Our Student Success series gives us the chance to shout about all the incredible things our students have gone on to achieve after or during their studies. 

Whether it’s completing a long-term DIY project, taking those first steps towards a career in trade or expanding skill sets with specialist training, we put the same level of care and commitment into the training we offer, and we’re always keen to hear how participants have gone on to use their new skills. 

Next up, we chatted with Hannah, who is currently working in the industry for Rietfield Heating Solutions alongside a qualified gas engineer while completing her City & Guilds Level 2 Plumbing Diploma on a home-study basis with Able Skills. 

What is your current occupation?

“I currently work alongside a gas engineer and before that I worked as a plumber's mate for a company that primarily carried out installation work on construction sites.”

Can you describe your typical working day?

“There's no such thing as a typical day really - every day, week and month are so varied! That's what I really like about the job though. There are challenges that you don't expect and you're always learning - it never gets boring.”

What do you enjoy most about your current role?

“That it's so varied and that you never stop learning! It's not your typical 9-5 where you see the same people and do the same mundane task every day.”

Which course(s) did you complete with Able Skills? 

“Plumbing Level 2 – currently doing this course.

My next plan is to look at doing my gas training and plumbing NVQ, it feels like a pretty natural next step for me after doing the plumbing course and working for the company that I do”

How big a part did your training period play in getting you where you are today?

“It's really helped me to refine any skills learned working on site and to learn any new skills that I'm not able to in my day-to-day.”

If you could give three pieces of advice to a student currently training for your profession, what would they be?

“1. Make the most of it!

“2. Use the time you have in the centre wisely to ask your tutor any questions that you have and what your next steps to progress should be - they're there to help and guide you. Also, who better to hear from than someone who's been in your position?

“3. Remember you're learning, you're not always going to get everything right straight away. You're not there to impress anyone, you're there to learn and get ready to go into the real world. Better to make a mistake in the centre so you don’t on-site or in someone's home.”

Home Study Level 2 Plumbing Course

The Home Study Level 2 Plumbing Course allows participants to complete all the theory learning of a Level 2 Plumbing qualification at home, at their own pace.

Once the theory learning is complete, we can arrange a suitable time for the student to attend the training centre to complete the necessary exams, alongside any required practical training and assessments. 

Interested in pursuing a career in plumbing? Able Skills offers a range of expert-led courses to suit all experiences, many of which can be completed on a part-time, flexible schedule that suits you. 

To find the course that’s perfect for you, we recommend popping into our training centre for a chat - there’s no need to make an appointment. If you can’t make it in, feel free to give us a call on 01322 280 202 or request a brochure online.