General FAQs

This is the list of general Frequently Asked Questions about all of our training services.  For more specific questions and answers please see your chosen courses individual FAQs and also the following pages, accommodation FAQs, facilities FAQs or funding FAQs.

Q - Can I visit your training centres for a look around before I book my training course?

A -  Yes of course! You may visit our centre at any time, just phone and we will book you an appointment.  Unlike some centres, we encourage you to talk to our current students while you are here.  In fact, it is a mandatory requirement of a visit!

Q - I have no qualifications, do I need any?

A - Our trainees come from a wide range of backgrounds.  You don’t need any qualifications, just a willingness to learn and a good sense of humour.

Q - There are many training centres, are you the cheapest?

A - We never claim to be the cheapest but we certainly believe we are the best value for money when compared to other centres.  We have a student to trainer ratio of 1:6 which means you get all the support and attention you need (just see our student feedback).

Q - Do I need any special clothing or tools for the 4/8/10 week plumbing courses?

A - Absolutely not! We provide you with a full plumber’s tool kit containing everything you need including a machine pipe bender.  In addition, we give you overalls, gloves and knee pads for your comfort and safety.

Q - Do you accept service leavers?

A - Yes, we welcome people from all service backgrounds.

Q - What 'standard' am I learning to?

A - We are an approved City & Guilds, LOGIC, Bpec and NICEIC training centre.  We teach to their standards.

Q - I live too far away from your training centre, do you recommend local accommodation?

A - Many of our trainees come from all over the UK due to our reputation.  They stay in B&B accommodation for their relatively short course duration.  We have details of reasonable accommodation providers on the accommodation page.  York is an excellent place to stay during the week, with loads of pubs, good restaurants and night life.  Please see the accommodation page for more information.

Q - You seem to offer a wide range of courses and qualifications, what about other centres that just offer Bpec Water Regulations or seem to be one man bands?

A - Being taught by an "old plumber" may sound like a good idea, but as everyone knows, being able to do something doesn't necessarily make you a good teacher.  We advise you to be cautious of "one man band" centres.  We have a team of fifteen training staff, which provides us with the resources to cover any holiday/sick leave.  Centres which just offer a written test such as water regulations are not externally monitored for practical teaching / assessing as we are.

For more specific questions and answers please see your chosen courses individual FAQs, and also the following pages, accommodation FAQs, facilities FAQs or funding FAQs or continue to browse the rest of the site.