Plumbing Training Pack

Plumbing Training Pack www.trainingbyreactfast.co.uk

The ReactFast Professional Plumbing Course AIMED AT : Anyone who wishes to become a Domestic Plumber/Heating Engineer. LOCATION : Birmingham (Hockley) Atherton, Greater Manchester DURATION : 6 weeks full time, part time flexible learning options are also available. QUALIFICATIONS : City & Guilds 6128 Level 2 Technical Certificate - Heating & Ventilation BPEC Water Regulations Part L Energy Efficiency Logic Foundation Cert in Basic Heating & Hot Water Systems, Design & Specification ReactFast Plumbing Award The ReactFast domestic plumbing and heating training course covers all aspects of domestic heating, plumbing, fault finding and maintenance. The course can be delivered in either a block or over a period of time to suit your own individual needs, and is split into two parts Theory Training on the understanding of plumbing & domestic heating systems and Practical Training. All candidates that graduate from the training centre will cover the following types of work: Practical Training Practical work will cover many tasks including: Pipe bending and jointing skills for copper tube to City & Guilds requirements Pipe bending and jointing skills for steel pipe to City & Guilds requirements Install and test sanitaryware and waste pipework to City & Guilds requirements Install and test steel pipe Install and commission bathroom suites Use of plastic push fit plumbing systems Install and commission hot water cylinders and cold water cisterns Install/replace Immersion heaters Installation and commissioning of domestic heating systems Install central heating electrical controls Install washing machine Use of drain rods Fault find and carry out maintenance/ repair on domestic plumbing installations to include: Replace a toilet syphon Replace float operated valves Install isolating and servicing valves Install thermostatic radiator valves Replace kitchen, washbasin and bath taps Replace central heating controls Theory Training The theory side will cover the following modules: Health and Safety Plumbing Processes Cold Water Hot Water Sanitation Drainage Central Heating Design Basic Electrics Fault Finding and Maintenance Water Regulations Part L Energy Efficiency

The ReactFast Professional Plumbing Course Continued AIMED AT : Anyone who wishes to become a Domestic Plumber/Heating Engineer. LOCATION : Birmingham (Hockley) Atherton, Greater Manchester DURATION : 6 weeks full time, part time flexible learning options are also available. QUALIFICATIONS : City & Guilds 6128 Level 2 Technical Certificate - Heating & Ventilation BPEC Water Regulations Part L Energy Efficiency Logic Foundation Cert in Basic Heating & Hot Water Systems, Design & Specification ReactFast Plumbing Award BPEC Water Regulations In July 1999, the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 replaced local water bye laws in England and Wales. They were made under section 74 of the Water Industry Act to prevent the waste, misuse, undue consumption, contamination or erroneous measurement of drinking water. The Regulations set requirements for the design, installation and maintenance of plumbing systems and water fittings and are enforced by water companies in their respective areas of supply. Water systems and fittings in premises that are, or will be, connected to the public water supply must comply with the Regulations. It is essential therefore that you are fully briefed in the way they affect you, which is why this module forms such a crucial element of your theory training. Part L Energy Efficiency Part L of the Building Regulations is regulatory requirement for domestic installers. The training provides an in depth understanding and assessment on this important qualification, covering energy and the environment and includes key facts and figures relating to global warming and what end users and installers can do to help stop climate change. Completion of the programme will allow candidates to self certify the installation of hot water systems in line with Building Regulations. Logic Foundation Certificate in Basic Heating & Hot Water System & Design & Specification Designed to provide the candidate with the a good level of understanding in the design and specification of domestic heating systems. Types of heating and hot water systems, system design including heat loss calculations and correct sizing of hot water systems.

