Construction apprenticeships let you earn a competitive wage while gaining hands-on skills and experience. Learn on the job and build a successful career in this dynamic sector. See below specific apprenticeships in this sector.
Build the practical skills, technical knowledge and workplace experience needed to begin a successful career in bricklaying.
Bricklayers construct and repair walls, foundations and other structures using bricks, blocks and mortar. They work on projects ranging from new homes and extensions to commercial developments and refurbishment work.
During the apprenticeship, you will learn how to interpret drawings, set out basic structures, prepare mortar and construct brick and block walls safely and accurately. You may also work with modern construction methods and prefabricated components.
To begin this apprenticeship, you must:
• Be employed in a suitable bricklaying role
• Be able to undertake the workplace activities required by the apprenticeship
• Hold GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 2 or above, or Functional Skills English and Mathematics at Level 1
• Be prepared to study towards and attempt Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Mathematics during the apprenticeship
• Demonstrate an interest in construction and practical work
• Meet any additional requirements set by your employer
You will receive support to develop your English and mathematics skills alongside your practical and technical training.
Not yet employed? You can register your interest and search for suitable apprenticeship vacancies. You must secure an appropriate job before starting the programme.
This apprenticeship could be right for you if you:
• Enjoy practical, hands-on work
• Take pride in producing accurate, high-quality work
• Are comfortable working indoors and outdoors
• Can follow drawings, measurements and instructions
• Work well as part of a construction team
• Understand the importance of health and safety
• Want to earn a salary while developing a skilled trade
Bricklaying is physically active work and may involve working at height, lifting materials and working in different weather conditions.
• Construction site health and safety
• Identifying hazards and controlling risks
• Safe manual handling
• Working safely at height
• Using personal protective equipment
• Safe use and storage of tools and materials
• Maintaining a clean and organised work area
• Protecting yourself, colleagues and members of the public
• Preparing mortar by hand or using mechanical mixers
• Laying bricks and blocks accurately
• Applying mortar using a trowel
• Constructing straight and level walls
• Producing different brick bonds
• Building corners, junctions and returns
• Forming openings within masonry
• Cutting and shaping bricks and blocks
• Installing wall ties and damp-proof materials
• Finishing joints to the required specification
• Protecting completed and unfinished work
• Reading basic drawings and specifications
• Measuring and marking out work areas
• Completing simple setting-out activities
• Calculating dimensions and quantities
• Checking line, level, gauge and plumb
• Using spirit levels, profiles and plumb lines
• Identifying and correcting inaccuracies
• Properties and uses of bricks, blocks and mortar
• Selecting appropriate materials
• Understanding cavity-wall construction
• Damp prevention and moisture control
• Insulation and energy efficiency
• Modern methods of construction
• Storing and protecting materials
• Reducing waste and working sustainably
• Working reliably and arriving on time
• Following instructions and site procedures
• Communicating with supervisors and other trades
• Working effectively as part of a team
• Taking responsibility for the quality of your work
• Responding positively to feedback
• Respecting customers, colleagues and the environment
• Continuing to develop your occupational skills
Your responsibilities could include:
• Preparing tools, materials and work areas
• Measuring and setting out basic structures
• Mixing mortar to the correct consistency
• Laying bricks and blocks
• Constructing internal and external walls
• Installing wall ties and damp-proof materials
• Cutting and shaping masonry materials
• Checking completed work for line, level and plumb
• Reading drawings and following specifications
• Working safely alongside other construction trades
• Keeping the site clean and reducing material waste
Your duties will develop as your confidence and competence increase.
The apprenticeship typically takes 24 months to reach the end-point assessment gateway, followed by an assessment period of approximately three months. The duration may vary depending on your previous experience, prior learning and workplace opportunities.
Your knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours will be developed and assessed throughout the apprenticeship through:
• Practical workshop activities
• Workplace observations
• Technical knowledge assessments
• An evidence portfolio
• Employer feedback
• Regular progress reviews
• English and mathematics development where required
At the end of the programme, you will complete an independent end-point assessment consisting of:
• Multiple-choice test: Assessing your technical and occupational knowledge
• Portfolio-based interview: Discussing your workplace experience and examples from your evidence portfolio
• Practical assessment with questions: Demonstrating your bricklaying skills under assessment conditions
You must pass all three components. The overall apprenticeship grades are pass, merit, distinction or fail.
