Plumbing Diploma or Plumbing NVQ, what’s right for your team?

As a boss or business owner, it’s only natural that you want to give your team the tools and training they need to perform to the best of their abilities. 

A big part of this is having a clear understanding of the exact training and qualifications your workforce actually needs to complete their roles and responsibilities properly, both in terms of quality and safety. 

In construction and plumbing specifically, there are lots of rules and regulations to consider when training your team, so it’s vital you know exactly what your workforce can and cannot do. 

With that said, one area which often confuses people in this sector is understanding the difference between a Level 2 Plumbing Diploma and a Level 2 Plumbing NVQ. Below, we’ll go into detail about what separates the two and the key things to keep in mind about both. 

What is the difference between a plumbing diploma and a plumbing NVQ?

Level 2 Plumbing Diploma (6035-02)

A Level 2 Plumbing Diploma is a package of training designed to build solid foundational plumbing knowledge and practical skills, making it ideal for newcomers, career-changers and those looking to build on basic DIY plumbing skills. Upon successful completion, an individual should be ready to begin seeking domestic plumbing work. 

Level 2 Plumbing NVQ (6189)

The Level 2 Plumbing NVQ is an assessment rather than a training package, aimed at confirming occupational competence in a real working environment. 

This is an industry-standard qualification gained through a workplace assessment and is therefore aimed at experienced plumbers. Gaining an NVQ can be of huge benefit to your team, as not only does it demonstrate a high level of skill, but it is also a requirement for any plumber needing to obtain a CSCS card to work on-site. 

In the simplest of terms, a Level 2 Plumbing diploma is a comprehensive training course that combines both practical and theoretical learning. This makes it a common first step for trainee plumbers.

The Level 2 NVQ is a formal, industry-recognised qualification gained through a practical, work-based assessment of these skills, making it a common progression pathway or an effective method for experienced plumbers to formally prove their skills. 

What qualifications and training do my plumbers need?

This will depend on a variety of factors, including prior experience, seniority and the type of work your team is expected to carry out. 

Plumbers who hold a Level 2 Diploma can tackle a range of essential domestic tasks like installing hot/cold water systems and radiators, drain and sanitation maintenance, cutting and shaping pipework, and responding to routine repair call-outs.  

With a Level 2 Plumbing NVQ, your team will be able to do all of the above, but will also have the option of gaining a CSCS card, which is a standard requirement for working on site. This can significantly boost the scope of projects your business is able to take on.

What are the benefits of group plumbing training? 

Group/corporate plumbing training is an efficient and reliable way to ensure your entire team is trained up to the latest industry standards. This doesn’t just protect your reputation as a business, but also expands the range of work your team is qualified to undertake. 

When you choose an experienced and accredited training provider like Able Skills, your team will complete their learning in purpose-built plumbing facilities, under the guidance of genuine, time-served professionals. For teams who need to travel to access our courses and facilities, we also offer affordable accommodation situated right by the centre. 

Whether you’re looking to train a new group of plumbing recruits with a Level 2 Diploma, or you’d like one of our qualified NVQ assessors to come and visit your team on-site to establish their competence, we have a range of plumbing packages that can be tailored to your business’s needs. 

Able Skills’ corporate training packages run at various start dates throughout the year, but we’re always happy to discuss a bespoke package to suit you. Find out more here.