Advise on everything starting out needed.

[RP23]

Hi All,

I’ve joined the forum in hope of some good advice.


I’m 29yrs old and have been offered a chance to in work and help run a family members heating & Plumbing business. I thought long and hard and am very excited about doing a practical hand’s on roll as I’ve been office based for the last 10yrs. I know this is the right choice for me and a great opportunity.


I will need to become fully qualified and register with Gas Safe and learn on the job as you all are aware. What levels or training should I be looking into and what are the time frames? Best courses? What is the best route? Is there funding available? Is there a body who can advise me of what’s best to do in my situation?


I’m really sorry if all of this is covered elsewhere on the site but I have very limited access to the internet. Any link to threads or website would be great as well as any advice.


Many Thank
RP23

 

[CES]

Best advice I can give is to stay away from the Fast track training mobs. No amount of money paid to a training facility can substitute hands on experience. There are courses for adult apprenticeships (which you're family's business may be able to set up for you). I think as far as gas goes you will be whats known as a Category 3 trainee ( a new entrant to the industry).Before they let you train for your ACS you need to satisfy the training provider of your suitablity to work with gas (usually in the form of a Utilisation course). You will need a substantial portfolio of gas work depending on the assessments you are taking, e.g. Cookers, Fires etc.
Speak to the local colleges, they are usually helpful. Or look in the back of the Installer magazine, thats usually stacked out with training providers who will be more up to date than myself.
Good luck
PS This will take a few years to get yourself up to speed and qualified,but even once you think you're there it doesn't stop, we are still all learning new things everyday