Course Overview

The City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing Studies (6035-02) equips learners with essential skills and knowledge in plumbing and domestic heating practice. It balances workshop-based practical training with theory and technical understanding to prepare you for employment at an improver/plumber’s mate level and support progression into further study, NVQs, or apprenticeships.

This qualification is typically delivered over a full academic year (often 36-54 weeks depending on attendance pattern and provider) and is assessed through a combination of knowledge testing and practical assessment.

For this course you will need steel toe capped safety footwear, stationery & learning materials, notebook or notepad for theory lessons and portfolio notes, pens, pencils, ruler, a tape measure (5 m or similar for practical use) and a folder or binder for organising coursework and evidence.

Entry requirements

Minimum of GCSE Grade 2 in English Language and a minimum of GCSE Grade 2 in Mathematics.

Course Modules

Health & Safety in Building Services Engineering

Understanding safe working practices, risk control, PPE and workplace legislation.

Electrical Principles & Safety

Basic electrical knowledge relevant to plumbing and building services.

Scientific Principles for Plumbing

Properties of materials, fluid dynamics and fundamental science that support plumbing practices.

Common Plumbing Processes

Preparation and use of tools, materials and jointing techniques for pipes and fittings.

Cold Water Systems

Installation, maintenance and principles of cold water distribution.

Hot Water Systems

Principles and installation of domestic hot water systems.

Sanitation & Drainage Systems

Design, installation and maintenance of waste and drainage systems.

Central Heating Systems

Principles and basic installation of central heating pipework and components.

Communication in Building Services Engineering

Workplace communication, documentation, and professional skills.

How will I be assessed?

Externally Set Knowledge Tests

Online multiple-choice exams at the end of each unit across key topics such as safety, cold/hot water, and central heating.

Practical Assessments

Workshop-based practical tasks that build up a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your ability to perform plumbing operations to standard.

Continuous Assessment

Tutor-monitored assignments and observations form part of ongoing assessment throughout the course.

What can I do next

Upon completion you can progress to:

Apprenticeships

Entry to a Plumbing Apprenticeship programme (often linked into an NVQ) where you work and train in industry.

Advanced Study

City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Plumbing Studies – expands on advanced skills and systems.

Apprenticeship standard Level 2 in Plumbing & Heating – industry-recognised competence qualification leading to CSCS cards and progression.

Employment

Roles such as Plumber’s Mate, Junior Plumbing Technician, Installer Assistant, and other trainee positions in commercial or domestic sectors.