17 February 2026
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With National Apprenticeship Week 2026 (9th – 15th February) now concluded, Vaillant has spoken with several of its Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentices and Mechatronics Apprentices to find their views on the appeal of this learning path.
Following the success of its first intake in 2023, Vaillant invested in a second cohort of Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentices (LCHTA) in September 2025.
Continuing its pioneering initiative with Derby College Group - where the students are based - Vaillant welcomed 12 new fully funded apprentices who are now undertaking a 3-year course and will graduate as a Level 3 Low Carbon Heating Technician.
As with the first group, the new cohort is aged from 16 to 21 including male and female participants, and is this year made up of ten external candidates and two employees from Vaillant who wanted to expand their own career credentials.
In addition to the Level 3 Low Carbon Technologies qualification, where the apprentices will learn about heat pumps and other low carbon technologies which are essential for their future careers, the new cohort will also receive a rounder view of working in the heating industry. This includes how to conduct themselves in customer’s homes and the requirement to offer an excellent customer experience and a high standard of service.
Alex, a third year Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentice at Vaillant, said: “The initial appeal of this apprenticeship was gaining hands on experience, whilst working towards my own qualifications and having a direct pathway towards a job at the end.
“I saw this apprenticeship as a great opportunity for the future and the net zero target is something I wanted to be a part of. I enjoy developing my knowledge and learning in a hands-on environment. I particularly enjoyed the first year where I learnt a variety of trades from bricklaying, plastering and electrical through to plumbing. I feel that the apprenticeship route is preparing me for my job and the future, and I am gradually getting more independent and competent as I progress.”
Jack, one of the latest cohort of first year Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprentices, also added: "After my previous role as a technical advisor, this apprenticeship at Vaillant was a natural next step to progress my career, offering a fantastic opportunity to earn while learning many transferable skills.
“What I enjoy most is the chance to learn diverse skills across multiple trades and the camaraderie with my colleagues. This experience is truly building my knowledge, providing me with numerous options for a highly skilled future, and I've even made great new friends along the way!"
The second and third years of the course include a structured programme of on-the-job training alongside Vaillant engineers and installer partners to provide a first-hand installation experience. This ensures all course participants will undertake a blend of practical training, as well as gaining real-world business perspectives over the three-year timescale.
The initial 2023 group, now in the third year of learning, is also providing important mentoring support for the new intake as they progress through their low carbon heating technology educational journey.
Gemma Fildes, HR Director at Vaillant, comments: “At Vaillant Group, we are committed to investing in both internal and external apprenticeship opportunities. Our strategic partnership with Derby College Group is one of the ways we are helping to develop a workforce equipped with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for the future. Together, we are building the key capabilities required to drive the UK’s transition to a lowcarbon future. By supporting our apprentices to thrive, we are helping to bridge the gap between education, the workplace, and the needs of our customers.”
The LCHTA course is recognised by Skills England, Government UK Apprenticeships and was developed by MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) with support from employers across the low carbon heating sector including MCS certified contractors. It also forms part of the Green Apprenticeships holding the Kings Standard.
Varied opportunities
Vaillant also takes on apprentices across its business, including those wanting to achieve a Mechatronics Apprenticeship. These Apprentices work with the Vaillant Industrial side of manufacturing group and are based within the company’s maintenance teams at Belper and Derby factories.
Charlie, a first year Mechatronics Apprentice, commented: "The appeal of an apprenticeship was definitely the 'earn while you learn' aspect and gaining firsthand experience.
“Vaillant's Mechatronics program stood out with its attractive work, solid qualifications, and the prospect of a permanent job. I knew Vaillant was an established company offering amazing career benefits. The direct experience I get daily is invaluable, and I feel my knowledge is growing immensely by learning from others and experiencing things firsthand."
For further information on the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship and other courses available, please email [email protected]
