My Work Placement Success: Chloe, Level 3 Plumbing

Level 3 Plumbing learner, Chloe, has secured an apprenticeship after developing her industry skills during a work experience placement in London. 

We caught up with Chloe during a departmental project, to talk about her time at College, what she learned on placement, and how the experience has shaped a future career in plumbing. 

What do you enjoy about studying Plumbing at College? 

“I like how we’re trusted to do our own thing when it comes to projects. The lecturers teach you what you’re doing and then you’re tested to follow their instructions.  

“I can go at my own pace and there’s no pressure to rush through tasks, which means over time you get more and more confident.” 

What was your work experience like? 

“As I did my work experience on a building site in Camden, I had to get my CSCS card, which means I’m a step closer to entering the industry.  

“Working in Camden was really good. The company works on a lot of new hotel projects, so they do all the plumbing for them. I learnt loads including some things we haven’t covered in College yet.  

“We looked at underfloor heating, boiler systems and gas systems. We had to plumb in water cylinders and work with water tanks.” 

What was it like to work with plumbers already in the industry? 

“The team were great and treated me like I worked there, not like a student. They pushed me out of my comfort zone which I was so grateful for.  

“If I couldn’t do something, they would say “Yes, you are, you’re a plumber.” I really enjoyed learning how siphons work, how to connect it and take it off.” 
 

How does combining work placement with studying at College set you up for the future? 

“Coming back to College after my placement definitely helped me with what I learned. The placement was more practical and less theory, but when I came back, the theory made sense because I could link it to what I’d done.  

“As an example, when it came to looking at why we had to change types of pipes, it all slotted into place.”  

How does it feel to be offered an apprenticeship? 

“My work experience has been my favourite part about College. I was so pleased when they offered me an apprenticeship.  

“The paperwork should go through by the time I finish the course, and then I can start straight away.   

“Coming to College was the right choice. I’ve learned an awful lot in the classroom and in the workshops, which made the placement easier, and I obviously impressed them enough to get the offer.  

“I’m so happy I came to EKC Dover College, and I can see a long career in Plumbing.” 

Thanks to Chloe for sharing her experiences. It’s great to see how College has enabled her to flourish in her course and in work placement. If her experience has inspired you, consider studying our Plumbing courses. 

You can also learn more about working with EKC Dover College as a business by contacting us or clicking here to learn more.