At New City College, you will benefit from:
• Practical training in specialist construction workshops
• Teaching from experienced construction professionals
• Training linked directly to your workplace responsibilities
• Regular progress reviews involving you and your employer
• Support to develop accurate and efficient bricklaying techniques
• Guidance when building your evidence portfolio
• Structured preparation for your end-point assessment
• Opportunities to learn alongside apprentices working on different projects
As an apprentice, you will earn a salary, gain valuable site experience and receive your apprenticeship training without paying tuition fees.
After completing the apprenticeship, you could progress into roles such as:
• Bricklayer
• Construction operative
• Maintenance bricklayer
• Housing maintenance operative
• Self-employed bricklayer
• Bricklaying subcontractor
With further experience and study, you could progress into specialist, supervisory or construction-management roles.
Further development could include:
• Craft Bricklayer Level 3
• Occupational Work Supervisor Level 3
• Construction Site Supervisor Level 4
• Specialist heritage or decorative brickwork training
• Construction management qualifications
• Starting your own bricklaying or construction business
Already employed in a suitable bricklaying role? Speak to your employer about starting the apprenticeship with New City College.
Looking for an opportunity? Register your interest and explore our current construction apprenticeship vacancies.
Develop the practical skills, technical knowledge and workplace experience needed for a career working with timber and wood-based materials.
The apprenticeship offers two occupational pathways:
• Site Carpenter: Working on construction sites or in domestic and commercial properties to install structural and finished timber components
• Architectural Joiner: Working mainly in a workshop to manufacture timber products such as doors, windows, frames and staircases
Your pathway will be selected according to your job role and the work undertaken by your employer.
To begin this apprenticeship, you must:
• Be employed in a suitable carpentry or joinery role
• Hold GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 2 or above, or Functional Skills English and Mathematics at Level 1
• Be prepared to study towards and attempt Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Mathematics during the apprenticeship
• Be able to undertake the practical workplace activities required
• Demonstrate an interest in construction and practical work
• Meet any additional requirements set by your employer
You will receive support to develop your English and mathematics skills alongside your practical and technical training.
Not yet employed? You can register your interest and search for suitable apprenticeship vacancies. You must secure an appropriate job before starting the programme.
This apprenticeship could be right for you if you:
• Enjoy practical, hands-on work
• Are interested in working with timber
• Take pride in accurate, high-quality work
• Can follow drawings, measurements and instructions
• Enjoy solving practical problems
• Can work independently and as part of a team
• Understand the importance of health and safety
• Want to earn a salary while developing a skilled trade
All apprentices will develop knowledge and skills in:
• Construction site and workshop safety
• Safe use of hand tools and power tools
• Timber types, properties and uses
• Reading drawings and specifications
• Measuring, marking out and cutting materials
• Producing basic woodworking joints
• Selecting and storing materials
• Checking quality and accuracy
• Reducing waste and working sustainably
• Communicating with customers, supervisors and other trades
As a site carpenter apprentice, you may learn how to:
• Install structural timber components
• Construct timber partitions and stud walls
• Install floor joists and floor coverings
• Construct basic traditional and prefabricated roofs
• Install straight staircases
• Fit door frames, doors and ironmongery
• Install skirting boards and architraves
• Fit window boards, handrails and spindles
• Install wall and floor units
• Complete first-fix and second-fix carpentry
• Use laser levels and other setting-out equipment
• Form connections using joints, screws, nails, bolts and adhesives
As an architectural joiner apprentice, you may learn how to:
• Set out and mark timber products
• Produce setting rods and templates
• Manufacture timber doors, windows and frames
• Produce straight staircases
• Create mortise and tenon, dovetail, bridle and halving joints
• Use dowels, biscuits, staples and adhesives
• Fit ironmongery to manufactured products
• Understand the requirements of fire door assemblies
• Inspect, prepare and operate fixed workshop machinery
• Assemble and finish timber components
• Check completed products against drawings and specifications
Depending on your pathway, your responsibilities could include:
• Preparing tools, materials and work areas
• Reading and interpreting construction drawings
• Measuring and marking timber
• Cutting, shaping and joining materials
• Installing or manufacturing timber components
• Fitting doors, frames, floors, partitions or staircases
• Using hand tools, power tools or fixed machinery
• Checking completed work for accuracy and quality
• Working safely alongside other construction trades
• Maintaining tools and keeping work areas organised
• Reducing waste and protecting materials
Your responsibilities will develop as your confidence and competence increase.
The apprenticeship typically takes 24 months to reach the end-point assessment gateway, followed by an assessment period of approximately three months. The duration may vary depending on your previous experience, prior learning and workplace opportunities.
