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Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. However, if you have a query about the plumbing training courses or RF Training, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Are there any age limits on attending the course?

As a general rule there are no upper and lower age limits to the courses but we have to consider the safety aspect and the responsibilities that we are, and would be expected to adhere to, in respect of suitable applicants. This is an adult course for those wishing to enter the plumbing trade. With this in mind we have set a minimum age limit on the courses of 16 years of age with the provision that the attendee has left the standard UK full time state education system. With regard to upper age limits your health, physical fitness and ability to carry out the tasks required are important.

Are there many women plumbers?

At the moment no, but it is slowly changing. Plumbing tends to be a predominantly male domain but there is no real reason for this. We have had women attend our courses and they have coped just as well as the men.

Can I attend the course two weeks at a time or on a part time basis?

Yes. Our courses are available in a block or on a flexible basis, which can be tailored to meet your individual needs.

Can I talk to a trainer?

Yes of course you can. All you need to do is arrange to visit one of our training centres in either Birmingham or Greater Manchester where you can view the facilities and talk to one of our trainers and take a practical assessment.

Do your training courses run throughout the year?

Yes they do. Whilst they don’t always run back to back, there is never more than a few of weeks gap before the finish and start of a new course.

How can I become a plumber?

The traditional route to becoming a plumber in the UK is via an apprenticeship. With two years study at college and working for a plumbing firm you will progress towards NVQ level 2 or level 3. This typically takes two to three years to complete.

With limited places available in colleges and the difficulty in getting apprenticeships, many people are turning to private companies to bridge the training gap. The choice of courses available is bewildering.

We cannot advise you on which course you should take. Much of this depends on your goals and aspirations and what you want from a plumbing career.

The RF Training 6 week Intensive Plumbing Training Programme has been designed specifically for the domestic plumbing and heating market.

This course includes City & Guilds 6128 Level 2 Technical Certficate, BPEC Water Regulations, Part L Energy Efficiency and the New Logic Foundation Certificate in Basic Heating and Hot Water System Design and Specification.

You now have the opportunity to complete your City and Guilds 6088 NVQ Level 2 by completing an on-site portfolio of evidence.

Our training is designed to ensure that our candidates are able to cope with the vast majority of plumbing jobs that they will experience in the field. This is what we are good at.

The system is tried and tested, and it works. After finishing our course you can start earning money as a plumber in the domestic market. We also recommend you continue your personal development by going on to achieve your NVQ Level 2.

How do I know if I am capable of passing the course?

Our trainers provide hands on practical help to assist you in passing this course and gaining relevant qualifications. If you are uncertain as to your ability to carry out this work and absorb the information, you should book a practical and theory assessment test with us before you pay your deposit. There is no charge for this assessment. All you need to do is arrange to visit either of our training facilities in Birmingham or Greater Manchester.

I am looking for a plumbing apprenticeship, can you help?

We have no direct vacancies for apprentices within our network of engineers.

What are my employment prospects after completion of the course?

British plumbers have made their way back home great in numbers from Eastern European countries.Why? As a result of the strength of the economy there is more work than the qualified plumbers and alot more work opportunities to come in future!

What can I earn as a plumber?

The first question here would be; how hard are you prepared to work? A good plumber can expect to earn in excess of £40,000 a year. Many plumbers will earn more than this although they tend to be operating multi van operations with one or more employees.

What is your refund policy?

You should make every effort to ensure that the dates you book for a course are guaranteed and set aside for the duration of the course. We will not refund course fees due to someone changing their mind or deciding to book a holiday instead of attending the training course. However, we will be as reasonable as possible with regard to accommodating someone who, as a result of illness, or unforeseen circumstances, is unable to attend the training course. Whilst a refund is unlikely to be offered, an alternative course date may be offered at the company discretion.

What type of person would attend your plumbing training courses?

The majority of course attendees are looking to enter into plumbing as a stand alone trade and often end up starting their own plumbing businesses. People who are interested in home improvements or involved with building projects and employees of maintenance companies also regularly attend, including those who are just looking to enhance their existing trade skills or keep up to speed with new regulations such as Part P and Unvented Hot Water Systems.

Where are the training courses based?

We have two centres, one in Central Birmingham the other in Atherton, Greater Manchester.

Will I become CORGI registered?

If you wish to obtain gas registration you must initially follow our 10 week plumbing and gas training.

Alternatively if you undertake our 6 week plumbing training programme you can choose to add the BPEC Gas Foundation at any stage.