Skip to the main content
Go to the search page

Key details

Course area
Construction
Student types
16 - 18 coursesCourses for 19+ students
Course type
Full-time Further Education course
Course level
Level 2
Start date
Tuesday 1st September 2026
Location
Basford 664 Nuthall Road, Nottingham, NG8 6AQ
Course code
Parent course code:C000162 Child course code: Q000979
Apply now

Course introduction

This course is perfect if you have a genuine interest in learning about the technology and practices involved in plumbing and are looking to pursue a career as a plumber or in a related trade.

You’ll learn the practical as well as theoretical aspects of plumbing, covering areas such as:

  • Health and safety
  • Electrics
  • Domestic hot water and heating systems
  • Cold water systems
  • Sanitation systems
  • Central heating
  • Drainage systems

You’ll learn about how plumbing sits alongside the various other trades that make up the construction sector.

You can expect specialist plumbing workshop spaces, access to mainstream systems like piping and heating/ hot water systems, and learning how to install various household appliances like radiators, sinks, taps and sanitary systems. You’ll learn all this from expert tutors who’ve spent plenty of time in industry as professional plumbers.

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 the Programme of Study (PoS) at Nottingham College offers you the chance to acquire both work-specific knowledge and essential skills. If you haven't yet achieved a grade 4 in English and maths, this programme ensures you will study these subjects, enhancing your progression not only within the college but also in future employment. Additionally, the PoS includes a 30-hour work placement related to your course, providing valuable hands-on experience.

The programme incorporates enrichment activities aimed at developing vital industry skills such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to follow instructions. These experiences will enhance your CV, making you more attractive to potential employers. You will also participate in personal development sessions covering current and relevant topics like PREVENT, British Values, and keeping safe amongst others. Your personal development tutor will offer one-on-one support for your wellbeing and development, while a personal tutor will set academic targets to ensure you stay on track to achieve your goals.

Social action projects are another integral part of the PoS, allowing you to support local communities and charities. These projects will help you develop "future ready" skills, including professional behaviour and attitude, problem-solving and commitment, communication and collaboration, self-confidence, individuality and respect, and digital literacy. These competencies are crucial for becoming work-ready.

Your timetable will also include independent study periods, where you will engage in activities such as research, revision, improving digital skills, and working on assignments.

Given the practical nature of the course, consistent attendance is crucial to your success and reaching your full academic potential. We expect full attendance in all classes to maximize your learning and development.

By committing to the Programme of Study at Nottingham College, you are setting yourself up for success both academically and professionally.

A student and lecturer working on a tap.

You will be encouraged to participate in a 30-hour work placement while you are studying.

Read more

Course information

1 year

City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing Studies

You will need a full Level 1 Plumbing qualification, English and Maths at grade 4 and the successful completion of a progression assessment.

Assessment is continuous throughout the course.

Choose to follow with an apprenticeship in plumbing or full-time permanent employment.

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.

Meet Joe & learn how his experience in construction at Basford is building his skills
Basford campus tour with student rep Makai
Meet Jess and learn why she is studying a joinery course at our Basford campus

Careers related to this course

Plumbers and Heating and Ventilating Installers and Repairers

Potential Earnings

£49,814.81

Average Earnings

£34,835.00

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Pathways

Transportation Maintenance

People in these occupations maintain and service transport vehicles and specialised vehicle systems.

Engineering

People in these occupations use scientific principles to solve practical problems across a variety of engineering disciplines: civil, chemical, mechanical, etc.

Building and Construction

People in these occupations manage building projects, inspect structures, and carry out various construction trades: masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, etc.

Skills

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Mathematics

Using mathematics to solve problems.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Learning Strategies

Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
View more about this career

Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.

Bricklaying (Entry Level Certificate) - Full-time

Bricklaying (Level 1 City & Guilds Diploma) - Full-time

Bricklaying (Level 2 City & Guilds Diploma) - Full-time