Helping address the need to attract many more apprentices into this growing field, Vaillant is investing in supporting 10 full time, employed apprentices throughout their 3-year course.
Partnering with Derby College, where the students will be based, Vaillant has ensured that, for the first time, apprentices are able to take advantage of training focussed on low carbon technology. Previous sector-specific apprenticeships have focused on traditional gas heating systems, with students required to complete additional learning to install equipment such as heat pumps.
The new apprentices will eventually graduate as Level 3 Low Carbon Heating Technicians having covered the latest heat pump and other low carbon technology.
Along with a broader view of working in the heating industry and how to conduct themselves in customers’ homes, to enable them to deliver an excellent customer experience, the course also includes additional qualifications and skills, such as plumbing, bricklaying, plastering, electrics and customer service, to ensure they are fully equipped for every job.
In addition, they will benefit from experience gained from working across the Vaillant business thanks to the on-the-job training with qualified heating engineers built into their second and third years.
Encouraging signs of increased demand
The 10 successful applicants for this first intake were selected from more than 60 candidates from the Derbyshire and East Midlands area with each applicant having impressed during interviews and assessment days held at the college and at Vaillant’s UK headquarters in Belper, Derbyshire. Although the first cohort includes younger installers, aged 16-19, the new LCHTA is open to those of all ages.
Mark Wilkins, Training and Technologies Director at Vaillant comments: “Investing in young people and encouraging new entrants to the industry is paramount for the future of low carbon technologies. I was delighted to see such a huge interest in the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship, and we have been overwhelmed with the amount of passion and drive that all applicants displayed.
“It is also encouraging to see a diverse group of applicants – we are seeing a shift in the industry, historically being male dominated, so it is exciting to be part of these changes, building the future workforce”.
Carol Dixon, Director of Employer Partnerships at Derby College Group, added: “We are thrilled to be working with Vaillant to roll out the first Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship at Derby College Group. A great deal of work has gone into getting the course ready for this first cohort and we are delighted to be able to set these apprentices well on the way to a fulfilling career.”
The course is recognised by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) and was developed by MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) with support from employers across the low carbon heating sector including MCS certified contractors. It also forms part of the Green Apprenticeships holding the Kings Standard, launched to celebrate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.
Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS said: “I’m delighted to see the enthusiasm for our Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship and that Vaillant has worked closely with their local college to enable access onto the course.”