Your knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours will be developed and assessed throughout the apprenticeship through:
• Practical workshop activities
• Workplace observations
• Technical knowledge assessments
• An evidence portfolio
• Employer feedback
• Regular progress reviews
• English and mathematics development
At the end of the programme, you will complete an independent end-point assessment consisting of:
• Multiple-choice test: Assessing your technical and occupational knowledge
• Practical assessment with questions: Demonstrating skills relevant to your selected pathway
• Portfolio-based interview: Discussing your workplace experience and evidence with an independent assessor
You must pass all three components. The overall apprenticeship grades are pass, merit, distinction or fail.
At New City College, you will benefit from:
• Practical training in specialist construction workshops
• Teaching from experienced construction professionals
• Training linked to your workplace responsibilities
• Development across first-fix and second-fix techniques or workshop joinery
• Regular progress reviews involving you and your employer
• Support to develop accurate and efficient working practices
• Guidance when building your evidence portfolio
• Structured preparation for your end-point assessment
As an apprentice, you will earn a salary, gain valuable industry experience and receive your apprenticeship training without paying tuition fees.
After completing the apprenticeship, you could progress into roles such as:
• Site carpenter
• Architectural joiner
• Maintenance carpenter
• Bench joiner
• Construction operative
• Housing maintenance operative
• Self-employed carpenter or joiner
• Carpentry or joinery subcontractor
Further development could include:
• Craft Carpentry and Joinery Level 3
• Occupational Work Supervisor Level 3
• Construction Site Supervisor Level 4
• Specialist fire door installation training
• Heritage or conservation carpentry
• Construction management qualifications
• Starting your own carpentry or joinery business
Already employed in a suitable carpentry or joinery role? Speak to your employer about starting the apprenticeship with New City College.
Looking for an opportunity? Register your interest and explore our current construction apprenticeship vacancies.
Develop the technical knowledge, practical competence and workplace experience needed to become an installation or maintenance electrician.
Electricians install, maintain and repair electrical systems in industrial, commercial and residential environments. They may work with wiring systems, distribution equipment, lighting, power supplies, control equipment and automated systems.
You will learn how to complete electrical work safely, interpret technical information, install equipment, inspect and test systems, diagnose faults and maintain accurate certification.
To begin this apprenticeship, you must:
• Be employed in a suitable electrical installation or maintenance role
• Hold GCSE English at grade 4 or above
• Hold GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 or above
• Be able to undertake the full range of workplace activities required
• Demonstrate an interest in electrical engineering and practical work
• Meet any additional requirements set by your employer
• Successfully complete New City College’s initial assessment and suitability process
Because the programme includes electrical theory, technical calculations and detailed written documentation, strong English and mathematics skills are essential.
Not yet employed? You can register your interest and search for suitable apprenticeship vacancies. You must secure an appropriate electrical job before starting the programme.
This apprenticeship could be right for you if you:
• Are interested in electrical systems and technology
• Enjoy practical work and technical problem-solving
• Can work accurately and follow detailed instructions
• Understand the importance of electrical safety
• Are comfortable using mathematics and technical calculations
• Can work independently and as part of a team
• Want to earn a salary while training to become an electrician
• Electrical hazards and risk assessment
• Safe isolation procedures
• Selection and use of personal protective equipment
• Health and safety legislation
• Environmental requirements
• Working safely at height or in restricted spaces
• Safe use of tools and test equipment
• Protecting customers, colleagues and members of the public
• Voltage, current, resistance and power
• Alternating and direct current
• Series and parallel circuits
• Electrical calculations
• Magnetism and electromagnetic effects
• Earthing and bonding
• Overcurrent and fault protection
• Electrical supply systems
• Cable selection and voltage drop
• Interpreting drawings and specifications
• Planning and preparing electrical work
• Installing cables and wiring systems
• Installing conduit, trunking and cable-management systems
• Connecting and terminating conductors
• Installing distribution equipment
• Installing lighting and power circuits
• Selecting appropriate equipment and materials
• Applying the current edition of the Wiring Regulations
• Following Building Regulations and industry guidance
• Safe isolation before testing
• Visual inspection of installations
• Selecting and using test instruments
• Continuity, insulation resistance and polarity testing
• Earthing and fault-loop testing
• Residual current device testing
• Interpreting test results
• Completing electrical certificates and reports
• Commissioning electrical systems safely
• Planned and preventative maintenance
• Diagnosing electrical faults
• Using logical fault-finding techniques
• Repairing or replacing faulty components
• Maintaining electrical and electronic equipment
• Testing systems following repair
• Returning equipment to safe operation
• Recording maintenance and repair activities
• Energy efficiency
• Environmental responsibilities
• Low-carbon electrical technologies
• Renewable-energy systems
• Electric vehicle charging
• Smart controls and energy management
• The electrician’s role in supporting net-zero objectives
• Working safely and responsibly
• Producing accurate, high-quality work
• Communicating with customers and colleagues
• Managing time and resources
• Maintaining tools and equipment
• Taking responsibility for decisions
• Working professionally and ethically
• Continuing professional development
Your responsibilities could include:
• Reading drawings and electrical specifications
• Planning electrical installation or maintenance work
• Installing cables, containment and equipment
• Connecting circuits and electrical accessories
• Inspecting and testing installations
• Diagnosing and repairing electrical faults
• Completing planned maintenance
• Applying electrical regulations and safe working practices
• Recording test results and completing certification
• Communicating with customers, supervisors and other trades
• Keeping work areas safe, clean and organised
Your employer must provide opportunities for you to develop the full range of occupational competence required by the apprenticeship.
