Name: Tommy Crookson

Centre: Livingston

Years with OLCI: 3

What did you do prior to becoming a plumbing and gas tutor?

When I left school in 1978 I started working in the family plumbing business and continued working there up until about 4 years ago.

What practical tips do you have for a plumber or gas engineer working on-site?

My advice is when you finish a job, always stand back and ask yourself if you’d accept it in your own home.  I’d also recommend carrying and using your own dust sheets and vacuum cleaner because it can create a good impression with the customer. Read more »

Have you got your PTS discount card? PTS (Plumbing Trade Supplies) can supply you with bathroom, heating, plumbing and renewable energy products, and genuine spares. If you haven’t got a discount card, please call us on 0207 430 8447.

As some of you may know, in 2010 the construction training provider Access 2 Trade Careers went into administration. Fortunately we stepped in and allowed the students who’d enrolled using Barclays Finance to continue their training with us.

These people are now OLCI students just as much as everyone else who enrols – all enjoying the same great benefits: the opportunity to train in one of our nationwide centres, the theory training that fits around your job and family commitments and the support of experienced and professional tutors.

Over the past few months, more than 1,300 former Access 2 Trade Careers students have been training hard at OLCI and are now getting qualified in their particular trades. Read more »

What resolutions did you make on 1st January? Do you want to expand your skills, earn more money, develop your trade career or start a business? Give our advisors a call on Freephone 0800 058 2848 and we may be able to help!

Ecotube has developed a programme which can enable you to get our Solar Thermal course for free*. You should first complete a registration form by visiting www.ecotube-kit.com. Ecotube will then send you vouchers which entitle you to discounts on Ecotube installation kits up to the value of the course.

* Vouchers are valid for one year. Other terms and conditions apply. Please see www.ecotube-kit.com for details.