Electrical Installation with Plumbing - Foundation in Construction and the Built Environment

L2 Level 2
Full Time
2 September 2024 — 20 June 2025
City Centre Campus, Cardiff
This course is available at other locations or at different start dates/levels.

About this course

The Foundation in Construction and the Built Environment provides a broad introduction to construction and the built environment. It has been developed for individuals working in or intending to work, in the sectors.

It is aimed at school leavers or learners in work-based learning, further education, and school 6th Forms. This qualification will enable learners to go on to study a range of other Construction and Building Services Engineering (Plumbing and Heating / Electrical Installation / Refrigeration and Tiling) courses relevant to their trade interest area. It may be is taken either as a full-time programme of learning that is usually delivered over one year, or as a part-time programme of learning as part of an apprenticeship framework.

The course delivery will be equally focused on both trades.

What you will study

All learners will complete core units which supports learners to develop an introductory knowledge and understanding of:

  • an introduction to the construction and built environment sectors
  • the built environment life cycle, the job roles within it, and the dependencies between people performing those roles
  • how to promote and sustain health and safety for oneself and others; and
  • employability skills relevant to future work.

In addition to these ‘core’ units, learners will study two trade pathways and spend time learning skills which will include planning, performing, and evaluating common tasks.

Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment: The purpose of this unit is for learners to learn and undertake fundamental electrical work. Learners will have the opportunity to plan, perform and evaluate their work whilst utilising a range of materials, methods and techniques for basic electrical circuits including 1-way lighting circuits and radial circuits.

Plumbing and Domestic Heating: The purpose of this unit is for learners to explore the cold, hot and heating systems within a domestic property and the basic pipework competences that underpin work on these systems. Learners will have the opportunity to plan and create their own pipework installation using a variety of materials, jointing methods and bending techniques.

You will study in our dedicated construction centres and facilities. These include classrooms for theory and huge trade-specific workshops where you develop your practical skills each week using industry standard tools and equipment.


Your course assessment comprises of set assignments that are used to gauge your skills development and end of year assessment, including practical skills tests, an online exam, and planning, carrying out and reviewing of a practical assignment with a one to one assessed discussion.

Entry requirements

• Students must be at least 16 years old

• New students will have an interview/placement test before starting their course to ensure that they are placed at the correct level

• Essential to hold a Level 1 Diploma in Construction Skills or at least two year’s relevant experience in the trade, or 4 GCSEs grades A* to C to including Maths.

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

Course code

Qualification

Career prospects & further study

9.1%

According to Lightcast 2022 data, the construction sector is due to grow by 9.1% in the Cardiff Capital Region between 2022-2026, with an average wage over £30,000 per year.

Progression onto the Level 2 Progression course if the Foundation course is successfully completed and passed, and attendance is above 90%.

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What our students say
Plumbing learner

I am really enjoying learning my trade here at Cardiff and Vale College. The teachers and very knowledgeable and supportive. I’m really looking forward to getting qualified and starting my own business.

Ibraheem Fergani
Current Level 3 Plumbing and Tiling student