During the apprenticeship, you must complete the approved Electrotechnical Apprenticeship Qualification. This combines technical knowledge with evidence of practical competence gained in the workplace.
The qualification must be completed before you progress to the end-point assessment.
The apprenticeship typically takes 54 months, or 4.5 years, to reach the end-point assessment gateway, followed by an assessment period of approximately six months.
The duration may vary depending on your previous experience, prior learning and the opportunities available within your workplace.
Your knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours will be developed and assessed throughout the apprenticeship through:
• Practical workshop activities
• Written and online knowledge assessments
• Workplace observations
• Practical competence assessments
• Workplace evidence and documentation
• Employer feedback
• Regular progress reviews
• Completion of the Electrotechnical Apprenticeship Qualification
At the end of the programme, you will complete an independent end-point assessment consisting of:
• Online knowledge assessment: Testing your understanding and application of electrical knowledge
• Observation of practical competence: Completing electrical tasks in a controlled assessment environment
• Employer validation of behaviours: Confirming that you consistently demonstrate the professional behaviours expected of an electrician
All elements must be successfully completed to achieve the apprenticeship.
At New City College, you will benefit from:
• Practical training in specialist electrical workshops
• Teaching from experienced electrical professionals
• Training linked to current industry requirements
• Development in installation, testing, maintenance and fault-finding
• Regular progress reviews involving you and your employer
• Support to gather workplace evidence
• Preparation for technical and practical assessments
• Structured end-point assessment preparation
As an apprentice, you will earn a salary, gain valuable industry experience and receive your apprenticeship training without paying tuition fees.
After completing the apprenticeship, you could progress into roles such as:
• Installation electrician
• Maintenance electrician
• Electrician
• Electrical maintenance technician
• Electrical service technician
• Electrical contractor
• Facilities maintenance electrician
With further experience and training, you could specialise in:
• Electrical inspection and testing
• Electrical design
• Industrial controls and automation
• Electric vehicle charging
• Solar photovoltaic systems
• Building-management systems
• Fire and security systems
• Supervisory or project-management roles
You may also progress to higher-level electrical or engineering qualifications, an HNC, HND or relevant degree apprenticeship, or establish your own electrical contracting business.
Successful completion can support an application for the appropriate Electrotechnical Certification Scheme card, subject to current scheme requirements. The apprenticeship also aligns with Institution of Engineering and Technology Technician Member recognition.
Already employed in a suitable electrical role? Speak to your employer about starting the apprenticeship with New City College.
Looking for an opportunity? Register your interest and explore our current electrical apprenticeship vacancies.
Develop the practical skills, technical knowledge and workplace experience needed for a career in painting and decorating.
Painters and decorators prepare, protect and finish internal and external surfaces in domestic, commercial and public buildings. These may include homes, schools, offices, hospitals, factories and construction sites.
You will learn how to prepare different surfaces, apply water-based and solvent-based coatings, hang wallcoverings and produce a high-quality finish.
To begin this apprenticeship, you must:
• Be employed in a suitable painting and decorating role
• Hold GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 2 or above, or Functional Skills English and Mathematics at Level 1
• Be prepared to study towards and attempt Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Mathematics during the apprenticeship
• Be able to undertake the practical workplace activities required
• Demonstrate an interest in construction and practical work
• Meet any additional requirements set by your employer
You will receive support to develop your English and mathematics skills alongside your practical and technical training.
Not yet employed? You can register your interest and search for suitable apprenticeship vacancies. You must secure an appropriate job before starting the programme.
