres

C One thousand metres

D One million metres

Q3 Which of these statements is correct? Ans.

A 1 litre = 10ml

B 100ml = 1 litre

C 500ml = Half a litre

D 2000ml = 1 litre

Q5 Which unit of length is most suitable for measuring the height of a room? Ans.

mm

Q2 Which unit of length is the most suitable for measuring the length of a nail?

Q4 A wall is 3m high and 5m long. What is the total area?

Q6

A pipe run requires 4 lengths of 2.4m copper pipe. Each joint requires a 10mm fitting allowance. What is the total length of the pipe run including fittings?

9.6m

9.63m

9.64m

There’s an Ecodan for every home

The Ecodan multi-award-winning range of air source heat pumps, cylinders and controls from Mitsubishi Electric is the smart choice for seamless installations. You can explore the full range all in one place, giving you more choice and flexibility.

WIRELESS ROOM CONTROLLER

ECODAN R32

5kW, 6kW, 8.5kW, 11.2kW, 14kW

*Certified for ultra-low noise levels

ECODAN R290

5kW, 6kW, *8.5kW, *10kW, *12kW

PRE-PLUMBED SLIMLINE

150L, 170L

PRE-PLUMBED STANDARD

150L, 170L, 210L (SMALL), 210L (LARGE), 250L, 300L

PACKAGED 200L

Q7 A pipe length measures 1.5m. How many centimetres is this? Ans.

A 15cm

B 150cm

C 1500cm

D 1.5cm

Q9 A floor measures 4m by 3m. What is the perimeter?

A 7m

B 12m

Q8

A 150 litre cylinder supplies a 55 litre bath and a 35 litre shower. How much water is left?

A 50 litres

56 litres

60 litres

65 litres

C 14m D 24m Q10 A timber length is 2.4m. How many millimetres is this?

24mm

240mm

2400mm

24000mm Q11 A small slab area requires 0.5m³ of concrete. Which unit best represents this measurement?

Volume

Area

Length

Weight

Q13 A rectangular room measures 5m by 4m. What is the floor area?

A 9m² B 18m² C 20m² D 25m²

A plumber spaces pipe clips every 250mm along a 1 metre pipe. How many clips are needed?

Q14 A piece of timber measures 750mm. How many centimetres is this?

7.5cm

75cm

750cm

0.75cm

Ans.

The Quickest, Neatest, Simplest and Lowest Cost installation solution for pressure relief termination.

n No fabrication – particularly useful at higher levels

n Tried, tested and approved by British Gas

n NHBC approved

The Quickest,Neatest, Simplest and Lowest Cost installationsolutionfor pressurerelieftermination

n Manufactured to EN1254 – complies with all current legislations

● Nofabrication–particularlyusefulathigherlevels

● TriedandtestedbyBritishGas ● NHBCapproved

● ManufacturedtoEN1254–complieswithall currentlegislations

n Available from leading plumbing and heating merchants

Availablefromleadingplumbingandheatingmerchants

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

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Can you spot the 10 differences between these two images from this year’s HIP Learner of the Year competition?

STARTING OUT STRONG

Whether you’re about to start your first plumbing job, still looking for an apprenticeship, or returning to college in the autumn – this guide is here to help you get work-ready and confident for life on site.

THESE ARE THE KEY QUALITIES THAT MAKE A STRONG IMPRESSION ON EMPLOYERS:

■ A Willing Attitude – Enthusiasm and a genuine interest in plumbing go a long way.

■ Reliability – Turn up consistently, be punctual (aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early), and show you can be counted on.

■ Respect & Communication – Be polite, friendly, ask questions, and listen well. It shows maturity and professionalism.

■ Effort on Your Course – Employers often ask colleges for references. Your attendance, focus, and attitude matter.

■ Presentation – Make sure you look tidy, wear the correct PPE, and bring any kit or tools you’ve been asked to.

■ Openness to Learning – You’re not expected to know everything – but being open, alert, and ready to learn makes a big impression.

WHAT PUTS EMPLOYERS OFF?

■ Poor punctuality, messy CVs, overconfidence, or a ‘know-it-all’ vibe can be dealbreakers.

Once you do get on site – whether it’s a work placement or your first proper job – those early impressions matter.

“YOU

TOP MISTAKES TO AVOID:

■ Turning up late or cutting it fine

■ Standing around waiting instead of asking what’s next

■ Acting like you already know everything

■ Ignoring health and safety guidance

■ Being glued to your phone

Small habits make a big difference to how you’re seen.

