Plumbing Level 1
Start Date: 1st September 2027
- Length 1 Year
- Study Full Time
- Location West Lancashire College
More about the course
Our Plumbing Level 1 course is the perfect starting point for anyone interested in building a career in the plumbing industry. Designed for beginners, the course will introduce you to the fundamental skills, techniques and knowledge required to work within the trade.
You'll gain hands-on experience in a practical workshop environment while developing an understanding of key plumbing principles, tools and industry practices. The qualification will help you build confidence, develop essential employability skills and prepare you for progression onto our Plumbing Level 2 course, apprenticeship of further training within the construction sector.
Entry requirements
- 4 GCSEs at Grade 2-9, including English and/or Maths
What will I achieve?
If you successful complete this course, you will receive a Level 1 in Plumbing
What will I learn?
- Structure of the construction industry
- Fundamental safe working practices
- Environmental and sustainability measures in domestic dwellings
- Site preparation for working in the construction industry
- Above ground drainage
- Copper pipework
- Plastic pressure pipework
- Installation, repair and maintenance of plumbing systems
- Plumbing science
What experience will I have?
- Specialist training from industry experts and suppliers including Sentinel Products, Mira Showers, Myson, Salamander Pumps, McAlpine and Wavin
- Trips and visits to the PHEX Manchester and Go Karting
- Specialist equipment including hydraulic steel benders, gas torchers, hand banding/copper bending machines, simulated rooms for practical works
- Skills competitions including World Skills UK and NCG Skills competitions
- Progression to Apprenticeships
How am I assessed?
- Online core unit examination
- Award body phase test
- Portfolio of knowledge
- Online examination
Where can I progress?
Upon successful completion of the course, students may wish to progress onto our Plumbing Level 2 course.
Course costs
If you are 16-18 years old, you do not have to pay course tuition fees*.
If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact our Student Services team who can offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.
*This is subject to attendance.
Contact our team
Meet our Plumbing students and tutors
Lee Moorhouse
Head of Curriculum for Advanced Construction and EngineeringWith 34 years of experience in the construction industry and 12 years as a Carpentry and Joinery Lecturer, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to my role. I am passionate about supporting learners and helping them develop the skills, confidence, and understanding needed to succeed in their chosen careers. I look forward to continuing to grow and support the department, contributing to its ongoing success while helping to deliver NCG's vision and strategic goals towards 2030. Sharing my industry experience and supporting students to achieve their full potential are among the most rewarding aspects of my role.
Michael Cassidy
Plumbing LecturerI went straight into Plumbing as an apprentice with Wigan Council after leaving school, before leaving several years later to play professional rugby for Wigan Warriors. I started teaching after retiring from rugby in 2008 because I enjoy working with young adults and valued the teaching I received while training as a plumber. My main aim has always been to give students the best possible chance of completing their course while also passing on my hands-on experience from working in the industry.
Aston
Plumbing Alumni StudentI chose this course because I knew it would support me in expanding my skills and help prepare me for a future career in the industry. I have really enjoyed learning a range of new practical skills that I can apply in the workplace and build on throughout my career. The course has helped me develop my confidence, knowledge, and experience, and I have now progressed into a career in Plumbing.
Benji
Plumbing Alumni StudentI chose this course because I knew it would allow me to progress into a strong career within the industry. I have really enjoyed learning new skills throughout the course and developing my practical knowledge and confidence. The experience I have gained has prepared me well for the next stage of my career, and I am now progressing into a Plumbing Apprenticeship.
What can I do with a qualification in Construction?
Careers for this subject will be updated soon.
Construction at West Lancashire College
News
Upcoming events
November Open Event
West Lancashire College
Thursday 19th November 2026
4:30pm - 7:00pm
February Open Event
West Lancashire College
Monday 1st February 2027
4:30pm - 7:00pm
April Open Event
West Lancashire College
Thursday 29th April 2027
4:30pm - 7:00pm
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