This apprenticeship could be right for you if you:
• Enjoy practical and creative work
• Take pride in producing a high-quality finish
• Have good attention to detail
• Can follow instructions and specifications
• Are comfortable working indoors and outdoors
• Can work independently and as part of a team
• Are prepared to work at height when required
• Want to earn a salary while developing a skilled trade
• Construction and workplace health and safety
• Identifying hazards and following risk assessments
• Safe use of personal and respiratory protective equipment
• Dust control and extraction
• Working safely with paints, solvents and other materials
• Reading manufacturers’ safety information
• Safe use of steps, hop-ups and podiums
• Manual handling
• Maintaining a clean and organised work area
• Assessing the condition of surfaces
• Removing defective or damaged coatings
• Cleaning and preparing work areas
• Filling cracks, holes and surface defects
• Applying fillers, sealants, caulks and primers
• Sanding surfaces manually and using power tools
• Preparing plaster, render and plasterboard
• Preparing timber and wood-based materials
• Preparing ferrous and non-ferrous metals
• Preparing previously painted surfaces
• Selecting suitable paints and coating systems
• Understanding water-based and solvent-based products
• Preparing paint and materials
• Applying coatings using brushes and rollers
• Painting walls and ceilings
• Painting doors and windows
• Painting skirting boards and architraves
• Applying internal and external finishing systems
• Following the correct application sequence
• Identifying and correcting finish defects
• Measuring and calculating material requirements
• Preparing walls for papering
• Applying lining and foundation papers
• Hanging wallcoverings vertically or across surfaces
• Papering around sockets and switches
• Finishing internal and external corners
• Working with free-match and random-match papers
• Selecting and applying appropriate adhesives
• Identifying and correcting wallcovering defects
• Selecting and using painting and decorating hand tools
• Using brushes, rollers, scrapers and filling tools
• Using power sanders with dust extraction
• Using power drills and preparation equipment
• Using hot-air and infrared equipment safely
• Cleaning, maintaining and storing tools
• Checking access equipment before use
• Reading drawings, specifications and work instructions
• Interpreting colour charts and manufacturers’ information
• Estimating materials and resources
• Planning the sequence of work
• Protecting furniture, fittings and surrounding surfaces
• Inspecting completed work
• Rectifying damage and application defects
• Completing work within agreed timescales
• Putting health and safety first
• Taking responsibility for the quality of your work
• Working effectively as part of a team
• Communicating with customers and colleagues
• Respecting customer property
• Using materials efficiently
• Reducing, recycling and disposing of waste responsibly
• Continuing to develop your occupational skills
Your responsibilities could include:
• Preparing and protecting work areas
• Removing old paint or wallcoverings
• Repairing minor surface defects
• Preparing plaster, timber and metal surfaces
• Mixing and preparing coating materials
• Applying paint using brushes and rollers
• Painting walls, ceilings, doors and woodwork
• Preparing and hanging wallcoverings
• Completing internal and external decoration
• Checking the quality of finished work
• Cleaning and maintaining tools
• Communicating with customers, supervisors and other trades
Your responsibilities will develop as your confidence and competence increase.
The apprenticeship typically takes 24 months to reach the end-point assessment gateway, followed by an assessment period of approximately three months.
The duration may vary depending on your previous experience, prior learning and workplace opportunities.
Your knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours will be developed and assessed throughout the apprenticeship through:
• Practical workshop activities
• Workplace observations
• Technical knowledge assessments
• An evidence portfolio
• Employer feedback
• Regular progress reviews
• English and mathematics development
At the end of the programme, you will complete an independent end-point assessment consisting of:
• Multiple-choice test: Assessing your technical and occupational knowledge
• Practical assessment with questions: Demonstrating surface preparation, painting and wallcovering skills
• Portfolio-based interview: Discussing your workplace experience and evidence with an independent assessor
You must pass all three components. The overall apprenticeship grades are pass, merit, distinction or fail.
At New City College, you will benefit from:
• Practical training in specialist construction workshops
• Teaching from experienced painting and decorating professionals
• Training linked directly to your workplace responsibilities
• Development across surface preparation, coatings and wallcoverings
• Regular progress reviews involving you and your employer
• Support to develop efficient and accurate working techniques
• Guidance when building your evidence portfolio
• Structured preparation for your end-point assessment
As an apprentice, you will earn a salary, gain valuable industry experience and receive your apprenticeship training without paying tuition fees.
After completing the apprenticeship, you could progress into roles such as:
• Painter
• Painter and decorator
• Maintenance painter
• Housing maintenance decorator
• Construction finishing operative
• Self-employed painter and decorator
• Painting and decorating subcontractor
Further development could include:
• Craft Painter and Decorator Level 3
• Occupational Work Supervisor Level 3
• Construction Site Supervisor Level 4
• Decorative finishing and specialist coating training
• Heritage and conservation decoration
• Supervisory or contracts-management roles
• Starting your own painting and decorating business
Already employed in a suitable painting and decorating role? Speak to your employer about starting the apprenticeship with New City College.
