Distance learning....Does it work ?

[Cristo]

Hi

I'm about to subscribe to undertake training to become a plumber. Has anyone had experience of this,good or bad ? Do you know anyone who has used one of the career training firms in the UK.? These programmes are aimed at the middle aged type of person who needs a change of direction in life.

[Hermia]

Is there not a college near you that does a part time course? I imagine it must be hard doing the practical elements at home without a tutor to ask for advice. They did plumbing at the college I went to and it seemed to involve a lot of supervision and group work. Have you researched this company on the internet. Distance learning does seem to be a bit of a minefield as it's so hard to find out whether the company is respected or not.

[Cristo]

Sorry Hermia, its 100 hours of homework and then 5 days of hands on practical work at one of their training centres per module. There are a total of 4 modules in all.  Their tutors are available via e-mail or telephone from the minute I sign up. It does cost me several thousand pounds but they help to find me employment or set up my own business. I can do all of this and carry on a full time job as well. Thanks for your interest.I have searched the net about this firm and have only found positive info so far.

[Hermia]

I had this vision of you sitting on the bathroom floor with a spanner and an instruction sheet! It sounds an interesting course. Have you contacted the Institute of Plumbing? I presume they would have to certify courses in the UK so they might be worth contacting. www.iphe.org.uk.