Beginner in Plumbing

[Jason]

Hi all,

First, let me introduce myself. My names Jason, I'm 16 and I'm from Stoke on Trent. I've been into Plumbing for a while, esp since I really like DIY jobs. I've been researching Plumbing, and seen what a successful job it can be, providing you are good at your job.

Now I've left school, I've got to find the *right* place for me. A few days back, I applied for a Plumbing course @ my local college. I know its a late application, however College is something I'm not really interested in, too similar to school for my liking. I was also considering going into the Royal Navy, and that still may happen, I just want to learn a trade first.

I've always wanted an Apprenticeship with a *big* company. Now, I was wondering, could anyone point me in the right direction of some *big* companies in or near the Stoke area? Contact numbers would be a great plus. I don't plan staying in Stoke (I have lived here for 16 years already), just my 'home' where I can start my Plumbing career. One day, I really hope I can be running my own Plumbing Business, however training to become a Plumber is my main priority atm.

Thanks in advanced.

Kind Regards,
Jason

 

[ProffesorPlumb]

Jason, the best bet for you is to go to your local college and get on an apprenticeship. It won't cost you a penny and you will maybe get paid for it. Take advantage of your age and whats available for you. Colleges normally jump at the chance to take young people on, like yourself - as they get more funding from the government for you. It's all part of the 14-19 curriculum, where billions of pounds are pumped into it. The college may also sort out the apprenticeship placement too.

This really is the best route for you and 'bite the bullet' if you think it is like school - you will be suprised at how much it isn't

 

[Jason]

Yeah, I applied for college a few days back. Very late application I know, do you think I will still have a chance of getting in?

Would you happen to know any *good* companies within or near the Stoke area where I could apply for an apprenticeship?

 

[NEWBIE]

Jason,

You are at the perfect age to get into plumbing through an Apprenticeship. If you are having trouble getting into a college then visit Apprenticeships This is the government website. My brother was in the same position as you and he contacted these guys and told them he could not get into college. They pulled some strings (cos they can) and he was given a place at the local college.

Hope this was useful. God I wish I was your age. lol

Newbie

 

[Lee_H20]

alrite jason best advice is go for it u might even get ema (thats like £30a week for attendin)
its nothing like school. more laid back get more dirty theres no teacher constatly up ure bum i know ths because i did it. i thort what u where at first but one u get stuck in ull be happy doin the theory cos it is intresting an it gets youmore 'clued up' in the practical part of the job

honestly m8 get it while you can

 

[Jason]

I was at college for two years, from year 10 so I have a pretty good idea what college is like. I do agree tho', its not that bad.

NEWBIE, thanks for the link to the site. I will sure contact them if I have any problems.

How long does it take to receive a reply from the college after sending off an application form? Sent it a few days back. And how do they contact you? (phone, letter, ect.)

Thanks.

-- Jason

 

[Jason]

Still haven't received a reply from the college... anyone know how long it usually is & how do they contact you?

Another question I have: I want to one day start a businesses(s). I've been thinking about taking the business course at college, however, would I be able to take it in conjunction with the Plumbing course? Or would I have to just take the business course?

Many thanks,
Jason

 

[Jason]

Anyone? I'm getting a little worried now...as it will soon be September!

 

[razal]

Concentrate on the Plumbing side, try to get some experience by working with a firm / one man band, even if only one day a week unpaid. The business side is unimportant at this moment in time.
I am surprised nobody can give this sort of advice at College any more, only interested in getting bums on seats for courses that are irrelevent it seems.
Dont wait for them to contact you, time to grow up and do your own chasing Jason, good luck.

 

[Jason]

Well, received my letter today. They say they can't fit me on the Plumbing course. Trying to get me into painting & decorating or something similar, but its not what I want -- all they are interested in is filling spaces. I'm really annoyed right now, and they wonder why people go on benefits?

NEWBIE, where's the contact page for this site: Apprenticeships

I really want to do the Plumbing course, there's not anything else that interests me.

Thanks for your time.

Kind Regards,
Jason

 

[anz]

Want to become an apprentice? - Apprentices who earn while they learn - Apprenticeships

From the above page click on 'What's Next' at the side to fill in a contact form.

 

[Jason]

Thanks!

On the letter it said: Thank you for applying for a place on a 'full' plumbing course at Stoke-on-Trent college. However, it's an apprenticeship I'm after, not a full course -- so maybe they'll be able to fit me on for an Apprenticeship?

-- Jason

 

[anz]

Have you taken an entry test at the college yet, if you haven't they won't consider you for one until you do. If you don't hear anything in the next few weeks you should give them a ring.
Most Colleges have a deadline for applications in January and they start testing people in Spring. Most colleges also fill up on their plumbing courses really quickly and they are often over subscribed especially for the 16-19's. It's not looking good for you but I won't give up just yet.