Level 3 Registered Gas Installers Course AIMED AT : Plumbers, bathroom and kitchen fitters, individuals with a mechanical services background. LOCATION : Birmingham (Hockley) Atherton, (Greater Manchester) DURATION : 4 weeks full time, part time flexible learning options are also available. QUALIFICATIONS : BPEC Gas Foundation Certificate ACS - CCN1, CEN1, HTR1, WAT1, & CKR1 The Domestic Gas Foundation training course is accredited by BPEC. The course is aimed at plumbers or people that are working in an associated mechanical services industry that have had little or no previous experience of working in the gas industry. The Domestic Gas Foundation programme must be completed in full before a candidate can be accepted onto the ACS Initial Training & Assessment programme. The Domestic Gas Foundation will provide an individual with critical foundation knowledge and understanding that must be gained before entering the gas industry and ultimately achieving Gas Safe (formerley CORGI) Registration. Theory, practical and assessment in the following: Testing and purging of domestic gas installations Combustion Flues and ventilation Controls for gas appliances Gas pipework Gas industry legislation Installation of domestic gas appliances Commissioning, servicing and maintenance of domestic gas appliances On-Site Practical Experience Following completion of the BPEC Domestic Gas Foundation training programme, the candidate must now work with a Gas Safe registered installer who must observe and sign-off a set number of tasks to complete the candidate s portfolio. These tasks will include: Tightness tests with and without appliances Tightness test (medium pressure) Appliance services Appliance breakdowns Appliance gas rates (imperial and metric) Working pressure at meter checks Standing pressure checks Spillage tests Trace and repair gas leak Flue flow tests Identify correct ventilation Visual flue inspections Working pressure at appliance checks Appliance re-lights The practical works will be signed off by a Gas Safe registered installer. If at any time the Gas Safe registered installer has concerns about the candidates performance, the RGI (Registered Gas Installer) is to take over the work and complete the task. This training is under supervision so this situation should not arise. Upon completion of the tasks, the candidate returns to the ReactFast Training Centre where his/her portfolio of evidence is assessed. If satisfactory, the candidate is awarded the BPEC Domestic Gas Foundation Certification. ACS Training and Assessment By proving a satisfactory knowledge and understanding of Gas Safety, the candidate can now be accepted into an ACS initial gas training and assessment programme. This must be completed over a further 6 day programme. The 6 day programme entails training and assessment for the following: CCN1 - Core Gas Safety CEN1 - Central Heating HTR1 - Gas Fires WAT1 - Water Heaters CKR1 - Cookers Upon completion of the ACS assessments, the candidate can then apply for Gas Safe registration.

ReactFast Training Centre Facilities Such is the quality of the training courses offered by ReactFast that expansion and investment in our training facilities has been a common feature in recent years You can now choose to undertake training in either, Central Birmingham or Atherton, Greater Manchester. Our training facilities are fully equipped with the latest equipment, and are designed to support new entrants to the industry as well as practising tradesmen that need to continue their personal development or require legislative qualifi cations that allow them to continue to trade. All centres benefi t from large open plan workshops for practical training, quiet study areas, and well proportioned classrooms with access to reference materials and technical documentation, and an IT suite for research and online examinations. We provide tools that are yours to keep along with theory and practical instruction delivered by experts that have all done the job for real. Group sizes are limited ensuring that you receive the very best training experience and value for money throughout your programme. Course List Professional Plumbing Course Fast Track Gas Course Electrical Training Locks, Boarding & Glazing Part P Defi ned Scope Part P Full Scope BPEC Water Regulations Part L Energy Effi ciency Unvented Hot Water Cylinders ACS Gas Training & Assessment Level 3 Registered Gas Installers Legionella Prevention Course You re invited! We are proud of our training centres and welcome you to view the facilities for yourself before making any decision. To arrange a visit contact us on 0800 024 1576 or send an email to enquiries@trainingbyreactfast.co.uk

