Apprenticeships
The Industry
The world of building services engineering offers a range of varied and challenging careers in a number of working environments and locations, providing endless opportunities to progress and develop. The standards for apprenticeships has increased over the last few years, and now applicants must possess a minimum of 4 GCSE's at Grade C or above including English, Maths, and a Science.
Mechanical & Plumbing services involve activities ranging from installing, servicing and maintaining quality water supplies, sanitation, and heating systems inside buildings to the installations of systems and supplies externally to buildings, for example, underground drainage pipework.
There is a range of craft opportunities available in the heating and ventilating industry too, including the installation, servicing and maintenance of heating and ventilation systems in both domestic and industrial/commercial buildings. Gas fitters install, service and maintain a range of heating systems and gas appliances including cookers, fires and water heaters in all types of buildings from houses to larger public buildings.
While much of the work in these industries will involve the practical application of technical and craft skills on-site, some of the jobs are office based concentrating, perhaps, on the design and costing of projects. And for the future, the craftsperson's knowledge and experience can lead to supervisory and management roles.
Qualifying to be an apprentice
Most advanced apprentices join the industry at the age of 16 or 17 and train for approximately four years. However, young people up to the age of 25 can apply, but there is limited provision over the age of 19 due to Government funding restrictions. In addition to possessing the minimum 4 GCSEs or equivalent (at grade C or better in Maths, English and a Science), all apprentices must also pass a selection test.
Entry to an apprenticeship in the industry is open to everybody, there is no restriction in respect of sex or ethnic origin. Consideration will also be given to all applications received from people with disabilities and with health problems. However, certain physical disabilities could be a problem. Colour blindness prevents entry to the building services engineering industry and a good head for heights is necessary. It should also be noted that the work can be strenuous and dirty, may require long hours and may entail travelling and staying away from home.
Please send your CV marked for the attention of Paul Millington to:
jswright@jswright.co.uk
