Jack is studying an HNC in Building Services at Stockport College University Centre, specialising in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). He chose Stockport because it offered the course most relevant to his existing qualifications and to where he wants his career to go.
Jack, Building Services at Stockport College
Story Video
Background
Goal
Jack is already in full-time employment, and his course is funded through the apprenticeship levy. Everything he learns applies directly to his job, and his employer gives him protected time at work for study, so the course fits into his normal working week.
The HTQ is aligned to the Building Services Engineering Senior Technician occupational standard. Students learn to prepare design proposals for non-domestic HVAC installations, analyse heating and cooling loads, and design water services, sanitation and rainwater systems for large commercial buildings. The course also covers heat transfer, fluid flow, acoustics, control systems, Building Information Modelling (BIM) and managing a multi-trade building site safely.
Journey
Jack says the teachers and support staff have been great. Alongside deeper industry knowledge, which he notes is much sought after, he has developed teamwork and problem-solving skills through working with a new group of classmates. Returning to education in his thirties after time away means a lot to him, and he values having the support and options to do so.
Outcome
The HNC is strengthening Jack's abilities, knowledge and skills in his current role. A Building Services HNC leads into careers in HVAC, building services and mechanical engineering, and supports progression into more senior technical roles. Students can go on to a Level 5 HND and then a Level 6 top-up degree in building services or HVAC.
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