Block courses run for 2-5 weeks at specific times throughout the year. Your apprentice attends multiple block courses during their apprenticeship, gaining concentrated learning in plumbing theory, gas safety protocols, PGDB regulations, and practical drainage skills. Between block courses, they complete online learning modules and attend periodic assessments. This schedule means minimal disruption to your projects while ensuring thorough training across all PGD trades.
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Why choose us for apprentice training?
Your apprentices learn from highly experienced industry experts who know their trade inside-out, back-to-front. We deliver both off-job and on-job training that teaches the skills actually needed on the job site.
We bring specialist PGD training expertise that employers trust. We've trained thousands of plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers across residential, commercial and industrial work. Our tutors are practising industry professionals, not just classroom teachers. Your apprentices learn current industry practices, emerging technologies, and the core skills that make them valuable from day one as a qualified tradie.
How PGD apprentice training works
Your apprentice completes their New Zealand Certificate in Plumbing, Gasfitting and/or Drainlaying (Level 4) over three to four years through structured block courses, night classes, and on-site assessments. We handle all formal training requirements while you provide practical work experience.
The training combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on application. Your apprentice attends intensive block courses during scheduled periods, then returns to work with you applying what they've learned. Night classes provide ongoing support and additional learning opportunities without disrupting your work schedule.
What does the training schedule look like?
What support do you provide during training?
Our Apprentice Mentors conduct regular workplace visits to assess on-job progress and ensure your apprentice applies their learning correctly. We provide a learning management system where apprentices complete online assessments and access training materials. You'll receive progress reports and direct communication with tutors about your apprentice's development. If issues arise, we address them immediately rather than waiting for the next formal review.
Real outcomes for your business
Working with New Zealand's leading PGD training provider delivers measurable results. Apprentices who train with Skills Trades Training develop confidence and skills, returning from each training session ready to contribute more effectively on site.
Your apprentices graduate with plumbing, gasfitting and drainlaying qualifications that enable them to work confidently across residential, commercial and industrial projects. They understand PGDB compliance requirements, gas safety certificates, and modern installation techniques. Structured career development helps apprentices see long-term value in essential trades work, so they're more invested in doing good work for your business and staying with your company long-term.
Getting started with apprentice training
Ready to train your PGD apprentice with New Zealand's leading training provider? We facilitate the entire process from training agreement setup to graduation. Our team handles all documentation, PGDB registration requirements, and qualification scheduling.
We'll arrange a meeting with you and your apprentice to complete the training agreement documentation. Once registered, your apprentice gains access to our learning management system, night class allocations, and block course schedules. We also provide support for PGDB Trainee Limited Certificate applications and any bridging requirements if your apprentice needs additional foundation skills.
Choose from our range of Level 4 programmes:
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Plumbing
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Gasfitting
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Drainlaying
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Plumbing & Drainlaying
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Plumbing & Gasfitting
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Plumbing, Gasfitting & Drainlaying
We’re New Zealand's leading trades training provider for electrical, plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying and roofing. Our industry experts prepare the next generation of tradies with skills that work where it matters – on the job site.
We keep the world running
From power grids to water mains, our graduates maintain the essential infrastructure that keeps New Zealand running every day.