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Vaillant has announced its support for the inaugural cohort of Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentices (LCHTA) accredited with the King’s Standard.
It partnered with local Derby College Group, where the students will be based, Vaillant has ensured that – for the first time – apprentices are able to take advantage of training with low carbon technology as its focus.
Mark Wilkins, training and technologies director at Vaillant commented: “Investing in young people and encouraging new entrants to the industry is paramount for the future of low carbon technologies. I was delighted to see such a huge interest in the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship, and we have been overwhelmed with the amount of passion and drive that all applicants displayed.
“It is also encouraging to see a diverse group of applicants – we are seeing a shift in the industry, historically being male dominant, so it is exciting to be part of these changes, building the future workforce.
“The industry is developing, and there’s a fantastic support network out there for those interested in pursuing a career, no matter your background – there are opportunities for everyone. This is just the beginning and we’re looking forward to remaining invested in training up the future workforce of the heating industry”.
Vaillant explained that it is proud to be investing in 10 full-time, employed apprentices throughout their 3-year course, supporting the UK government to meet their targets of installing 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028. The new apprentices will eventually graduate as a Level 3 Low Carbon Heating Technician.
Carol Dixon, director of employer partnerships at Derby College Group, added: “We are thrilled to be working with Vaillant to roll out the first Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship at Derby College Group. A great deal of work has gone into getting the course ready for this first cohort and we are delighted to be able to set these apprentices well on the way to a fulfilling career.
“As one of the largest heating manufacturers in the area, the support Vaillant has been able to provide to this group and in shaping the course, will go a long way to ensuring installers of the future have low carbon systems well within their skill set. We very much look forward to continuing to prepare engineers of the future as part of this partnership for years to come.”
The course is recognised by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) and was developed by MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) with support from employers across the low carbon heating sector including MCS certified contractors.
Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS said: “I’m delighted to see the enthusiasm for our Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship and that Vaillant have worked closely with their local College to enable access onto the course.
“We need to develop a workforce that are equipped to support homeowners in heating and decarbonising their homes. It is therefore critical that we have dedicated pathways to develop an army of renewable heating installers with certifiable skills who know how to design and fit these systems efficiently.”
