RNN Group Pioneers Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship

RNN Group (made up of campuses including Rotherham College, North Notts College, Dearne Valley College and University Centre Rotherham (UCR), and the National Fluid Power Centre) is delivering the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship which is the first apprenticeship of its kind.

Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentices are training as heat pump installers who will be able to fit low-carbon heating systems. Investing in this apprenticeship standard will help future-proof the workforce.

Heat pump installation rates in the UK are growing steadily. The last two years were both record years for certified heat pump installations, and 2024 is set to smash break records again.

50,000 heat pump engineers will be needed to meet UK heat pump installation targets, so the apprenticeship will help contribute to meeting that demand.

The Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship was selected by industry experts as one of six “green apprenticeships” to mark King Charles’s Coronation last year. 

Jason Austin, CEO & Principal at the RNN Group, said,

“I am delighted that we have taken on Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentices and are supporting a green agenda which is very important to the Group.”

“The RNN Group is dedicated to leading on innovation and skills in our communities and we recognise that this sort of initiative aligns well with our mission as well as ensuring we are supporting businesses in the future.”

The MCS Foundation has been supporting the rollout of the apprenticeship, for example through grants for training providers and employers.

Alastair Mumford, Programme Director at the foundation said,

“The Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship will equip young people with the skills to install heat pumps correctly and ensure consumer confidence. It is fantastic to see RNN Group taking on a first cohort of low carbon heating technician apprentices who will be ready for work in a growing sector.”