If you want to become a plumber, there are several different pathways that can get you there. Options include:
- Completing a college course or apprenticeship
- Training 'on the job' while working as a plumber's mate
- Learning your new trade at a training centre
The best option for you will depend on your personal circumstances and your career aspirations.
How to become a plumber in the UK
There is no specific qualification required to become a plumber in the UK. The most important thing is to have the right skills.
That said, you will need to obtain an industry-recognised plumbing qualification to prove that you possess those skills. For example, earning your Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing demonstrates that you are a competent, capable plumber with a good working knowledge of:
- Hot and cold water systems
- Water cylinders and tanks
- Central heating
- Sanitation
- Drainage
- Bathroom installation
- Plumbing safety regulations
Additional qualifications may be required depending on the type of work you wish to do once you become a plumber.
For instance, if you plan to work with gas appliances, you will need to complete a gas training course, pass your initial ACS assessment and join the Gas Safe Register.
And the NVQ Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating is required if you want to do plumbing work on construction sites.
How long does it take to become a plumber?
It can take anywhere from a few months to a few years to become a plumber.
As mentioned above, there are several different pathways available to would-be plumbers. An apprenticeship is the 'traditional' route, and this is still a popular choice (especially among young people who have only just left school).
However, a plumbing apprenticeship typically takes four years to complete - that's quite a long time to stay on the National Minimum Wage.
No wonder some people choose to start working right away, securing a role as a plumber's mate and learning on the job. But again, this is slow going - it takes a long time for a plumber's mate to become a plumber in their own right, which means it will be a while before you're earning a decent salary.
If you want to become a qualified, full-time plumber as soon as possible, a fast-track plumbing course may be your best bet - especially if you want to transition to a new career without suffering a gap in your earnings. Learning the trade at a dedicated training centre is a good way to build your skillset quickly, plus you'll have the support of specialist tutors with years of industry experience.
Is plumbing a good career?
It certainly is! According to CV-Library, when you become a plumber, you can earn roughly £25K. Highly experienced plumbers can earn upwards of £40K per year.
Naturally, how much you earn as a plumber will depend on a number of variables - where in the UK you're based, how many hours you put in, whether you're self-employed or working for a company, etc. But plumbers are always in demand, so no matter what, you should have no problem finding lucrative work once you're qualified.
Why become a plumber?
- Rewarding, hands-on work
- Your skills will always be in demand
- Option to start a business and be your own boss
- Plenty of opportunities to build your skillset
Become a plumber with Access Training Academies
Access Training is one of the UK's top training providers. We have helped thousands of people - of all ages and from all kinds of different backgrounds - to embark on successful careers in the plumbing trade.
If you'd like to hear from some of the plumbers we've trained, watch the video below.
Our plumbing courses blend classroom learning with hands-on training sessions, giving you a sturdy foundation on which to build your new life. The theory portion of your plumbing course can be delivered online, allowing you to develop your knowledge at home while still interacting with our experienced plumbing tutors and your fellow learners in real time.
Access Training's plumbing courses are extremely flexible - you can design your own path through the training programme. Whether you want to fast-track the entire process or spread your course over a longer period, we'll be more than happy to accommodate you whilst you learn to become a plumber.
The support we provide begins the moment you sign up, and it continues even when you're fully qualified and looking for work. Our dedicated Career Support Team will have your back every step of the way!
If you'd like to become a plumber, please contact Access Training now to discuss your options with one of our friendly course advisors.
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Learn your trade. Get qualified. Make it happen.