| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Plumbing Level 3
Overview
Plumbing and heating systems are essential parts of any construction project, and skilled plumbers are always in demand, particularly with major building and regeneration schemes happening across the UK today. If you want to become a plumber or heating engineer, our Plumbing Level 3 course provides the perfect continuation of your studies from Level 2 to further develop skills and knowledge that will enable you to turn this trade into a lifelong career.
By training to be a plumber, you could work on everything from carrying out plumbing repairs or fitting bathrooms and domestic appliances to installing and maintaining heating systems. This Level 3 plumbing course will teach you how to work with plumbing systems and pipework, as well as covering elements of the wider construction industry including health and safety, modern sustainable construction methods and green technology. You will also develop your maths and English skills alongside your trade skills to prepare you for the world of work.
Our plumbing course gives you practical, hands-on training, supported by state-of-the-art facilities at our Sustainable Construction Skills Centre on campus. After you finish your studies, the doors will be open for you to progress onto further study, apprenticeships or careers within the industry.
Why choose this college course?
- BOOST YOUR SKILLS – Build core skills and knowledge in carpentry and joinery, as well as other key skills including maths and English to get you work-ready
- PRACTICAL APPLICATION – Get hands-on training using innovative facilities in our state-of-the-art Sustainable Construction Skills Centre
- RECOGNISED QUALIFICATION – Gain a recognised Level 3 qualification to enable your progression onto further courses, apprenticeships or into industry
Our facilities
Students on our construction and engineering courses will learn in brand new real-world training environments at University College Birmingham. Our brand new Sustainable Construction Skills Centre at the iconic James Cond Building offers state-of-the-art facilities specifically designed to develop skills that support employers and their supply chains, along with further facilities at Camden House. These include:
- Training rigs
- Glulam workshops
- Modular building workshop
- Bench joinery workshops
- Bricklaying workshops
- Electrical workshops
- Plumbing workshops
- BIM labs
- CAD studios
- Enhanced IT facilities
Sustainable Construction Skills Centre
Our new Sustainable Construction Skills Centre holds workshops for our construction, plumbing, carpentry, bricklaying and electrical installation students.
Camden House
Camden House is our bespoke STEM education and training facility, where construction students learn CAD software, mechanics and fluids.
Course breakdown
Topics you will study:
- Health, safety and welfare construction
- Electrical principles and processes for building services engineering
- Common plumbing processes
- Cold water systems
- Domestic hot water systems
- Sanitation
- Central heating systems
- Drainage systems
- Understanding how to communicate with others within building services engineering
Please note: Units/topics of study are subject to change
You will also have an individual study programme to help you build the skills and experience you need to progress onto higher education or gain employment.
Entry requirements
Our lecturers are looking for students who are enthusiastic and passionate about construction, together with a keen determination to succeed in the plumbing sector, so please contact Admissions if you do not have the specific requirements outlined below.
If you are unsure if your qualification is equivalent or if you wish to check if you meet the entry requirements for this course, please call , email or use our live chat.
Academic requirements
- 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (grade C) or above including English (Language or Literature) and maths, or equivalent and a successful completion of Level 2 Plumbing.
Supporting documents required
- School applicants will be required to provide a good school report, which must include attendance. This will be assessed in conjunction with your qualifications and application during the confirmation of your place at University College Birmingham.
- If you are a school leaver (over 19), you will be required to provide a reference from a previous education provider or employer in support of your application.
Key information
Teaching and assessment
You will be assessed through a combination of externally-assessed exams, projects and practical assessments.
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our **Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy **.
Uniform and kit costs
This course requires a uniform and kit costing approximately £50, depending on the items you purchase. (Prices are subject to change each year – exact costs and information on how to order required items will be provided to you prior to enrolment.) This will include steel toe cap boots and old clothes suitable for site construction work.
You may be eligible for the Learner Support Fund, which assists college students with course-related costs such as essential uniform, equipment and travel. For more information, please visit our Financial Support for College Students page.
Career opportunities
- Plumbing and heating engineer: Average Salary: £50,000
- Gas engineer: Average Salary: £60,000
- Green technologies installer: Average Salary: £50,000
- Industrial mechanical heating engineer: Average Salary: £60,000
- MEP designer: Average Salary: £50,000
Program Outline
Plumbing Level 3
Degree Overview
Overview:
This one-year full-time Plumbing Level 3 course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to become a plumber or heating engineer. By the end of the program, you will have gained proficiency in plumbing systems and pipework, as well as broader knowledge of the construction industry, including health and safety, sustainable construction methods, and green technology. Additionally, you will develop your math and English skills to prepare you for the world of work.
