Custom Heat South West is highlighting the opportunities available in plumbing and gas engineering. With GCSE results day approaching, Custom Heat said it wants to reassure students about their future options.
The company stated that these trades offer valuable skills for life and excellent prospects for young people, regardless of their exam results.
James Cane, business development manager at Custom Heat, said: “We want to reassure students that if their exams haven’t gone quite as they hoped, or if they’re unsure about their next steps, apprenticeships in trades like plumbing and gas engineering can set them up for life. These skills are always in demand, and they offer a stable and fulfilling career path.
“It’s important to understand that your GCSE or A-level results don’t define your future outcomes. There are other routes available, and apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity to earn while you learn, avoiding the potential debt associated with university.”
The company currently has a 19-year-old apprentice from Okehampton who is close to becoming fully qualified and has been with the firm for the past three years.
Over this time, Ryan Wills has been gaining experience across Devon and Cornwall and qualifications since leaving full time education.
Ryan added: “When I finished school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. I didn’t really like sitting in a classroom all the time, so sixth form or university didn’t appeal to me. I did a week of work experience with a plumber and found it interesting. It’s a good trade to get into.”
Ryan has passed his Level 2 and 3 NVQ exams and is currently working towards his gas engineering qualifications. He expects to complete his final assessment in the coming months.
He continued: “I would definitely tell people to give it a go. At the start, it might seem like you’re getting nowhere, but it does start improving. You need patience with the learning process. Work hard, and you’ll see the progress.”
James said: “As our business expands in the South West, there’s always room for apprentices. We are always looking for motivated individuals who are eager to learn and grow within the trade.”
The demand for skilled tradespeople continues to grow across the UK. Last year the UK Trade Skills Index 2023 report projected demand for plumbers and heating engineers will soar as vacancies reach an all-time high across the sector. It warned a staggering 70,000 new plumbers alone will be needed by 2032.
The report also highlighted that the UK needs a million new trade recruits over the next decade to keep pace with demand, with nearly a quarter of a million of those requiring apprenticeship training to plug the growing skills gap.