What is ACS?
The Accredited Certification Scheme (ACS) is the nationally recognised route for gas operatives to gain the certificate of competence required to join the Gas Safe Register.
Without ACS certification, operatives cannot legally work on gas appliances. Successful completion of this programme supports learners in achieving the qualifications needed to apply for Gas Safe registration.
Course Suitability – Skill Level
The Managed Learning Programme (MLP) is suitable for candidates of varying experience levels, from complete beginners to experienced operatives looking to formalise their qualifications.
Skill level suitability can be discussed in detail with our training team prior to enrolment.
Qualification Structure (All Levels)
All learners will be working towards the following ACS qualifications:
- CCN1 – Core Gas Safety
- CPA1 – Combustion Performance Analysis
- CENWAT – Central Heating Boilers & Water Heaters
Maximum completion time: 24 months
Beginner Level
Designed for those with little or no previous gas industry experience.
- ACS Qualification route
- Maximum 24 months to complete
- CCN1, CPA1, CENWAT
Intermediate Level
Ideal for those with some relevant experience or related qualifications.
- ACS Qualification route
- Maximum 24 months to complete
- CCN1, CPA1, CENWAT
Advanced Level
Suitable for experienced operatives needing ACS certification.
- ACS Qualification route
- Maximum 24 months to complete
- CCN1, CPA1, CENWAT
Syllabus & Programme Structure
Step 1 – Classroom Training
Timeframe: Approximately 8 months (part-time)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 4:00pm
This stage covers essential theory, practical skills, and underpinning knowledge to prepare learners for portfolio building and assessment.
Step 2 – Portfolio Building
Timeframe: Up to 6 months
Portfolio building is a mandatory and critical part of the programme.
You must be working alongside a Gas Safe registered engineer to gather real-world evidence and complete your portfolio.
Step 3 – Final ACS Assessment
Timeframe: 5 days
Assessments take place at the training centre and include theoretical and practical exams in:
- CCN1
- CPA1
- CENWAT (Central heating boilers)
Step 4 – Additional Qualifications
After a minimum of 12 months on the Gas Safe Register, learners can return to add further appliances to their scope of work, such as:
- Domestic cookers
- Gas fires
Please speak to our staff to discuss available options and progression routes. we also offer routes for CMA3 (metering)