Starting a Plumbing Apprenticeship

A qualification in plumbing gives you plenty of opportunities for a flexible, successful career. As a plumber, you can work as an employee as part of a company, or you can choose to be self-employed. You can choose to do domestic plumbing work, or you can work on large-scale industrial projects. There are also opportunities for those who want to work abroad, permanently or for a short-term project.

The fastest route to a plumbing job is to do an apprenticeship. This is the way that most skilled crafts are learned. Apprenticeships in plumbing usually last for a period of four years. This time is divided up into theory and practical work. The theory is learned in college classes, and it is necessary to get a good understanding of the work.

The practical side of the apprenticeship is spent with a qualified, experienced plumber, who can show you the necessary skills on the job. This is the most important part of your apprenticeship, as you will pick up the practical knowledge that you need for the career, from someone who has a lifetime's experience working as a plumber. You will also learn how to run your own business, how to pick up work and how to deal with clients. Another great part of the apprenticeship is that you will make contacts, which will lead you to getting work of your own in the future.

This enjoyable and rewarding apprenticeship will equip you with the skills for a life-long career.