Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers' Federation (SNIPEF) have announced the launch of a new nationwide consultation with Plumbing operatives and employees to help develop the sector's apprenticeship.

The activity is part of a series of consultations planned in order to undertake a comprehensive review of Scotland's Plumbing and Heating Apprenticeship.

An online employee/operative survey is now live, to ensure any redesigned Plumbing and Heating Apprenticeship aligns with real-life workplace practices. The survey aims to understand the specific work tasks that final-year apprentices and current plumbing and heating operatives do within their roles.

Anyone working in the industry can provide their views by 19 November by logging on to bit.ly/PlumbingApprenticeshipEmployees

SDS and SNIPEF are also looking for anyone working in plumbing to get involved in a plumbing and heating 'apprentice /operative' workshop in Glasgow on Tuesday, 12 December, to develop further the work tasks that plumbing and heating engineers currently undertake.

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To attend the one-day workshop, contact the SDS Apprenticeship Development Manager for the Construction sector, Laura Brady, by e-mailing [email protected]

SDS Construction Skills Planning Manager Elaine Ellis said: "Insight from the sector's workforce on job roles is vital to inform and shape the apprenticeship and ensure it reflects current demands.

"The online survey allows us to reach a wide audience that can help us to gain a broad and balanced perspective, whilst the workshop enables us to delve more deeply into the tasks and responsibilities of those working in all levels and areas of Plumbing and Heating."

SDS and SNIPEF are actively seeking employers of all sizes, representative bodies and employees across the plumbing and heating sector to get involved in the design and development work of the sector's apprenticeship.

The new employer-led approach allows employers to take ownership of the design and construction of apprenticeships, ensuring they are relevant, adaptable and develop the skills they need.

A particular part of the review will be to assess the curriculum's relevance given the increasing demand for renewable technology skills – such as heat pump design, installation and maintenance.

Following the employee and operative consultation process, employers and industry bodies are needed to join the Technical Expert Group (TEG) to begin the development of the new apprenticeship standard and framework, with support from training providers and awarding bodies as part of the Provider Advisory Group (PAG).

SDS is actively seeking employers, apprentices, training providers and awarding bodies to participate in these groups.

To register your details and get involved in developing apprenticeships fit for now and the future, contact [email protected]