Plumbing skills shortage in the UK Figures suggest there is a shortage of qualified plumbers across the country. This is a big problem that we face as a nation. A plumber provides a much needed service to society, but there simply are not enough of them to keep up with the demand. Unfortunately this is not a problem that will go away; in fact it will get worse. Emigration Last year 207,000 British citizens one every three minutes left the country *. The most popular destinations include Australia, New Zealand and Canada. These countries are crying out for skilled workers and desperately seek skilled people from within the construction industry. They have entry criteria and a proven model of attracting skilled people from other countries including the UK. As more of our skilled workforce leaves these shores, the skills gap continues to grow! (* Daily Telegraph 16th November, 2007) Have a look below at some of the reasons why the national shortage of plumbers will grow over the next 20 years: Supply & Demand More people leave the industry than join it! An estimated 2,000 people per year enter the plumbing industry whilst 5,000 * per year will leave the industry through either retirement, emigration or a variety of other reasons. * Thomas Dudley Ltd Housing Shortage The housing shortage in the UK is well documented. Under existing plans the government expects over one million * new homes to be built over the next decade. Demand for new homes is growing through population growth, more single person households and immigration. *Financemarkets.co.uk, Dec 2007 Attrition Rate amongst School Leavers There is a high attrition rate amongst school leavers that may join a plumbing course at their local FE College. Many do not fi nish their course but instead decide to pursue other options before they complete their training. This is not limited to plumbing but across the board this is not the fault of anybody in particular, lets face it not too many people really know what they want to do for a career at 16-years of age! Small Business The industry is mainly comprised of small, micro businesses that employ just one or two people limiting opportunities for school leavers to gain apprenticeships. Thinking of a New Career as a Qualified Plumber? As the skills gap in the UK job market continues to grow, it is important to understand the factors that contribute to the shortage of skilled plumbers. It is common knowledge that the plumbing industry has been suffering from a lack of skilled people for years. Estimates of the demand will vary, some shortfall numbers predict a shortage as high as 29,000 * people and is anticipated that this number will continue to grow. ( * The Observer) You can see that there are many major factors that contribute to the skills shortage. There has never been a better time to join the plumbing industry. Real opportunities exist for people from all backgrounds to re-train and re-skill in an industry that is recession proof and continuing to grow.

Why Choose ReactFast Training? Changing career is a major decision and one that cannot be taken lightly. It is a choice that can only be made after careful consideration and much thought. If you make the decision to retrain for a new career, you must ensure that your chosen training provider will be able to meet your needs and deliver a quality service that will provide you with the perfect platform from which to launch your new career. We encourage people to research competitors and ask if they can offer the following: ReactFast Training owns and operates its own City and Guilds Accredited training centres. We do not subcontract our training provision. ReactFast is accredited by BPEC (British Plumbers Employers Council), Logic Certification as well as City & Guilds. We offer a free trial allowing you to attend a free workshop before you make any decision. Group sizes are limited ensuring that training is delivered to the very highest of standards. We believe in continuous personal development and provide a platform for progression for those that wish to continue to add to their skills. ReactFast is proud to be recognised as a preferred supplier for Career Transition Partnership on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. ReactFast is proud to be recognised as Investors in People. ReactFast delivers all training via a centre led environment we do not believe that home study courses are a viable option. We provide ongoing technical support and advice for people that have undertaken training with ReactFast. There are no hidden extras. People from across the UK and indeed all over the world travel to our centres to undertake their training with us. We operate an open door policy. We actively encourage people to visit us before they make any decision. You need to see the facilities for yourself. We want you to be sure that you are making the right decision for you and your family. We provide a toolkit that is yours to use throughout the duration of the course and yours to keep at the end of it. Work wear is provided and is yours to keep at the end of the course. We can contribute towards the cost of accommodation if necessary. ReactFast Training is a division of ReactFast Solutions Limited. A substantial business that offers services across the UK, home maintenance contracts and franchise opportunities. Our industry experience has allowed us to design courses that meet industry, customer and your own individual needs. There is a perfect mix of theory and practical study preparing you for your new career. ReactFast was recognised in the Sunday Times/ Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 list in 2005 as one of the fastest growing companies in the UK. Full terms and conditions exist, together with a customer satisfaction / complaints policy.

