Warmstart: Apprenticeships Guide

As Scotland works towards net zero, there is increasing demand for skilled workers who can install and maintain modern heating systems, renewable technologies, energy efficient electrical systems and smart controls.

Supplier fixes a gas pipe

 

 

Whether you’re interested in plumbing, heating, or electrical work, this guide explains more about how apprenticeships can help you get into the career you want.

Why choose a net zero career?

  • In-demand skills – there’s no shortage of work in these sectors
  • Earn while you learn through an apprenticeship
  • Hands-on work and variety; every day offers new opportunities
  • Career growth from apprentice to qualified tradesperson, supervisor or business owner
  • Opportunities to specialise in growing areas such as heat pump installation, smart home systems and energy efficiency
  • Play a key role in helping Scotland reduce carbon emissions and create more sustainable homes
  • Opportunities to work across Scotland and beyond

Apprenticeships explained

An apprenticeship lets you learn on the job while earning a wage and studying towards recognised qualifications

  • Get paid from day one
  • Gain industry-recognised qualifications (SVQ/NVQ)
  • Develop practical skills in plumbing, heating engineering or electrical installation from experienced tradespeople
  • Most apprenticeships last around four years

Career opportunities

Popular career pathways include:

  • Plumbing and Heating at SCQF Level 7
  • Electrical Installation at SCQF Level 7
  • Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration at SCQF Level 6
  • Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration at SCQF Level 7

These careers are essential to Scotland’s future workforce and offer excellent opportunities for employment, further training and career development.

Start here: speak to your guidance teacher and visit apprenticeships.scot

Building your CV

Your CV is really important and is often the first impression you make on an employer before you’ve met them in person. Here are some things to remember when preparing your CV:

  • Keep it to one page
  • Highlight subjects such as Mathematics, Engineering Science, Practical Craft Skills, or Design and Technology, although this is not essential
  • Mention your interest in plumbing, heating, electrical work, renewable technologies or energy efficiency
  • Add any work experience, volunteering or practical projects
  • Use a clear layout and check spelling and grammar

Interview skills

Interviews aren’t as scary as you might think – it’s the best way for an employer to find out if you’re a good fit for their business. Here are some tips to make your interview go smoothly:

  • Arrive on time and dress neatly
  • Research the company, be prepared to answer questions and prepare a question to ask them. Practice answers to questions such as “Why do you want to work in the sector you have chosen?”

Be polite, show enthusiasm and demonstrate a positive attitude – employers value reliability and willingness to learn.

Workplace code of conduct

There are some important guidelines that you should always follow to ensure you have a safe and successful experience:

  • Safety first – always follow site rules and wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Respect others – work as part of a team and communicate effectively
  • Mobile phones – use only during breaks and never when operating tools, equipment or machinery
  • Positive attitude – be willing to learn, ask questions and help
  • Take responsibility for your work and follow instructions
  • Be on time and reliable – employers value good attendance and timekeeping

Next steps and contacts

Here are a few suggestions to help you move forward with your journey:

  • Try a work experience placement
  • Attend career events, employers’ presentations and industry open days
  • Explore your local colleges’ pre-apprenticeship access courses
  • Speak to your guidance teacher or careers advisor
  • Research apprentice opportunities

 

Useful links:

Plumbing and heating apprenticeships

Plumbing and heating apprenticeships teach you how to install, maintain and repair water, heating and low-carbon heating systems. You’ll learn practical skills while gaining industry-recognised qualifications.

Top tips

  1. Explore plumbing career paths: SNIPEF
  2. Create a strong CV that highlights both technical subjects and soft skills
  3. Apply for a work placement with a local plumbing or heating company – work placements can generally be from one day to two weeks
  4. Sign up for a full-time college plumbing or building services course before starting a modern apprenticeship (example: NPA Pre-Apprenticeship to Plumbing Level 5 | West Lothian College)
  5. Many colleges across Scotland offer pre-apprenticeship courses. They generally start in January or August, and spaces can be limited, so book a place as soon as possible
  6. Plumbing apprentices’ additional information: org/apprenticeships/start-an-apprenticeship

 

Electrical apprenticeships

Electrical apprenticeships involve installing, testing and maintaining electrical systems safely and efficiently. Electricians play a key role in supporting renewable energy systems, smart technologies and Scotland’s transition to net zero.

Top tips

  1. Explore electrical career paths: sectt.org.uk/become-an-apprentice-or-trainee
  2. Apply for the SECTT pre-employment assessment: sectt.org.uk/resources/apply-for-an-apprenticeship
  3. Prepare for SECTT aptitude tests: sectt.org.uk
  4. Create a strong CV that highlights both technical subjects and soft skills
  5. Apply for a work placement with a local electrical company. Work placements generally can be from one day to two weeks
  6. Sign up for a college full-time electrical course before starting a modern apprenticeship (example: Pre-Apprenticeship Electrical Installation | West College Scotland)
  7. Many colleges across Scotland offer similar pre-apprenticeship courses. They generally start in January or August, and space can be limited, so book a place as soon as possible
  8. Apprentice and adult training scheme brochure: sjiborg.uk/apprentices-and-adult-trainees