Gas Engineering Operative Level 3 Apprenticeship

Perfect for beginners looking to start a career in gas engineering

The Gas Engineering Operative Apprenticeship is a Level 3, nationally recognised qualification designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to work safely and effectively in domestic or commercial gas environments.

Delivered in Plymouth, this apprenticeship combines classroom learning with real-world, on-the-job training.

✅ The Details

Qualification: Level 3 Diploma in Gas Engineering (City & Guilds)
Duration: 27 months plus 3 months End Point Assessment (EPA)
Delivery: One day per week classroom sessions in Plymouth or Redruth
Workplace support: Your designated Assessor/Trainer will visit your workplace to support portfolio development and provide guidance
Assessment: End Point Assessment (EPA) including observation of practice, professional discussion, and knowledge test

Functional Skills: Maths and English Level 2 (or equivalent GCSEs); support available if required
Training includes: Core and optional units covering gas systems, appliances, and workplace safety

✅ Who is it for?

• Individuals starting a career in gas engineering
• Employees in plumbing, heating, or technical trades seeking upskilling
• Junior engineers working towards a recognised gas qualification
• Employers seeking to develop skilled gas operatives

✅ What you’ll learn

You’ll gain practical skills and knowledge through classroom learning and on-the-job training. Topics include:

• Health & Safety in Gas Utilisation
• Scientific Principles in combustion and gas behaviour
• Gas Safety and Regulations
• Installation & Maintenance of Gas Pipework (up to 35mm)
• Commissioning and Decommissioning of systems
• Installation and Maintenance of cookers, tumble dryers, leisure appliances, water heaters, central heating appliances, gas fires, and hot water systems
• Central heating and plumbing systems
• Water supply regulations and bylaws

Several units are optional and tailored to your chosen pathway. You’ll apply your learning directly in the workplace, gaining real-world experience and confidence.

✅ Entry Requirements

• Maths and English Level 2 (or equivalent GCSEs)
• Functional Skills support available if needed
• City & Guilds registration required for this qualification

✅ Common job roles include:

• Gas Engineer
• Installation Engineer
• Maintenance Engineer
• Heating and Plumbing Technician
• Service Engineer

✅ Progression Opportunities

Once you complete your Level 3 Apprenticeship, you can continue your development with:

• Senior Gas Engineer roles
• Technical or supervisory positions in heating and plumbing
• Further qualifications in gas installation, maintenance, or safety

These next steps build on your skills and open the door to more senior technical positions.

✅ Costs

  • This is a government-funded initiative: apprentices are not required to pay for their training. Employers with a wage bill of under £3 million may need to make a 5% contribution towards training costs.
  • The cost of this Apprenticeship is set at £22,000, with an employer contribution rate of £1,100 + VAT.
  • Employers recruiting an Apprentice aged 16–21 years old, will be exempt from paying the employer contribution.
  • If the Apprentice is aged 16–18 years old, employers will receive a £1,000 government incentive to be used towards training and salary costs.

Visit this page to find out more about employer costs and responsibilities.

✅ Ready to Apply?

Click here to visit the contact page and get in touch with a Focus Training centre near you.