PHAM NEWS | MARCH 2026 Training Update


New facility to raise


installation standards


A new training facility has been opened by Zehnder in Camberley, Surrey, offering practical courses to address the HVAC skills gap. The Academy features a simulated indoor environment – a working apartment with fully operational heating, cooling and ventilation systems. Trainees can also use a Posi-


Joist rig, developed with partner MiTek, for design, ducting, and connector training. Zehnder’s latest equipment is available for live demonstrations and hands-on maintenance, servicing and commissioning, complemented by classroom sessions and online theory modules. Courses cover all stages of


HVAC design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance, emphasising a systems-first approach. Installations are trained to meet the energy-efficient and airtight standards of the forthcoming Future Homes Standard, while ensuring healthy, comfortable indoor environments. Stuart Smith, Zehnder Group


UK commercial director, comments: “While the UK


Benefits of press-fit tech 13


boasts some of the best specialist mechanical and electrical contractors, without a national qualification, there are simply not enough who are ventilation qualified and can do the job. This is resulting in uncompetitive quotes, shortcuts being taken, and a worryingly high number of poor installations being seen – and so the cycle continues. “We know that in the UK there


are still untrained tradespeople installing and commissioning ventilation systems with little or no knowledge. Once installed, many of these MVHR systems are left unmaintained and/or not serviced, leading to further issues down the line. That’s not a criticism. It’s a sign of a bigger problem – a systemic skills gap that’s holding our industry back. This investment by Zehnder is an


Pipe freezing techniques brought to the colleges


effort to upskill our workforce and tackle the issue.” Once the academy is in full


swing, Zehnder’s ambition is to build up a nationwide network of Zehnder Approved Partners – engineers qualified to install and maintain its products to ensure higher quality, consistency and confidence for its customers. “We can’t wait for a national


solution,” continues Smith. “The progress towards a national competency framework is slow and focused mainly on residential applications. That’s why we decided to take matters into our own hands.” Industry professionals that


want to sign up for courses at the Zehnder Academy can do so now using Zehnder’s Training Academy Portal. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/19


Accredited training and funding


Mitsubishi Electric is offering LCL Awards-certified, Ofqual- accredited heat pump and low temperature heating courses at its Hatfield Training Centre, supporting heating professionals as the industry moves to low- carbon solutions. Developed with the CIPHE, the


To help upskill the next generation of plumbing installers, Arctic Hayes is expanding its training partnerships with key colleges nationwide by enabling them to include specialist pipe-freeze training in their curricula. It will facilitate live technical demonstrations and interactive Q&A sessions, with students receiving a certificate of completion to enhance their qualifications. Niall McGuckin, business


development executive at Arctic Hayes, explains: “We’re great believers in enhancing student learning and introducing new technologies and practices to them, so this is time very well spent. It helps to pave their path to a


promising career and adapt to ever changing industry trends. “Our Aero disposable pipe freeze


kits utilise a non-flammable refrigerant and are a simple and cost-effective way to complete basic domestic plumbing jobs without needing a costly system drain down or turning off the mains.” Darren Manning, plumbing/gas


lecturer and assessor at Oaklands College in St Albans, comments: “I’ve been with a couple of local colleges over the last few years and always get Arctic Hayes involved. They’re a really good company to work alongside and my students enjoy learning about pipe freezing from them.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/21


Heat Pump Association, and MCS, the courses have been designed to equip installers with the skills to design, install, and maintain low-temperature heating and heat pump systems in domestic dwellings. Available qualifications include


Level 3 Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems, Level 3 Heat Pump Installation and Maintenance, and the LCL Water Regulations Certificate. Courses combine theory and practical competency, ensuring installers meet industry standards.


Funding options are available,


including up to £500 discounts for eligible delegates, and Mitsubishi Electric Partner Programme members can reclaim training costs via the Relationship Development Fund. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/22


Trainer is in the matrix


Fast-growing gas, plumbing and heating training provider, Smart Energy Training, has achieved a top accreditation in recognition of the high-quality advice and guidance it offers to learners. The company has been accredited to the matrix Standard for the first time after a thorough assessment of its services and structures. Owned by the Department for Education, the matrix Standard is the international quality standard for organisations that deliver information, advice and guidance, either as their sole purpose or as part of their service offering. Roger Chapman, head of the matrix service, says: “This is a fantastic


achievement for Smart Energy Training and I would like to congratulate the team on their success.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/23


As part of an ongoing initiative to promote the benefits of press-fit technology, Conex Bänninger visited students at Stephenson College – part of the newly formed Loughborough College Group. Students aged 16 and 18 were


given a practical, hands-on demonstration of Conex Bänninger’s >B< Press system, learning how to create secure, permanent, leak-free joints. The fitting is designed for use across a wide range of applications, including heating systems, hot and cold-water installations, and gas installations, giving students valuable exposure to modern industry practices. The training sessions were


delivered by Kevin Goodison, regional technical sales manager


at Conex Bänninger, who worked with two separate groups of learners – those studying for a Level 1 Plumbing Diploma and those on the Level 2 programme. Commenting on the visit, Kevin


says: “It’s great to visit a college like this one and meet enthusiastic students who really want to develop their skills. Many tried their hand at using >B< Press and found it quick and easy to use. “Today’s youngsters are feeling


the pressure of finding a career in an increasingly difficult job market. However, there continues to be a growing demand for plumbers and electricians, and developing practical skills on courses like those provided at the College are invaluable.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/326/20


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