Plumbing Apprenticeship 4th year (Scotland)

[russ026]

I have just finished my 3rd year of my Plumbing Apprenticeship.

I have received my Modern Apprenticeship Completion Certificate for "Mechanical Engineering Services Plumbing"

and my Scottish Vocational Qualification Level 3 in "Mechanical Engineering Services: Domestic Plumbing" from the SQA / Jib.

I am confused about what the 4th year of the apprenticeship involves. My college has told me as far as they are concerned I have completed my apprenticeship and the 4th year is just your first year as a full-time plumber. My employer is also not sure what the 4th year is (it is the first time he has had apprentices).

What happens in the 4th year?
Do I need to do anything? Or contact anyone?
Do I need to collect any documents?

Thank you for your help.

 

[anz]

Your college is right, you have finished your apprenticeship as far as they are concerned.

I think a few years ago, it would have took you four years to complete what you have, hence where the four year apprenticeships came from.

These days some employers use the fourth year, just to see how you get on, monitor your progress etc. Or cheap labour?

British Gas apprenticeships last less than two years.

It is up to your employer if he wants to keep you on as an apprentice for another year or give you more responsibility and take you on as a Plumber.

 

[russ026]

They did say something about applying for a card after 4 years, but Im not sure what that is.

 

[GQuigley67]

I never got my grading card until I was signed off my 4 year apprenticeship

 

[Noxer]

after 4 years your ready to get a van and do your own jobs lol.

 

[mcniven]

make your boss money!