The studio will serve as a hub for collaborative training sessions with experienced installers, colleges, and trade associations. Content will be made freely available via Lawton Tubes’ YouTube channel and shared with training centres to complement existing syllabuses.
Demonstrations will cover copper pipe fundamentals, including preparing, soldering, and pressing techniques, alongside guidance on modern tools and installation best practices. The initiative responds to a pressing industry need: according to the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the UK must recruit approximately 48,000 skilled tradespeople annually over the next four years to meet demand.
Robert Lawton, Marketing and Sales Director at Lawton Tubes, said: “Our old boardroom played host to some big decisions over the years that enabled our business to grow exponentially, and we are hoping its new use will play a part in doing the same in terms of inspiring new careers across the industry. These videos and sessions will be educational and informative to not only educate those starting out in the industry, but to showcase just how cool a career in a trade is and the varied roles available.
“We will be recording alongside experienced installers to not only show how to install the products we are well known for, but also to give away top tips of the trade. The best part is it will be freely available to training centres, colleges and trade associations to share with students and members alike – as the content we produce will complement and enhance college syllabuses.”
The studio builds on Lawton Tubes’ ongoing outreach to colleges, including recent sessions at Derby College, where students engaged with third-generation plumber Peter Booth, known online as PB Plumber, and other professionals.
Booth commented: “As someone who’s spent years on the tools, I know how valuable it is to have practical, real-world guidance when you’re just starting out. That’s why I’m really proud to be supporting this initiative, as it’s all about giving the next generation of installers the tips, shortcuts, and confidence they need to do the job right – as well as providing insights to others considering a career in an installer trade.”
Adrian Ball, plumbing and gas coordinator at Derby College, added: “Colleges and learners will benefit greatly from expert-led training using simulated scenarios that they can visit in their free time, and use to continue learning and enhancing their skills. Industry partnerships are critical for developing real life skills for the next generation of plumbers and other installer trades.”