Trainee Testimonials Ian Barker - Plumbing When Ian Barker was asked the question, why did you become a plumber? Ian commented - I was working as a General Manager in the Hotel and Catering Industry when I decided to do some DIY at home. This made me realise that I did not have any additional skills outside my Industry and that I had nothing to fall back onto if I decided to leave my current position. This gave me the incentive to further my skills in a new trade and by doing so, add value to the type of lifestyle I wished to achieve. Ian decided to train to become a plumber at the ReactFast Plumbing Training Centre in Birmingham. Initially, it was rather daunting as I was uncertain whether I would be able to learn the skills within just 7 weeks and then put those skills into practice in the field. I immediately felt at ease as I found the course extremely relaxing and rewarding and it met all my expectations for what I needed. The course gave me the skills and qualifications I required, and I was confident that I had the ability to put those skills into practice in day to day scenarios. Ian went on to gain 6 months worth of experience working as a subcontractor for ReactFast. I was completing on average 11 jobs a week as a subcontractor. I now know that the skills I have learnt are applicable to the daily work place, and this has given me the confidence to take the next step and purchase my own ReactFast Plumbing Franchise. I would strongly advise anyone considering becoming a plumber to take the step through the ReactFast Training Centre. You can learn a new trade, gain the qualifications and skills you require and coupled with the great support of ReactFast and all their team, you will soon be out in the field reaping the rewards. I earned 12,000 in my first 5 weeks... Richard Roberts - Plumbing Family man Richard Roberts tells us about his experience at the ReactFast Training Centre... After many years in Sales and Project Ian Barker - ReactFast Trainee Management I decided this year on a career change. I liked the idea of using some of my existing skills and becoming a full time plumber but needed formal training. While scouring the internet for suitable courses I came across ReactFast. After checking the course out it was obvious that the content of their training course would give me the qualification and skills to work within the plumbing industry. At thirty one and with a young family to support, my main reservation was the cost of the course, coupled with the idea of such an intensive seven week programme! In July I decided it was now or never, and enrolled. I am happy to say that I needn t have worried about the training course, yes it is intensive and if you want results you have to work hard as well as doing your home work, but from the first day I felt relaxed that I had made the right decision, everything about ReactFast Training is first class, there is a great atmosphere in the centre and the training is carried out by a team of tutors who have a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience. As for the cost, it was money well spent and since successfully completing my course, I am very pleased to say that within four weeks I have paid my course costs back and am enjoying every minute of my new career.

Course Summary COURSE TYPE: 6 Week Professional Plumbing Course COURSE TYPE: Level 3 Registered Gas Installers Course QUALIFICATIONS: QUALIFICATIONS: City & Guilds 6128 Level 2 Technical Certificate - Heating & Ventilation BPEC Water Regulations Part L Energy Efficiency Logic Foundation Cert in Basic Heating & Hot Water Systems, Design & Specification ReactFast Plumbing Award City & Guilds 6128 Level 2 Technical Certificate - Heating & Ventilation BPEC Water Regulations Part L Energy Efficiency Logic Foundation Cert in Basic Heating & Hot Water Systems, Design & Specification ReactFast Plumbing Award BPEC Gas Foundation Certificate ACS - CCN1, CEN1, HTR1, WAT1, CKR1

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Frequently asked questions Over the next few pages you will find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions. However, if you have a query about the course or ReactFast, please do not hesitate to contact us on 0800 024 1576. Q How can I become a plumber/ registered Gas Installer? A 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 ReactFast 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. Alternitavley mature candidates may prefer to follow our recommended Gas Foundation programmes in order to achieve Registered Gas Installer status. Q What type of person would attend your plumbing training courses? A 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. Q I am looking for a plumbing apprenticeship, can you help? A We have no direct vacancies for apprentices within our network of engineers. Q Can you find me a job? A No we cannot. However, if you are intending to start work as a self employed plumber you could register with us for sub contract work. As one of the nations leading providers of work for the trades we are well placed to provide work for sub contractors. We also provide operting licences as part of our Business Start Up opportunities please ask one of our qualified Course Advisors for further information.

