EAL has launched two new building services qualifications.
It says it has designed the new qualifications to enable learners to acquire fundamental knowledge and some of the practical aspects involved within building services occupations.The EAL Level 1 Certificate in Access to Building Services Engineering and EAL Level 2 Diploma in Access to Building Services Engineering qualifications are open to those looking to enter the sector.

Designed to give an insight into a career in the building services industry, the L1 certificate is available to anyone over the age of 14, while the L2 diploma is intended for those over 16; both qualifications are open to those with no prior experience in the sector.

By providing experience of the different career opportunities, the two new qualifications can help to improve student retention rates as learners have obtained knowledge of the industry before embarking on their career.

Both qualifications share units, providing accelerated progression for those who complete the L1 certificate and want to progress to the L2 diploma. Additionally, those who complete the L2 diploma can carry forward the units to a Level 2 NVQ Diploma and/or apprenticeship in heating and ventilation, or plumbing and also will have some understanding of electrotechnical operations. Learners therefore, come away with meaningful qualifications that lead to further learning and future employment opportunities.

EAL's managing director Ann Watson said: 'The introduction of these two new qualifications underlines EAL's determination to provide opportunities for those wishing to embark on a career in the building services sector. The L1 Certificate and L2 Diploma provide a comprehensive overview of the core industry concepts and allow those wishing to go on to become apprentices to take this valuable knowledge with them.'

EAL, (EMTA Awards Limited) is a specialist awarding organisation, accredited by Ofqual and supported by SummitSkills. The two qualifications cover refrigeration and air conditioning, electrical installation, plumbing, and heating and ventilation. They also focus on the issues surrounding safe working practices, the scientific principles within building services engineering and the applications of environmental protection measures.

For further details about these qualifications visit www.eal.org.uk, call 0870 240 6889 or email customercare@eal.org.uk.