Entry requirements
- Two National 5s, preferably including Maths and a technical subject.
Why take this course?
This hands-on course develops the essential practical skills and technical understanding that employers in the building services industry value.
You’ll build a solid foundation in key areas such as plumbing installation, hot and cold water systems and heating and ventilation principles, as well as health and safety.
As this is a Pre-Apprenticeship programme, you will also receive expert tuition to support your progression into a Modern Apprenticeship.
By the end of the course, you’ll feel ready to take your next step – whether that’s employment, an apprenticeship, or further study.
What you will experience
You will spend three days a week at our Aberdeen Altens Campus.
Topics covered include:
- Health and Safety in Building Services Engineering
- Energy and the Environment
- Basic Plumbing Installation Operations
- Introduction to Plumbing Services and Skills
- Introduction to Hot and Cold Water Systems
- Basic Heating and Ventilation Principles
- Basic Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Principles
- Systems, Roles, Responsibilities and Procedures
- Install and Connect Domestic Plumbing Appliances
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying to this course.
What you will get
Qualification Scotland units in Plumbing at SCQF Level 5.
What you will need
PPE including boilersuit, safety boots/shoes and safety glasses.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language, please view the specific English language requirements for this course.
How do I pay for this course?
If you are studying a full-time non-advanced course (below HNC level), you may be entitled to funding.
How to apply to NESCol
You can apply for a full-time course online or using a paper form.
Open Days
Open Days are a great way to find out more about this course and what it’s like to study at NESCol. You will see facilities, meet lecturers and get a feel for life as a student.
Our next Open Day will take place this winter.
Do you need extra support?
NESCol can provide extra support to students who have additional support needs, including:
- learning difficulties or disabilities
- physical or sensory disabilities
- mental health and wellbeing concerns
- are care experienced or young carers
How do I cover the cost of living?
You may be eligible for additional funding to support the cost of living, including travel costs, cost of materials, and childcare.
Find out more about the types of funding and whether you are eligible here
College transport to Altens
The College runs a bus to our Altens Campus to and from Aberdeen City Centre (excluding holiday periods).
Energy Transition Skills
This course supports skills in energy transition.
Our expert teams ensure students leave College equipped with the knowledge, technical capability and experience that are vital in an exciting new era.
Opportunities
Whether you wish to progress in your studies or enter the world of work, North East Scotland College has excellent progression opportunities, with links to several universities across Scotland and strong relationships with industry employers.
Education at NESCol
On successful completion of this course, you can progress to the following courses at North East Scotland College:
Student Stories
Jorja Ross
Construction
Construction Crafts
“I’m a practical person and after doing the construction course while I was still at school, I knew I wanted to get started in the industry. I’m enjoying learning and the lecturers are great, they’re helpful, friendly, and really encourage me.”
Read more about Jorja's story
Amber Kordakis
Construction
Carpentry & Joinery Apprenticeship
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at College. The facilities are excellent and it’s good to be able to use machinery and equipment that we don’t have access to onsite. The lecturers are great and because they’ve all come from industry they have a huge pool of knowledge. It’s really helpful to be able to talk through the work I’m doing in my day-to-day job with them. “
Read more about Amber's story
Katie Cruickshank
Construction
Carpentry and Joinery (SVQ Level 3), SCQF Level 6
“I like the fact that with an apprenticeship you are learning from those around you. The best thing for me is working with these experienced joiners and picking up hints and tips. In my field everyone has their own way of doing things – but they get the same result.”
Read more about Katie's story
Joanna Nicholson
Construction
Joinery SCQF Level 5
“I’ve been so surprised by the meditative qualities of working with wood and it’s such an antidote to digital life.”
Read more about Joanna's story
Jemma Sykes
Construction
Construction Crafts &
HNC Built Environment
“One of the best things about the course was having the opportunity to gain experience in the different construction trades and broaden my knowledge of the industry as a whole. The course gave me the experience and knowledge I needed to stand out amongst the other applicants for an apprenticeship.”
Read more about Jemma's story
Brandon Russell
Construction
Construction Crafts (SCQF Level 5)
“I came to NESCol when I left school to study on the Construction Crafts (SCQF Level 5) course, which lets you experience the different construction trades.”
Read more about Brandon's story
Keiran Laing
Construction
Carpentry & Joinery Apprenticeship
“Every day is different so there is a good variety.”
Read more about Keiran's story
Heidi Ward
Construction
Painting & Decorating Apprenticeship
“To any other girls who are thinking of a career in construction: stick with it! NESCol will give you skills for a lifelong career as well as the opportunity to explore creatively.”
Read more about Heidi's story
Applications
North East Scotland College offers hundreds of courses each year, apply for one now.
Apply now
You can apply for a place on this course by completing an online application form, which you can access using the ‘Apply Online’ button. Once submitted, this will be processed by our Admissions team.
Aberdeen Altens Campus
StartsAug 2026
Course CodeC01503
Alternatively, you can complete a paper application and send it to us.
If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to complete an enrolment form. In completing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
Similar courses for you
Here are some courses you may also be interested in.
