Level 3 Diploma in Plumbing

Applications Open - Monday 2 November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply - Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide.

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Ashford College

Application Limits - You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

The Level 3 Diploma in Plumbing is designed for students who want to take their skills to the next level and move closer to a career in the plumbing and heating industry. Building on what you’ve learned at Level 2, this course focuses on more advanced systems, design, and real-life industry practices. You’ll develop both your technical knowledge and practical skills, working on realistic projects that reflect what plumbers do on the job. By the end of the course, you’ll be confident working with complex plumbing systems and ready to take the next step into employment or an apprenticeship.

You will learn the enhanced skills needed to progress in the field of domestic plumbing and heating. Our course will equip you with the core units needed when entering employment. Topics you will cover include: • Health and safety in the workplace - Understand how to work safely on-site, follow industry regulations, and reduce risks to yourself and others when working with tools, systems, and materials. • Working safely and effectively - Develop professional working practices, including planning tasks, using the correct tools and equipment, and completing jobs efficiently to industry standards. • Principles of environmental technology systems - Explore modern, energy-efficient technologies such as renewable heating systems and how plumbing plays a role in reducing environmental impact. • Cold water system planning and design - Learn how to design and plan cold water systems for domestic properties, including pipework layouts, pressure requirements, and system performance. • Hot water system planning and design - Gain an understanding of different hot water systems, how they operate, and how to design systems that meet customer needs and safety standards. • Domestic central heating systems planning and design - Build knowledge of central heating systems, including components, controls, and how to design efficient heating solutions for homes. Throughout the course, you will learn a wide variety of skills and techniques in our well-equipped workshops. You will also have the opportunity to take part in national skills competitions such as KFE4Skills and work on community projects around Ashford, helping you build confidence, experience, and a strong portfolio of work.

Assessment will be through completing a portfolio of work, practical observations, written work and online tests.

Equivalent of 4 grade 4s including English and maths at 4 (or pass at level 2 where you will have developed a context of maths in the same/related subject).

On successful completion you could move onto a Level 3 course or Apprenticeship or seek employment within the industry (you may need to obtain a CSCS Card and a Water Regulations certificate).