Looking for an opportunity? Register your interest and explore our current construction apprenticeship vacancies.
Develop the practical skills, technical knowledge and workplace competence needed for a career in plumbing and domestic gas heating.
You will learn how to plan, install, test, commission, service and repair plumbing and domestic heating systems. This includes cold water, hot water, sanitation, rainwater and wet central-heating systems.
The natural gas pathway also develops the specialist competence required to work with natural gas systems, boilers and water heaters. All gas work must be completed under appropriate supervision until you have achieved the required qualifications and registration.
To begin this apprenticeship, you must:
• Be employed in a suitable plumbing and domestic heating role
• Hold GCSE English at grade 4 or above
• Hold GCSE Mathematics at grade 4 or above
• Have access to the range of plumbing, heating and natural gas work required by the apprenticeship
• Demonstrate an interest in plumbing, heating and practical work
• Meet any additional requirements set by your employer
• Successfully complete New City College’s initial assessment and suitability process
Strong English and mathematics skills are essential because the programme involves technical calculations, interpreting regulations and completing detailed safety documentation.
Not yet employed? You can register your interest and search for suitable apprenticeship vacancies. You must secure an appropriate job before starting the programme.
This apprenticeship could be right for you if you:
• Enjoy practical, hands-on work
• Are interested in plumbing, heating and gas systems
• Can work accurately and follow safety procedures
• Enjoy diagnosing and solving technical problems
• Are comfortable working in customers’ homes
• Can communicate professionally with customers and colleagues
• Understand the importance of regulation and public safety
• Want to earn a salary while developing a skilled trade
• Health and safety legislation
• Risk assessments and method statements
• Safe use of hand and power tools
• Manual handling and working at height
• Personal protective equipment
• Electrical safe isolation
• Gas-safety responsibilities
• Protecting customers, colleagues and property
• Maintaining clean and safe work areas
• Cold-water systems
• Hot-water systems
• Sanitary appliances and systems
• Rainwater systems
• Domestic pipework
• Selecting and using plumbing materials
• Pipe bending, jointing and connection methods
• Installing and testing plumbing components
• Decommissioning plumbing systems safely
• Wet central-heating systems
• Boilers, cylinders, pumps and controls
• Radiators and heat emitters
• Open-vented and sealed systems
• Heating-system design principles
• Sizing and selecting components
• Filling, flushing and commissioning
• Energy efficiency and system performance
• Servicing and maintaining heating systems
• Core domestic gas safety
• Natural gas characteristics and combustion
• Gas pipework and installation requirements
• Gas pressures and flow rates
• Gas tightness testing and purging
• Ventilation requirements
• Flues and combustion products
• Installation and commissioning of gas boilers
• Domestic gas water heaters
• Gas controls and safety devices
• Identifying unsafe situations
• Servicing and maintaining gas appliances
• Diagnosing and rectifying gas-related faults
• Current gas legislation, standards and guidance
The pathway covers domestic natural gas systems up to the limits defined by the apprenticeship standard, including gas-fired hot-water and central-heating appliances.
• Electrical principles relevant to heating systems
• Safe isolation procedures
• Heating controls, programmers and thermostats
• Wiring and testing heating-system controls
• Commissioning electrical control components
• Diagnosing basic electrical control faults
• Understanding the limits of plumbing and heating competence
• Identifying customer requirements
• Explaining system operation
• Providing demonstrations and handovers
• Completing technical and safety documentation
• Communicating professionally in customers’ homes
• Protecting customer property
• Responding appropriately to complaints or concerns
• Working safely and responsibly
• Producing accurate, high-quality work
• Taking ownership of tasks
• Working independently and as part of a team
• Managing time and resources
• Maintaining tools and equipment
• Responding positively to feedback
• Continuing professional development
Your responsibilities could include:
• Installing pipework and plumbing systems
• Fitting sanitary appliances
• Installing hot-water and central-heating systems
• Installing boilers, radiators and heating controls
• Testing pipework and checking system performance
• Commissioning and handing over completed systems
• Servicing boilers and heating appliances
• Diagnosing plumbing and heating faults
• Repairing or replacing defective components
• Completing gas-safety checks under appropriate supervision
• Recording test results and completing documentation
• Explaining system operation to customers
Your employer must provide access to the full range of plumbing, heating and natural gas activities required by the apprenticeship.
