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Plumbing (Level 1 City & Guilds Diploma) — Full-time

Course outline

This course is perfect if you would like to develop the skills you’ll need for a career as a plumber or perhaps related field such as gas or heating engineer.

You’ll learn about a range of plumbing practices and techniques such as:

  • Pipe bending and types of jointing
  • Basic maintenance on taps and valves
  • Rainwater systems and maintenance
  • Basin and WC installation
  • Maintenance
  • Health and safety at work

You can expect to work with tutors with extensive experience in the plumbing industry and within a specialist plumbing workshop space. You’ll complete lots of practical tasks to test your skills and theoretical knowledge.

Programme of Study

When you enrol on your chosen course you will be automatically enrolled onto a Programme of Study (PoS), which will include:

  • A vocational qualification
  • English and maths
  • Personal and social development
  • Independent study
  • Work experience

Enrolling in a Programme of Study at Nottingham College offers you the opportunity to acquire not only industry-specific knowledge and skills but also to enhance your proficiency in English and maths if you have not yet achieved a grade 4 in these subjects. Achievement of these fundamental skills will benefit your progression both at college and in your future employment.

The Programme of Study includes practical work experience through social action projects and community engagement, helping you develop essential "future ready" skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, self-confidence, openness to learning, a sense of belonging, and digital literacy. Skills which are crucial for becoming work-ready.

You will also participate in enrichment activities designed to develop broader skills vital for success in any industry. These activities focus on problem-solving, communication, teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to follow instructions, all of which will enhance your CV. Additionally, personal development sessions will cover current and relevant topics such as PREVENT, British Values, and keeping safe, amongst others. You will receive support from a personal development tutor through one-on-one sessions focused on your wellbeing and growth. Furthermore, you will be assigned a personal tutor who will set academic targets to keep you on track towards achieving your goals.

Independent study is a key component of your timetable, providing you with designated time to work outside the classroom on tasks such as research activities, revision, improving digital skills, and completing assignments.

Given the practical nature of the course, consistent attendance is essential for your success and to reach your full academic potential. We expect you to attend every class and engage fully in all aspects of the Programme of Study.

By committing to this comprehensive and supportive educational experience at Nottingham College, you will be well-prepared for both academic and professional success.

How to apply for this course

Apply online to start in 2025/26.

Want to find out more first?

Get in touch by hitting the button below and filling out our enquiry form.

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Location Date
664 Nuthall Road
Basford
Nottingham
NG8 6AQ

Start: Monday 1st September 2025

Course code: C000160 / Q000959

Qualification

City & Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Plumbing

Duration

1 year

Level Level 1
Entry requirements

You’ll need 4 GCSEs at grades 1-3, including GCSE English and Maths at grade 3.

Teaching & assessment

You will complete 10 assessments throughout your course in practical and theory.

Progression

You could progress to further study at Nottingham College onto a Plumbing Level 2 programme as long as you successfully complete the Level 1 course, achieve English Language and Maths at grade 4 and pass a skills test.

Alternatively you could progress to an Apprenticeship as a plumber so you can further develop your knowledge and skills within a real industry setting.

Additional information

Students aged 16-18 don't have to pay tuition fees.

If you are aged 19 or over you may still be eligible for funding. Check out our Financial Help pages to find out more!

If you are an EU/EEA or Swiss National, please visit our EU Settled Status scheme page for more information.

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