Frequently asked questions FAQ s continued... Q Are there any age limits on attending the course? A 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 18 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. Q What can I earn as a plumber? A 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. Q Will I become Gas Safe / CORGI registered? A If you wish to obtain gas registration you must initially follow our 10 week Fast Track Gas Course. Alternatively if you undertake our 6 week plumbing training programme you can choose to add the BPEC Gas Foundation at any stage. Q Do your training courses run throughout the year? A 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. Q Can I attend the course two weeks at a time or on a part time basis? A Yes, our flexible learning option has been designed to be as adaptable as possible so even if you are currently in a full-time job, you can complete the course over a period of time and at a pace that suits you. You will typically attend in either 2 or 5 day blocks to complete the programme. The various modules are scheduled so you are able to attend pretty much as and when you wish. This is not home study but centre led learning. Q Are there many women plumbers? A 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. For further details on being a female plumber, visit our website (www.reactfast.co.uk) and read about ReactFast franchisee Samantha Pardoe s experiences. Q Where are the training courses based? A We have two centres, one in Central Birmingham the other in Atherton, Greater Manchester.

Frequently asked questions FAQ s continued... Q How do I know if I am capable of passing the course? A Our trainers provide hands on practical help to assist you in passing this course and the relevant certificates. 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 one of our Training Centres. Q Can I talk to a trainer? A 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. Q What is your refund policy? A 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. Q Do you offer loans or finances for the courses? A ReactFast now offer in-house finance opportunities, for further information please contact a member of our Training Team on 0800 024 1576 or for information on financial assistance to support your learning, please visit www.direct.gov.uk/adultlearning or contact 0800 100 900. Q Do you run any other courses? A ReactFast offers a variety of courses, both practical and legislative, that will support your continuing personal development. These courses include : Electrical Training Locks, Boarding & Glazing Part P Defined Scope Part P Full Scope BPEC Water Regulations Part L Energy Efficiency Unvented Hot Water Cylinders ACS Gas Training & Assessment BPEC Gas Foundation Course Fast Track Gas Course Legionella Prevention Course Further details are available from our web site at www.trainingbyreactfast.co.uk

How to find us North West Training Centre Courses: Plumbing - Electrical - Locks Howe Bridge Mill Gloucester St, Atherton, Greater Manchester M46 0JT ReactFast Training Centre (Birmingham City Centre) Courses: Electrical Jubilee Centre, Pershore St, Birmingham B5 6ND ReactFast Training Centre (Birmingham) Courses: Plumbing 123 Hockley St / 30 Smith St, Hockley, Birmingham B19 3EX

Get Into Plumbing - Bathroom Design & Installation Programme AIMED AT : The Get Into Plumbing programme has been designed as an introduction to the world of plumbing by following a bespoke 10-day Bathroom Design & Installation programme. Upon completion of the training the candidate will have real skills that can be put into use in the real world as a bathroom fitter. In addition all training undertaken at this stage will count as credits towards a recognised plumbing technical certificate if you choose to continue with your training at a later stage. The time & cost of this programme will also be credited towards our domestic plumbers programme. LOCATION : Birmingham (City Centre) Atherton, Greater Manchester DURATION : 10 days The 10-day programme is predominantly work-shop based and will cover the following practical training program: Safe use of a propane bottle Manual handling Cutting copper tube to pre-set dimensions Jointing copper tube by soldering Jointing copper tube with compression fittings Bending copper tube using pipe benders Jointing plastic pipe with push fit fittings Installing and hanging radiators Copper tube to radiator circuit Isolate radiator to remove from heating circuit Maintenance of radiator valves Copper tube to sanitaryware Installation of bathroom suite to include all pipework for hot and cold installation. All waste pipe and traps from sanitaryware Correct commissioning of bathroom installation Decommissioning of bathroom installation Maintenance for taps, traps, and toilet cisterns, fixing leaks on hot and cold water supply s and waste systems The bathroom assessment and copper pipework assessments can be used as evidence towards a technical certificate.