During the apprenticeship, you must complete:
• Level 3 Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating
• CCN1: Core Domestic Gas Safety
• CENWAT: Domestic Gas Central Heating Boilers and Water Heaters, or approved equivalent qualifications
The CCN1 and CENWAT assessments are integrated into the end-point assessment for the natural gas pathway.
Successful completion of the ACS requirements enables you to apply for Gas Safe registration. Registration is a separate process and is subject to meeting the current Gas Safe Register requirements.
The apprenticeship typically takes 48 months, or four years, to reach the end-point assessment gateway, followed by an assessment period of approximately six months.
The duration may vary depending on your previous experience, prior learning and the workplace opportunities provided by your employer.
Your progress will be assessed throughout the apprenticeship through:
• Practical workshop activities
• Technical knowledge assessments
• Workplace observations
• An apprenticeship evidence portfolio
• Practical competence assessments
• Employer feedback
• Regular progress reviews
• Completion of the Level 3 Diploma
At the end of the programme, you will complete an independent end-point assessment consisting of:
• Knowledge test: Assessing your plumbing, heating and natural gas knowledge
• Practical planning test: Assessing your ability to plan work, select systems and calculate requirements
• Practical competence test: Demonstrating plumbing, heating and gas-related competence
• Portfolio-based interview: Discussing your workplace experience with an independent assessor
The CCN1 and CENWAT assessments are partly integrated into the knowledge and practical competence tests. The overall apprenticeship grades are pass, distinction or fail.
At New City College, you will benefit from:
• Practical training in specialist plumbing and heating workshops
• Teaching from experienced industry professionals
• Training linked to current plumbing and gas requirements
• Development in installation, commissioning, servicing and fault-finding
• Regular progress reviews involving you and your employer
• Support to gather workplace evidence
• Preparation for the ACS assessments
• Structured preparation for your end-point assessment
As an apprentice, you will earn a salary, gain valuable industry experience and receive your apprenticeship training without paying tuition fees.
After completing the apprenticeship, you could progress into roles such as:
• Plumber
• Domestic heating engineer
• Domestic heating installer
• Gas service engineer
• Gas maintenance engineer
• Boiler installation engineer
• Heating and plumbing engineer
• Plumbing and heating contractor
With further experience and training, you could specialise in:
• Commercial plumbing and heating
• Air-source heat pumps
• Solar thermal systems
• Heating-system design
• Building-services engineering
• Supervisory or project-management roles
• Starting your own plumbing and heating business
The apprenticeship aligns with the requirements for Engineering Technician recognition through relevant professional engineering institutions.
Already employed in a suitable plumbing and domestic heating role? Speak to your employer about starting the apprenticeship with New City College.
Looking for an opportunity? Register your interest and explore our current plumbing and heating apprenticeship vacancies.
Develop the practical skills, technical knowledge and workplace experience needed to maintain buildings safely and effectively.
Property maintenance operatives complete routine maintenance and minor repairs across a range of trades. This can include carpentry, plumbing, plastering, painting, decorating, tiling, flooring, masonry and external works.
You could work in housing, education, healthcare, hospitality, leisure, retail, commercial buildings or public services. The role focuses on keeping properties safe, functional and in a good state of repair.
To begin this apprenticeship, you must:
• Be employed in a suitable property or facilities maintenance role
• Hold GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 2 or above, or Functional Skills English and Mathematics at Level 1
• Be prepared to study towards and attempt Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Mathematics during the apprenticeship
• Be able to undertake the practical workplace activities required
• Demonstrate an interest in construction, maintenance and practical work
• Meet any additional requirements set by your employer
You will receive support to develop your English and mathematics skills alongside your practical and technical training.
Not yet employed? You can register your interest and search for suitable apprenticeship vacancies. You must secure an appropriate job before starting the programme.
