The World Plumbing Council has accepted an invitation to become the fourth supporter of the Master Plumber Certificate programme.

The World Plumbing Council (WPC) has accepted an invitation to become the fourth supporter of the Master Plumber Certificate programme. In the future the symbol of the WPC will appear on Certificates with those of City & Guilds, the Worshipful Company of Plumbers and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (CIPHE). The last two, as founding members, will act as scrutinisers on behalf of the WPC.

The Master Plumber Certificate scheme, launched by Geoff Marsh MBE at a CIPHE conference in Stratford-upon-Avon in 2001, was the forerunner of a project recognising excellence in career development. It is now operated by the City of London Livery Companies Skills Council.

During the past twelve years, Apprentice and Journeyman Certificates have been introduced to provide a stepping-stone approach to career development. The theme within this programme is one of encouragement and support for those who embark on a quest for skilled employment.

Marsh said: “Now it is time to let the public know what Master Plumber Certificate holders stand for in a world where the concept of trust has been badly damaged. That is the next challenge in operating a scheme that has its roots in the City of London and its branches, potentially, in a similar format throughout the world.”

For further information on the Certificate schemes, please contact Lesley Challis at lesleyc@ciphe.org.uk.