ONLY GET ONE CHANCE TO MAKE A FIRST IMPRESSION – MAKE IT COUNT”

CORGI IS A NAME THAT IS TRUSTED BY GENERATIONS. FAMOUS FOR HIGH STANDARDS OF RELIABILITY, EXPERTISE AND QUALITY, CORGI IS TRUSTED NATIONWIDE TO BRING WARMTH, COMFORT AND SECURITY TO PEOPLE’S HOMES.

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MAKING PROGRESS

Landing an apprenticeship is just the beginning. If you want to keep moving forward, earn trust, and develop into a great plumber, every day on site is an investment in your future.

THESE TIPS WILL HELP YOU BUILD MOMENTUM:

■ Be Curious – Don’t just do what you’re told. Ask why something is done that way.

■ Watch Closely – If you’re not hands-on, observe carefully. Noticing how things are done helps you learn fast.

■ Keep a Log – Use a notebook or notes app to track what you’ve done and learned. Handy when it’s time to update your CV or portfolio.

■ Ask for Feedback – Don’t be afraid to ask how you’re doing or what to improve. It shows maturity and a desire to grow.

■ Set Small Goals – Whether it’s learning a new skill or handling a task solo, progress happens one step at a time.

“THE WAY YOU DO THE SMALL JOBS TELLS US HOW YOU’LL HANDLE THE BIG ONES”
“STAY CURIOUS, OBSERVE, LEARN, AND GROW ONE SMALL STEP AT A TIME”

Treat every task seriously, no matter how minor. That’s how you build a reputation people rely on. TOP TIP

ETIQUETTE & SELF-CARE

Knowing how to carry yourself on site – and look after yourself – can make the whole experience smoother and more enjoyable.

HERE’S HOW TO GET ALONG WITH YOUR TEAM, STAY SAFE, AND TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR PROGRESS:

■ Mobile Use – Keep your phone on silent and out of sight unless needed for work.

■ Stay Busy – If you finish a task, ask what else you can do.

■ Respect the Chain of Command –Know who’s supervising you and follow their lead.

■ Own Your Mistakes – Everyone slips up. Owning it shows maturity and professionalism.

■ Support Each Other – Every tradesperson started as a learner. Don’t try to outdo others or put anyone down – it drains team morale. A good crew lifts each other up.

■ Stay Hydrated & Fuelled – Bring a bottle of water and a packed lunch. Physical work needs energy.

■ Ask for Help – Struggling with something? Let your tutor or manager know sooner rather than later.

■ Take Pride – Every skill you learn builds your future career. Turn up with purpose.

“A TIDY WORKER WITH A GOOD ATTITUDE WILL ALWAYS GO FURTHER”
“EVERY SKILL YOU LEARN BUILDS YOUR FUTURE CAREER. TURN UP WITH PURPOSE”

YOUR RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES

Whether you’re an apprentice or new starter, it’s important to know your rights – and what’s expected of you in return.

This

page lays out the basics so you feel confident and supported.

YOUR RIGHTS AS AN APPRENTICE:

■ A Written Agreement – You should receive a contract or written terms of your employment or training.

■ National Minimum Wage – You must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage. The rate depends on your age and stage of your apprenticeship.

■ Paid Holidays – At least 20 days plus bank holidays.

■ A Safe Working Environment – You must be given proper PPE and training.

■ Support & Mentorship – You should have someone to go to if you’re unsure or struggling.

DID YOU KNOW?

As an apprentice, you have similar rights to an employee – including pay, holidays, rest breaks, and a safe working environment, while you build your skills.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:

■ Show Up Prepared – On time, dressed appropriately, ready to learn.

■ Be Respectful – Of your colleagues, tutor/ supervisor, and the workspace.

■ Stick With It – Even when it’s hard, showing resilience and reliability makes you stand out.

“YOU’RE NOT EXPECTED TO KNOW EVERYTHING – JUST SHOW THAT YOU WANT TO LEARN”

JUST STOP ANY LEAK WITH PLUMBER'S MATE!

Plumbing perfection… and then there’s this lot. From baffling bodge jobs to “that’ll do” disasters, here’s our regular gallery of work that might raise a few eyebrows.

THE BASIN FITS PERFECTLY SELF-MADE TRAP

PTFE IN ALL IT'S GLORY ROOM WITH A VIEW

EPIC FAIL

TOILET DISCHARGE MAZE

WHEN YOU SEE IT...

SPREAD THE WORD...

GET YOUR MATES IN OTHER TRADES INVOLVED!

We don’t just do plumbing! We run hands-on, skills-based competitions across multiple trades - giving learners the chance to show what they’re made of! ASK YOUR LECTURER FOR MORE DETAILS OR SCAN THE QR CODE:

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HIP Magazine Summer 2026 issue by The SNG Group - Issuu