The job at the end does concern me as there seems to be a lot of negativity about these private training companies. In sounds legit. I'm happy take a lesser wage while I've got more experience.
There are a few parts to the training I'm doing. Quite a bit of self study and do assed modules marked by a tutor in a college. Then every so many modules you go into centres to do the 'practical' learning and start to build up a portfolio of work you've carried out and been assed on by a city and guilds assessor. Then you go onto various sites and work on the job along side qualified plumbers to get some real life experience (unpaid) but gives you chance to be assessed again and continue to get work for your portfolio. By the end of lv3 I'll be able to register as gas safe. Or so I'm lead to believe. I hope I wasn't given spin...
Believe me after reading a few reviews on private training companies I've looked at what the qualifications will actually allow me to do. Many of the job specs do state so many years experience which still concerns me but I'm happy to do a lesser paid job until I have that experience. Then move on... I'd eventually like to be self employed but wouldn't mind a bit of stability being an employee would give for a few years.
You are making a brave career move.Like a number of members in various posts on the Forum,I worry that your chosen training is the right way to go.You say there is some negativity re-courses like this,correct.Have you found any positivity?These courses are hard sell based with significant commission for the salesman.Double glazing ,kitchens are similar.As for Tommy Walsh I like him and Phil Spencer.They are both chosen for their links to houses/building and are on a good earner.
As you have only just started,NOW is the time to do further due diligence.From the course provider be clear exactly what you are guaranteed.Ask to meet a few ex-course members to find out how things went for them.Their reaction and co-operation will be interesting.
Contact local plumber/heating engineers from 1 man bands to companies and gauge their reactions.Find out what they want from an employee,whether they would look at offering an apprenticeship.
Talk to the local technical college dept.
When you have done this,you should have a clear picture based on your OWN findings.
From a legal point of view I am passing no judgement on train4skills.I simply feel you need to be totally happy with your choice.
I did the local tech.route 2/3 days a week the rest self employed,Some help/training with a mate who left before me.The rest over 8 years was learning on the job.Vast amounts learned from the Plumbers/Tilers Forum and it's free.I am just earning a viable wage which coincides with buying my first house.I needed tons of support from family and I was only responsible for myself.I thought hard before posting.My intention is to be helpful not negative.
