Academy Introduction to Plumbing, Gasfitting, & Drainlaying

Program Overview

This 32-week program provides foundational skills in plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying. It equips students with practical experience and knowledge through hands-on workshops, industry visits, and work placements. Graduates are prepared for further studies or employment in the construction industry, with potential career paths including plumber, gasfitter, and drainlayer. The program is offered at UCOL Manawatū and UCOL Wairarapa, and is free for domestic students who meet the criteria.

Program Outline

Academy Introduction to Plumbing, Gasfitting, & Drainlaying

Degree Overview:

This program provides foundational skills for a career in the plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying industry. It aims to equip students with the knowledge and practical experience needed to pursue further studies or employment in this field.

Outline:

• Duration: 32 weeks (starting in February and ending in September)
• Locations: UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North and UCOL Wairarapa in Masterton
• Delivery: Thursdays in both locations
• Content:
• Unit Standard 25068 (Level 2):
Perform basic residential plumbing maintenance under supervision.
• Unit Standard 24354 (Level 2): Demonstrate knowledge of health and safety legislation and apply safe working practices in a BCATS environment.
• Unit Standard 21883 (Level 2): Demonstrate knowledge of working in gas contaminated environments in plumbing, gasfitting, or drainlaying.
• Unit Standard 30557 (Level 2): Select, describe, use, and maintain tools for plumbing and drainlaying projects.
• Unit Standard 22139 (Level 2): Soft solder metal joints.
• Unit Standard 25413 (Level 2): Draw and form simple patterns for plumbing and gas fitting sheet metal components.

Assessment:

• Assessment methods:
• Practical assessments
• Written assignments
• Tests
• Assessment criteria:
• Demonstrating knowledge and understanding of plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying principles
• Applying theoretical knowledge to practical situations
• Working safely and efficiently
• Completing tasks to a high standard

Teaching:

• Teaching methods:
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Practical workshops
• Industry visits
• Faculty:
• Experienced and qualified plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying professionals
• Unique approaches:
• Hands-on learning environment
• Opportunity to gain practical experience through work placements
• Strong industry connections

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Plumber
• Gasfitter
• Drainlayer
• Refrigeration Technician
• Opportunities:
• Employment in the construction industry
• Self-employment
• Further studies in plumbing, gasfitting, and drainlaying
• Salaries:
• Starting salaries for plumbers, gasfitters, and drainlayers range from $45,000 to $60,000 per year.
• Experienced professionals can earn up to $100,000 per year.

Other:

• Fees:
• Domestic students: Fees-free if criteria are met
• Entry requirements:
• Domestic students: Year 11-13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents, or learners with an applicable visa)
• Application process:
• Application arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school
• Use the Academy Application Form
• Transport:
• Transport assistance is available if you meet the criteria
• Attendance:
• Learners must maintain appropriate attendance at both secondary school and Academy to remain enrolled in the Academy Programme
• Additional costs:
• No additional costs
• What to bring:
• Pen, paper, and lunch