
Plumbing Level 1
Start Date: 1st September 2025

- Length 1 Year
- Study Full Time
- Location West Lancashire College
More about the course
This qualification is for those wanting to enter the Plumbing industry as it provides you with the opportunity to pick up some core skills and knowledge and gives you the opportunity to progress onto Plumbing Level 2. These qualifications are aimed at learners who want to learn the basic skills and knowledge of Plumbing.
Entry requirements
- 4 GCSEs at Grade 2-9, including English and/or Maths
For all students who have achieved Maths and English at GCSE Grade 4 or above, you will be able to gain additional qualifications in Sustainability, Employability and Mental Health. This will offer essential skills and support your progression into the industry.
What will I achieve?
If you successful complete this course, you will receive a Level 1 Certificate in Plumbing, as well as a Level 1 or 2 in Functional Skills, or a GCSE in Maths and English
What will I learn?
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Structure of the construction industry
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Fundamental safe working practices
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Environmental and sustainability measures in domestic dwellings
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Site preparation for working in the construction industry
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Above ground drainage
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Copper pipework
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Plastic pressure pipework
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Low carbon steel pipework
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Installation, repair and maintenance of plumbing systems
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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
- Progression to Apprenticeships
How am I assessed?
- Online core unit examination
- Award body phase test
- Portfolio of knowledge
- Online examination
Where can I progress?
-
Level 2 Plumbing
Our students have gone into employment with:
- Huyton Plumbing and Heating Ltd
- Liquid and Gas
- Lathom Heating and Plumbing
- Karl Roberts Domestic Installations
- CLC Group
Course costs
If you are 16-18 years old, you do not have to pay course tuition fees.
If you require information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact Student Services who will be able to offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.
Contact our team
Meet our Plumbing students and tutors

Amanda Maddocks
Head of Curriculum for ConstructionAs Head of Curriculum for Construction, I have high expectations for both student and staff. I am passionate about ensuring the learning experience in Construction is the very best it can be, always looking for additional opportunities that students wouldn’t get anywhere else. We create a safe and supportive environment to ensure all learners reach their full potential and progress into the Construction Industry, with support from our network of employer links.

Mollie
Plumbing Level 2 StudentI am currently studying the Level 2 Plumbing course at West Lancashire College and I chose this as I wanted to be different, to take my career in a direction that nobody else would choose for me. I have applied to be an Apprentice with the college in the near future, which I am really looking forward to. Amanda Maddocks has been fantastic with helping me to apply and has offered a lot of advice for the future.
What can I do with a qualification in Construction?
Careers for this subject will be updated soon.
Construction at West Lancashire College

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Upcoming events

Open Event
West Lancashire College
Thursday 1st May 2025
4:30pm - 7:00pm

Parent/Carer Information Evening
West Lancashire College
Tuesday 24th June 2025
4:30pm - 7:00pm
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