A research project to explore apprenticeships and industry perceptions of professional recognition across the plumbing and heating sector is to be carried out by the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering and SummitSkills.

The project, funded by The Gatsby Foundation, will look at how the apprenticeship system and EngTech registrations are working and how both can be maximised for the plumbing and heating sector, particularly in the case of micro and small to medium businesses.

Considering attitudes towards professional registration and competence schemes, assessing the potential for apprenticeships to meet future skills requirements and understanding the perceived value of EngTech registration are included within the research objectives.

Focus groups and questionnaires to companies and individuals will be conducted over the forthcoming weeks and the research will culminate with a report to be published in July.

“This is an excellent initiative which provides a great opportunity for industry to collaborate and safeguard future apprenticeships,” said Kevin Wellman, chief executive officer of CIPHE.

To find out more about the project contact Jacqui Chivers on 07834 868947.