Training advise! OLCI and BTSC

[smoakes1]

Hi
I'm currently in the process of deciding the best way to properly qualified as a plumber to make the transition from office job to working for myself.
I've had a fair amount of experience renovating several properties, replacing rads, pipework etc
I've been looking at several companies mainly OCLI and BTSC for training on evenings, weekends and at home. To get qualified C&G 6129 and on to my NVQ level 2.
Just wanted to know if anyone had any advice for me or experiences of these companies?
Thanks in advance!

 

[adrianfs1]

did all my training with olci, brilliant, no rush, very informative, great tutors, if u do not understand ask and u will get the help u need, can not say the same for their admin in london though.

 

[FPCPlumb]

Can only give feedback on olci. Former student, did my 6129 and nvq2 in London with them. Sounds like it could fit you quite well, I stayed in my old job and did the training in my spare time but sometimes had to take a few days off work too, took about 10 months. good teachers and centre was well kitted out, so cant ask much more.

 

[Andrew Faulkner]

hi there just thinkiing of doing city & guilds 6129 with olci cardiff just wondering if anybody has done it with cardiff branch and how easy was it for you to do the nvq2 with them .
any answers would be welcome

 

[aquad]

I would certainly recommend olci, and the London branch at that. There is a heavy emphasis on theory (for getting through the assessments), but I think this is all to the good in the end. On the practical, I can say that the instructors are first-rate, and the tasks and exercises very helpful. The program is well organized yet expensive. Well worth it, however.

 

[cr0ft]

Save your £5k and buy a good plumbing book and some basic plumbing tools. There is nothing you will learn on this course that you can't teach yourself. An NVQ 2 is worth very little to employers, especially in the current climate. I think you will be lucky to find a job - most employers do not rate these courses.

Assuming you are a mature learner, your best bet by far is to do the above and use the £5k to buy your own van and tools. Start up yourself by taking on small jobs your are comfortable with. Top tip - turn down anything you aren't or pass it onto another local plumber and work with them for the experience.

Paying out £5k to train with OLCI was the biggest mistake and waste of money I made starting my own plumbing business.