Level 2 Property Maintenance Operative Apprenticeship Study Mode: Part-Time   |    Course Level: Level 2

Where will this course lead?

This apprenticeship leads to a career in facilities management and property upkeep. You could find yourself working for housing associations, hospitals, schools, hotels, or large commercial offices. Because you'll possess a broad range of skills, you will be the first person called to solve a problem, ensuring no two days are ever the same.

What will I study?

This course provides a "jack-of-all-trades" foundation, teaching you the basics of several core disciplines:

• Plumbing: Minor repairs to leaks, and unblocking drains.
• Carpentry & Joinery: Repairing doors, windows, and kitchen units.
• Plastering & Tiling: Patching up walls and replacing damaged floor or wall tiles.
• Painting & Decorating: Maintaining the internal and external appearance of buildings.
• External Maintenance: Clearing gutters and maintaining basic landscaping or fencing.
• Health & Safety: Understanding risk assessments and the legal requirements of building maintenance.

How will this course be delivered?

This is a work-based apprenticeship, meaning it blends real work with formal training.  Most of your learning happens on the job at your employer's premises, backed up with off-the job training at college.

• On-the-Job (Work-Based) Learning: Most of your training will be practical, hands-on experience in your workplace, working alongside experienced tradespersons.
• Off-the-Job Training: A minimum of 20% of your time will be dedicated to 'off-the-job' training. This includes day-release at college as well as self-directed study time for theory and practice.
• Duration: The apprenticeship typically takes 24 months to complete.  (This may be reduced if you have relevant prior experience.)
• Support: You'll be supported by your employer, a dedicated college tutor/assessor, and an in-work mentor throughout the programme.

What qualifications will I get?

Upon completion, you will earn:

• Level 2 Property Maintenance Operative Apprenticeship Standard.
• Relevant Functional Skills in English and Maths (if required).
• Preparation for various site safety cards, helping you access diverse work environments.

How will I be assessed?

Your journey has two main stages:

1. On-Programme Assessment: This includes continuous assessment of your work performance, regular reviews with your employer and training provider, practical projects, and building a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.
2. End-Point Assessment (EPA): Once you and your employer agree you are ready (a stage known as Gateway), you will sit the final assessment, which includes:

• Knowledge Test: A multiple-choice exam to test your understanding of the theory.
• Observation: A practical assessment where an independent examiner watches you perform specific maintenance tasks.
• Professional Discussion: An interview-style chat about your work portfolio to prove you know your stuff.

How do I get a place on the course?

In order to gain a place on this course, applicants must meet the entry criteria and attend a formal interview. All applications are to be submitted via the college website: https://www.solihull.ac.uk/apprentice/how-do-i-apply

If you have a learning difficulty or disability, please let us know when you apply. If you need help with completing your application and at interview, we can provide support: http://www.solihull.ac.uk/uni-level-learner/student-services

What are the entry requirements?

To join this programme, you must:

• Be at least 16 years of age.
• Be employed in a relevant property maintenance role for a minimum of 30 hours per week.
• Hold English GCSE Grade 2/E, Level 1 Functional Skills, or an equivalent.
• Hold Mathematics GCSE Grade 2/E, Level 1 Functional Skills, or an equivalent.
• Attributes: A logical approach to problem-solving, good communication skills, and a strong passion for fixing things and helping people.
• Demonstrate a genuine passion for the industry and a "can-do" attitude.

What else do I need to know?

Property maintenance often involves interacting with the public or tenants, so a friendly, professional manner is essential. You'll need to be comfortable using a wide variety of tools and working in different environments -from a boiler room one hour to a modern office the next.

What can I do after this course?

A PMO qualification is a fantastic springboard. You could:

• Specialise further by taking a Level 2 qualification or an apprenticeship in a specific trade such as Carpentry, Painting & Decorating, Bricklaying, or Plastering.
• Advance to a Senior Maintenance Role overseeing a team of operatives.
• Move into Facilities Management or Estates Management.
• Start your own Property Maintenance business, offering services to domestic and commercial clients.