Hi Jim, I was made redundant a couple of years ago and with a family to support I had to fast track every thing. Whilst I was serving my notice I did a four day course at NETT over two weekends. (Varleys sent you a link and is spot on about the 'gaffer' there) After that I did a four week course at VIY in Leeds (
VIY Plumbing Training - the UK's premier training centre for domesic plumbing skills) and came away with enough City and Guilds and Water Regs to set myself up. Didn't know at the time which direction my career was going to take but tiling and plumbing go nicely hand in hand. Personally I leave plastering to the experts, you have to be doing it day in day out to be any good at it.
Good Luck