ABBE Diploma in Retrofit Coordination and Risk Management Level 5

In a nutshell

A Personal Learning Account is a new initiative from the Welsh Government. It is a free and flexible way to learn. The initiative will offer people the chance to access free, part-time courses that offer flexible and convenient learning around their existing lifestyle.

This qualification is designed for individuals already qualified in site/building project management to gain a qualification in the project coordination and risk management of domestic retrofit projects, as well as providing a route for those already working in a retrofit capacity but lacking specific qualifications.

The qualification will equip learners with the specific knowledge and skills to deliver domestic retrofit projects to the standards detailed in PAS2035. The Retrofit Coordinator role is mandatory for all retrofit projects undertaken in conjunction with PAS2035 which is fully backed by the Welsh Government and TrustMark.

This course is for...

... anyone aged 19+, living in Wales and in employment. The usual salary cap of £32,371 a year does not apply for this course.

... those individuals who are involved in the domestic building sector, particularly those who are already involved or are looking to become involved in decarbonisation/energy efficiency projects

... those working in the construction industry and specialising in retrofit

Course content

This Level 5 qualification is designed to cover the end-to-end project coordination from the inception of a retrofit project to handover and continued evaluation, including:

• Assessing Dwellings for Retrofit
• Building Physics – Managing Risk
• Improvement Option Evaluation and Medium-term Retrofit Plans
• Improving Airtightness and Ventilation
• Improving the Building Fabric – Walls and Windows
• Improving the Building Services – Heating, Hot Water, Lighting and Power
• Improving the Building Services – Renewable Energy Systems
• Introduction to Retrofit Under PAS2035
• Post Retrofit Testing, Monitoring and Evaluation
• Retrofit Quality Assurance and Risk Management
• Understand the Requirements for Lodgement of Measures to TrustMark

The qualification is assessed through a combination of a mandatory end of qualification knowledge test, professional discussion(s) and externally set, internally marked scenario case study.

Achievement of this qualification confirms the learner has gained the knowledge and skills required to progress directly into employment as a Retrofit Coordinator for domestic retrofit projects delivered under PAS 2035.

Entry Requirements

You will be assessed based upon your current knowledge, any questions and professional discussions can be done in your own time. To undertake this NVQ you will need to have prior knowledge and experience in the built environment and construction industry.

Learners must hold a Level 4 or above qualification in a building-related subject such as architecture, surveying, engineering or construction site management, or a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at Level 3 or above and have minimum of 5 years’ experience in a subject related to the management or supervision of construction and domestic construction projects.

Candidates must have basic level of literacy, be in employment and have access to an observable working situation. Basic IT skills may be required but aren't essential.

Additional information

The PLA programme intends to provide quality career advice and guidance to participants before, during and after their learning.

Prior to being enrolled onto your PLA funded course, a individual learning plan will be discussed with you to ensure that the right learning has been considered.

This will include a general discussion on the following topics:

• formal education or qualifications in related fields
• prior experience within the industry or field
• career aspirations
• dedication of time required