Quick facts
| Qualification type | City & Guilds Level 2 Technical Certificate in Plumbing |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:00 to 4:15. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements | Four GCSEs Grade 4 or above, including maths and English. It is expected that you will have a genuine interest in the industry. You will also be required to successfully complete an interview and an aptitude test. |
| Campus | West Suffolk College Built Environment Campus, The Milburn Centre, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
This full-time vocational qualification is aimed at those wanting to enter the Plumbing industry. It has been designed to deliver a high level of occupational skills and to provide a platform to progress to further learning through an Apprenticeship, or into employment.
The qualification is a vital step towards becoming a competent plumber and will help you gain an understanding of the skills required within the plumbing sector.
You will cover the fundamental aspects of plumbing such as hot water, cold water, sanitation and central heating, alongside more in-depth and specialist modules, all of which will prepare you fully for the world of work.
You will work closely with local employers who will deliver your training and will contribute to the knowledge and skills you gain. These employers will also give you demonstrations and talks on the industry and where possible, relevant work placements.
What you'll learn
- Health and Safety
- Electrical Principles
- Scientific Principles for Plumbing
- Common Plumbing Processes
- Cold Water Systems
- Domestic Hot Water Systems
- Sanitation
- Central Heating Systems
- Drainage Systems
- Communication within the Building Services Industry
Any student who does not hold a GCSE grade 9 to 4 or equivalent qualifications in maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Equipment required for the course
You'll need to purchase the following items in advance of starting your course:
- Steel toe-capped boots
- The Built Environment campus branded clothing
- Lever arch file and paper
- Pens and coloured pencils
- Scientific calculator
- Drawing instruments; ruler, protractor etc.
- The City & Guilds textbook; Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating
Assessment
This course is assessed by multiple choice exams, written assignments and practical assessments.
Example careers
- Plumber
Days & times
Starting September 2025