Plumbing
| Study Level | Level 2 |
| Duration | 1 Academic Year |
| Study Mode | Full-time |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
Level 3 Plumbing
Qualification Gained: City and Guilds of London Institute Advanced Technical Diploma in Plumbing (450)
Study LevelLevel 3 Course TypeSchool Leavers Duration1 Academic Year Start DateSeptember 2026 Study ModeFull-time LocationTrinity GreenOverview
Our Level 3 Plumbing course provides you with a comprehensive and industry‑focused pathway into the plumbing and heating sector, building on your existing skills and preparing you for advanced technical work. This programme is designed for learners ready to progress beyond the fundamentals and develop the deeper knowledge, practical ability and professional understanding required to work confidently across a wide range of plumbing and heating environments.
Throughout the course, you’ll explore the scientific and technical principles that underpin modern plumbing systems, while gaining hands‑on experience with the tools, materials and installation methods used across the industry. You’ll develop the ability to interpret technical information, follow industry standards, and apply safe working practices in real‑world scenarios.
Key Info
You’ll deepen your technical expertise and build the advanced skills needed to work confidently and safely in the plumbing and heating industry. The course takes you beyond the basics and into the real‑world principles that underpin modern plumbing systems.
You’ll explore how plumbing science influences the performance of hot water, cold water, heating and sanitation systems, and get to grips with the operating principles of key components, appliances and system layouts. You’ll learn how plumbing and heating systems are designed, installed and maintained, and develop a strong understanding of system characteristics, materials, and customer requirements.
You’ll also build the knowledge needed to design plumbing installations, carry out safe testing and commissioning, and complete all required certification and documentation. This includes testing systems before they are put into service, commissioning appliances and equipment, and ensuring installations meet current industry standards.
Cold Water System Planning and Design
Hot Water System Planning and Design
Central Heating System Planning and Design
Sanitation System Planning and Design
Environmental Technology Systems
Site Procedures and Planning
Applicants and progressing learners must have GCSE Maths and GCSE English at a grade 4 as a minimum and successfully completed a Level 2 Plumbing qualification.
You will complete formal written theory assessments designed to assess the depth and breadth of your understanding of plumbing science, plumbing system design, and the requirements for hot water, cold water, heating, and sanitation installations. You will also undertake a synoptic assessment (scenario‑based) where you will need to identify and use effectively, in an integrated way, an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories, and knowledge from across the whole subject area. This will involve plumbing system design, the requirements for plumbing and heating installations, inspection and testing procedures, commissioning activities, and the diagnosis and rectification of faults within plumbing and heating systems.
You will undertake a minimum of 10 hours of work‑preparation activities and 30 hours of work experience, with a strong focus on developing professional‑level skills. This includes enhancing your industry awareness, building key construction‑sector competencies, understanding workplace expectations and responsibilities, and participating in sector‑specific projects.
You will also have the opportunity to join the Ambition [HUB], where you can partake in employer‑led and career‑focused masterclasses throughout the year. As part of this, you will work on a year‑long employer‑designed project and may undertake up to 160 hours of additional work experience. This extended experience supports your understanding of workplace culture and helps you develop adaptability, communication and resilience.
Successful completion of this course can lead to opportunities for employment or an apprenticeship.
Careers include:
Plumber
Heating Engineer
Gas Engineer
Gas Service Technician
Air Source Heat Pump Installer
You’ll have the chance to explore new interests, develop valuable skills, and build lasting friendships. Getting involved in enrichment activities helps you make the most of your time at Bradford College, enhance your overall experience, and prepare for both work and life beyond your course. You’ll also have opportunities to take part in educational trips linked to your vocational pathway, giving you real‑world insight and hands‑on learning.
Other Costs: Other Costs: When working in the Plumbing workshops, you will need to wear safety boots with steel toe caps and a high‑visibility vest. Please make sure you have access to this equipment before starting the course, as it is essential for taking part in practical sessions safely.You may also be able to receive support through the 16–19 Bursary. This can help with the cost of kit, course‑related equipment and resources, including IT devices, connectivity and textbooks or study materials.
This is representative of the most common fees scenario, but actual fees can vary depending on a number of factors. Please contact us if you need more guidance.
If you have any questions or require any additional information, please contact [email protected]
Disclaimer: Our prospectus, college documents and website are simply here to offer a guide. We accept no liability for any inaccurate statements and are not responsible for any negative outcomes if you rely on an inaccurate statement. We reserve the right to withdraw any programmes or service at any time.
