Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship
The Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship is designed for individuals who want to build a career in the plumbing and heating industry. This programme prepares you to install, service, maintain, and repair plumbing systems and domestic heating appliances in both residential and commercial settings.
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in the industry while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 48 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and independently in a wide range of environments
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in the industry while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 48 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and independently in a wide range of environments
Course Information
Course Type:
Apprenticeship
Study Mode:
PT Released
Qualification:
Apprenticeship
Location:
Deane Road Campus
Course Code:
SD225-L3
Course Length:
Start Date:
Various start dates from August 2026
Subject Area:
CONSTRUCTION & BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Overview
The Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship is designed for individuals who want to build a career in the plumbing and heating industry. This programme prepares you to install, service, maintain, and repair plumbing systems and domestic heating appliances in both residential and commercial settings.
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in the industry while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 48 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and independently in a wide range of environments
As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in the industry while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 48 months and equips you with the technical knowledge and practical skills to work safely and independently in a wide range of environments
What You'll Learn
You’ll learn how to plan, install, test, commission, and maintain hot and cold water systems, central heating systems, and above-ground drainage. You’ll also gain experience working with modern environmental technologies such as heat pumps, solar thermal systems, and water recycling systems.
The course covers health and safety, customer service, fault diagnosis, and the use of hand and power tools. You’ll also develop an understanding of fuel systems (gas, oil, solid fuel), electrical controls, and sustainability practices within the plumbing and heating sector
The course covers health and safety, customer service, fault diagnosis, and the use of hand and power tools. You’ll also develop an understanding of fuel systems (gas, oil, solid fuel), electrical controls, and sustainability practices within the plumbing and heating sector
How Will I Be Assessed?
You’ll be assessed throughout the apprenticeship through practical tasks, written assignments, and a portfolio of evidence. Your college tutor and employer will help you track your progress and prepare for your final assessment.
At the end of the programme, you’ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes:
A multiple-choice knowledge test
A design project
A practical installation test
A practical application test
A professional discussion
You’ll be graded with a Pass, Merit, or Distinction based on your performance
At the end of the programme, you’ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes:
A multiple-choice knowledge test
A design project
A practical installation test
A practical application test
A professional discussion
You’ll be graded with a Pass, Merit, or Distinction based on your performance
Entry Requirements
There are no formal qualifications needed to start the Plumbing and Domestic Heating Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship—just a strong interest in the trade and a commitment to learning. This programme is ideal for individuals who have completed a Level 2 qualification or have relevant experience in plumbing or construction.
However, some employers may set their own entry requirements. If you have not yet achieved a GCSE Grade 4/C (or equivalent) in English and Maths, you will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 2 in these subjects as part of your apprenticeship. Don’t worry—Bolton College will support you throughout your training
However, some employers may set their own entry requirements. If you have not yet achieved a GCSE Grade 4/C (or equivalent) in English and Maths, you will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 2 in these subjects as part of your apprenticeship. Don’t worry—Bolton College will support you throughout your training
I'm Interested, What Next?
If you’re interested in this apprenticeship, the first step is to register your interest with Bolton College. This will add you to our mailing list so we can keep you informed about any upcoming apprenticeship vacancies or employer opportunities in your chosen field.
To begin the apprenticeship, you’ll need to secure employment with an organisation willing to support you as an apprentice. While it is your responsibility to find and apply for suitable roles, Bolton College is here to help. We have a dedicated Job Shop located within the college, where you can meet with an Employer Engagement Advisor for tailored support and advice on how to apply for vacancies and prepare for interviews.
Job Shop Opening Times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 3:30pm
Email: Job.shop@Boltoncc.ac.uk
Tel: 01204 482182
To begin the apprenticeship, you’ll need to secure employment with an organisation willing to support you as an apprentice. While it is your responsibility to find and apply for suitable roles, Bolton College is here to help. We have a dedicated Job Shop located within the college, where you can meet with an Employer Engagement Advisor for tailored support and advice on how to apply for vacancies and prepare for interviews.
Job Shop Opening Times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 3:30pm
Email: Job.shop@Boltoncc.ac.uk
Tel: 01204 482182
Future Opportunities
After completing this apprenticeship, you’ll be qualified to work as a Plumbing and Heating Technician, Domestic Heating Installer, or Gas Engineer. You may also choose to specialise in renewable energy systems or progress to supervisory, design, or teaching roles.
This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a long-term career in the building services and environmental technology sectors.
This apprenticeship provides a strong foundation for a long-term career in the building services and environmental technology sectors.
Who Can I Speak To?
In the first instance please send a message to apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk
How to Apply?
Click the ‘Express an Interest’ button on this page to express your interest.
You’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that you can track your application. If we dont think you're ready for an Apprenticeship yet, we'll recommend a relevant Study Programme that could eventually lead to the Apprenticeship you're interested in.
If you have any difficulties setting up your Learner Hub account, please email admissions@boltoncc.ac.uk
You’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that you can track your application. If we dont think you're ready for an Apprenticeship yet, we'll recommend a relevant Study Programme that could eventually lead to the Apprenticeship you're interested in.
If you have any difficulties setting up your Learner Hub account, please email admissions@boltoncc.ac.uk
Open Events
Open Events are your chance to experience Bolton College first-hand.
Register for one of the events below to chat to tutors, explore our facilities, and find out more about our amazing courses.
Visit boltoncollege.ac.uk/events to find an event and register.
Register for one of the events below to chat to tutors, explore our facilities, and find out more about our amazing courses.
- Wednesday 15th October 2025, 5pm-7pm
- Tuesday 18th November 2025, 5pm-7pm
- Monday 15th December 2025, 5pm-7pm
- Wednesday 9th February 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Thursday 12th March 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Tuesday 12th May 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Thursday 18th June 2026, 5pm-7pm
- Walk In Day, Thursday 2nd July 2026, 9am-4pm
Visit boltoncollege.ac.uk/events to find an event and register.
Supporting Your Learning
We have a range of dedicated support and wellbeing services including FREE travel, financial support, and impartial advice and guidance. Throughout your Apprenticeship, you’ll also receive one-to-one support from your dedicated Work Based Tutor, helping you to achieve your ambitions
Why Choose Us?
We’re an elite College, and part of the University of Bolton Group, offering you a gateway to all of Greater Manchester’s vast range of fantastic opportunities for specialist careers, university degree courses and higher Apprenticeships.
We’ll reward your achievements with trips to The Anderton Outdoor Activity Centre and the opportunity to apply for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Our £75 million campus offers a refurbished fitness suite and sports hall; Apple Mac suites; libraries, a lecture theatre; hair and beauty salon; and a restaurant, café and canteen.
You’ll also enjoy a wide range of events, including showcases, enterprise activities and cultural celebrations.
We’ll reward your achievements with trips to The Anderton Outdoor Activity Centre and the opportunity to apply for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Our £75 million campus offers a refurbished fitness suite and sports hall; Apple Mac suites; libraries, a lecture theatre; hair and beauty salon; and a restaurant, café and canteen.
You’ll also enjoy a wide range of events, including showcases, enterprise activities and cultural celebrations.
English and maths classes - for adults and young people who want that grade or confidence boost.
What Our Students Say
Anna Shephard
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Lucy Boardman
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