This apprenticeship could be right for you if you:
• Enjoy practical work and solving everyday problems
• Want to develop skills across several construction trades
• Are interested in how buildings and their systems operate
• Can work safely and follow instructions
• Enjoy completing a variety of different tasks
• Can communicate professionally with customers and colleagues
• Can work independently and as part of a team
• Want to earn a salary while developing recognised skills
• Workplace and construction health and safety
• Identifying hazards and following risk assessments
• Safe use of personal protective equipment
• Manual handling
• Working safely at height
• Asbestos awareness
• Fire safety and emergency procedures
• Safe use of hand and power tools
• Preparing and reinstating work areas
• Recognising and reporting work beyond your competence
• Repairing doors, frames and associated fittings
• Repairing windows and glazing components
• Fitting or replacing locks, handles and ironmongery
• Repairing skirting boards and timber components
• Measuring, marking and cutting materials
• Producing basic joints and fixings
• Selecting suitable timber and sheet materials
• Identifying minor plumbing faults
• Isolating water supplies safely
• Repairing dripping taps
• Replacing basic plumbing components
• Completing minor repairs to WC systems
• Clearing simple blockages
• Maintaining internal and external drainage
• Understanding water hygiene
• Reporting specialist plumbing or gas-related faults
• Preparing and protecting work areas
• Preparing previously coated surfaces
• Filling minor cracks and surface defects
• Applying paint using brushes and rollers
• Completing minor decorative repairs
• Applying sealants and caulks
• Cleaning and storing tools and materials safely
• Repairing minor damage to plastered surfaces
• Preparing and mixing repair materials
• Completing small patch repairs
• Setting out replacement tiles
• Cutting and fixing tiles around obstacles
• Replacing damaged wall or floor tiles
• Completing minor flooring repairs
• Selecting appropriate adhesives and finishing materials
• Completing minor brick-and-block repairs
• Repairing small areas of mortar
• Maintaining fencing, gates and railings
• Clearing and maintaining gutters and drainage
• Completing minor groundwork or landscaping repairs
• Identifying defects in roofs and external building fabric
• Making areas safe while specialist repairs are arranged
• Understanding basic building-services systems
• Safely isolating electrical or electronic supplies where authorised
• Completing routine checks of safety and emergency systems
• Identifying and reporting electrical faults
• Supporting energy and environmental management
• Recognising when a specialist qualified trade is required
This apprenticeship does not qualify an apprentice to undertake specialist electrical or gas work independently.
• Identifying and investigating maintenance problems
• Planning the sequence of maintenance activities
• Selecting tools, materials and equipment
• Reading work instructions and technical information
• Recording work using written and digital systems
• Communicating with residents, customers and contractors
• Inspecting completed work
• Reporting additional defects or concerns
Your responsibilities could include:
• Completing planned and preventative maintenance
• Responding to repair requests
• Inspecting buildings and identifying defects
• Repairing doors, windows and fixtures
• Completing minor plumbing and drainage repairs
• Patching damaged plaster
• Painting and decorating repaired areas
• Replacing damaged tiles or flooring
• Completing minor external repairs
• Checking safety systems
• Recording completed work digitally
• Escalating specialist or unsafe work
• Maintaining tools, materials and stock
Your employer must provide opportunities to develop competence across the range of maintenance activities required by the apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship typically takes 24 months to reach the end-point assessment gateway, followed by an assessment period of approximately three months.
The duration may vary depending on your previous experience, prior learning and workplace opportunities.
Your knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours will be developed and assessed throughout the apprenticeship through:
• Practical workshop activities
• Workplace observations
• Technical knowledge assessments
• An evidence portfolio
• Employer feedback
• Regular progress reviews
• English and mathematics development
At the end of the programme, you will complete an independent end-point assessment consisting of:
• Practical assessment with questions: Demonstrating a range of property-maintenance skills
• Portfolio-based interview: Discussing your workplace experience and evidence with an independent assessor
• Multiple-choice test: Assessing your technical and occupational knowledge
You must pass all three components. The overall apprenticeship grades are pass, merit, distinction or fail.
At New City College, you will benefit from:
• Practical training across several construction trades
• Teaching from experienced construction professionals
• Training linked directly to your workplace responsibilities
• Development in planned and responsive maintenance
• Regular progress reviews involving you and your employer
• Support to develop safe and efficient working practices
• Guidance when building your evidence portfolio
• Structured preparation for your end-point assessment
As an apprentice, you will earn a salary, gain valuable industry experience and receive your apprenticeship training without paying tuition fees.
After completing the apprenticeship, you could progress into roles such as:
• Property maintenance operative
• Maintenance assistant
• Maintenance technician
• Multi-skilled trade operative
• Facilities assistant
• Caretaker
• Premises assistant
• Housing maintenance operative
Further development could include:
• A specialist apprenticeship in carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation or another trade
• Facilities Services Operative Level 2
• Facilities Management Supervisor Level 3
• Occupational Work Supervisor Level 3
• Construction Site Supervisor Level 4
• Property or facilities management qualifications
• Supervisory and team-leadership roles
Already employed in a suitable property-maintenance role? Speak to your employer about starting the apprenticeship with New City College.
Looking for an opportunity? Register your interest and explore our current property-maintenance apprenticeship vacancies.
