FAQs

I have no experience in plumbing at all. Is that a problem?

Of course not! The training starts at the very basics and you will build on your new skills module by module, working at a pace that suits you. Our trainers have many years of experience in teaching you all the skills you will need to become a competent, qualified Master Plumber.

Why do I have to come for an interview at BTSC?

We need to assess your suitability to train, ensure you pass our aptitude test and find determined people who are committed to becoming plumbers. Remember, all fully qualified trainees that have asked us to find them a plumbing job have been placed with one of our associated companies and so have most of those that have only partly qualified and so it is important we select the right people for training.

Are your fast-track courses very intensive?

You will need to be prepared to roll your sleeves up and get working but the training is structured to be achievable and interesting. Our course content contains all you need to know to pass your exams and become a certified, professional plumber. Remember, our trainers are on hand to help and support you. We have a self-study room in our centres where a trainer regularly visits to answer any questions and you can even book a one-to-one tutorial session with one of our trainers if you want. Don’t worry!

I need a job. Can you help me?

Yes, that is exactly what BTSC is all about! We are working hard to fill the skills gap in the industry and our course is designed to get you into employment and earning money. As soon as you partly qualify by getting your Technical Certificate Level 3 we help you with your CV, give you specialist interview training and endeavour to arrange an interview for you with one of our associated companies nearest to where you live. Whilst there is no absolute guarantee of placement, as this obviously depends on how trainees present themselves at any interviews, we have placed 100% of our fully qualifying trainees and most of our partly qualified trainees since we opened our first Centre in January 2005 and are continuing to do this even in the recession.

However, you are of course free to start your own plumbing business or join a company you find yourself at any time.

Do you supply all the tools and materials I need to use on the course?

All the tools you need to become a Master Plumber are provided for you but you will need some protective overalls and boots to conform to Health and Safety regulations. You will also need to purchase some plumbing books either direct from us or any good bookshop.

Are the courses suitable for females?

Yes. Many ladies pass our training with flying colours and go on to be successful in their new plumbing career.

What happens if I get stuck or struggle with the training?

Our classes only have 12 trainees at a time and our trainers are all friendly and experienced teachers. We have a self-study room in our centres where a trainer regularly visits to answer any questions and you can even book a one-to-one tutorial session with one of our trainers if you want. We're here to help and support you.

Why do I take BTSC exams as well as City & Guilds ones?

These qualifications are awarded, in part, for all the extra knowledge gained in important aspects of plumbing that are not required by City & Guilds. Our training is designed to make you one of the most highly trained and qualified new plumbers in the UK.

What facilities do you have for when I take a break in my training?

At Chessington we have our very own plumbers cafe offering snacks from rolls to a full English fry up and Manchester’s opens soon! Both centres have Break Area's with tables and chairs for you to relax or work from. There are vending machines with snacks and drinks, daily visits from caterers offering fresh produce, Sky TV and an computer for you to use to collect your emails or surf the internet from.

I live miles away from your Centre. Can you help me with accommodation?

Definitely! Because BTSC has Europe’s largest and most advanced plumbing training centres many of our people come from all over the UK to change their career with us. We have relationships with many local hotels and B & B’s. We even have a qualified trainer who offers accommodation and will give you a lift in his car to the London Centre whilst you are staying there. Call for details.