Objectives:
- Develop practical skills in plumbing systems and pipework.
- Gain knowledge of the wider construction industry, including health and safety, sustainable construction methods, and green technology.
- Enhance your math and English skills for workplace readiness.
- Prepare for further study, apprenticeships, or careers in the plumbing and heating industry.
Outline
Program Content:
- Health, safety, and welfare construction
- Common plumbing processes
- Cold water systems
- Domestic hot water systems
- Sanitation
- Central heating systems
- Drainage systems
Course Schedule:
The course is delivered full-time over one year. The specific schedule will be provided upon enrollment.
Individual Modules:
Each module will focus on a specific aspect of plumbing and heating systems. The modules may include:
- Water Supply Systems: This module will cover the design and installation of cold and hot water systems in domestic and commercial buildings.
- Central Heating Systems: This module will cover the principles and operation of various central heating systems, including boilers, radiators, and underfloor heating.
- Gas Safety: This module will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to work safely with gas appliances.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
You will be assessed through a combination of:
- Externally-assessed exams: These exams will test your knowledge and understanding of the theoretical aspects of the program.
- Projects: You will complete projects that demonstrate your practical skills and ability to apply your knowledge to real-world situations.
- Practical assessments: These assessments will evaluate your ability to perform specific plumbing tasks safely and competently.
Assessment Criteria:
The assessment criteria will be based on the learning outcomes of each module and will be provided in the course handbook.
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
The program is delivered through a blend of lectures, workshops, and practical sessions. The lectures will provide you with the theoretical knowledge, while the workshops and practical sessions will allow you to apply your learning to real-world scenarios.
Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced and qualified plumbing professionals who are passionate about their field.
Unique Approaches:
The program utilizes a state-of-the-art Sustainable Construction Skills Centre, which provides students with access to the latest technologies and equipment used in the plumbing industry.
Careers
Potential Career Paths:
- Plumber
- Heating engineer
- Gas engineer
- Green technologies installer
- Industrial mechanical heating engineer
- MEP designer
Career Opportunities:
Upon successful completion of the program, you will be qualified to work as a plumber or heating engineer. You can also pursue further study or training to specialize in a particular area of the industry.
Average Salaries:
- Plumber: £50,000
- Heating engineer: £60,000
- Green technologies installer: £50,000
- Industrial mechanical heating engineer: £60,000
Other
Facilities:
Students on the program have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the Sustainable Construction Skills Centre and Camden House.
Entry Requirements:
- 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (grade C) or above including English (Language or Literature) and maths, or equivalent and a successful completion of Level 2 Plumbing.
Uniform and Kit Costs:
The course requires a uniform and kit costing approximately £50.
Financial Support:
Students may be eligible for the Learner Support Fund, which assists with course-related costs.
University College Birmingham
Overview:
University College Birmingham (UCB) is a vibrant and welcoming institution located in the heart of Birmingham, England. It offers a diverse range of academic programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeship, and college courses. UCB is known for its world-class facilities, which have been significantly enhanced through a £200 million investment.
Services Offered:
The context does not provide specific details about the services offered to students.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
UCB boasts a supportive and friendly student community, where students can forge lifelong friendships and find a sense of belonging. The institution offers campus tours led by student ambassadors, who provide insights into student life and facilities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
World-class facilities:
UCB has invested heavily in its campuses, equipment, and resources, providing students with a high-quality learning environment.University of Warwick accreditation:
Many of UCB's programs are accredited and awarded by the University of Warwick, a prestigious Russell Group university, ensuring high academic standards.Location:
Situated in the heart of Birmingham, UCB offers students access to a thriving business environment, beautiful green spaces, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse cultural scene.Student choice:
UCB is the highest-ranking university in the region according to student choice, as recognized by the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024.Academic Programs:
UCB offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
A variety of undergraduate degree courses.Postgraduate:
A selection of postgraduate degree courses.Apprenticeships:
Higher level apprenticeships.College:
College courses.Other:
Entry Requirements:
- 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (grade C) or above, including English (Language or Literature) and maths, or equivalent.
- Successful completion of Level 2 Plumbing.
Supporting Documents Required:
- School applicants must provide a good school report, including attendance.
- Students are required to wear steel toe cap boots and old clothes suitable for site construction work.
- Students may be eligible for the Learner Support Fund, which assists with course-related costs.
