Whether you've just enrolled on the 9289, you're part way through, or you're an apprentice trying to make sense of the bigger picture — this episode is your starting point.
In this first episode of our 9289 series, host Chris Bailey breaks down the City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Plumbing and Domestic Heating from the ground up. No jargon, no waffle — just a clear, honest walkthrough of what this qualification actually is, how it's structured, and what you need to do to get through it.
Chris covers:
✅ What the 9289 actually is and why it matters
✅ The three specialist pathways — Gas (9289-0191), Environmental Technologies (9289-0292), and Non-domestic Plumbing (9289-0393)
✅ How the four-phase structure works and how each phase aligns to your apprenticeship year
✅ The assessment types — multiple choice exams, practical assignments, and the all-important work log
✅ Why the portfolio of evidence (Unit 317) is not an afterthought — and why you need to start it on day one
✅ The exam format, assessment objectives, and what 60% pass mark really means
✅ Why the building services sector needs qualified plumbers right now — and why you're entering the trade at the best possible time
This episode is essential listening for:
— Level 2 Plumbing students moving up to Level 3
— Plumbing and domestic heating apprentices on ST0303
— T-Level Building Services Engineering students (Year 1 Core and Year 2 Occupational Specialism)
— Anyone supporting learners through the 9289
The Copper Connection Podcast is built for UK construction and building services learners — practical, honest, and always trade-focused.
🔗 Resources, revision guides, and episode notes at thecopperconnectionpodcast.co.uk
Next episode: Phase 1 — Health & Safety, Pipework, Scientific Principles, and System Layouts.
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