
Air Conditioning & Refrigeration
Hands-on training in installing, maintaining, and repairing air-conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Programme Details
This programme is designed to enable apprentices to acquire the competencies and skills required by a journeyman in the trade of Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration. Modules include:
- Tools and Equipment/Workshop Procedures
- Basic Electricity
- Installation of Domestic Air-Conditioning Systems and Room Air-Conditioners
- Maintenance of Room Air-Conditioners
- Installation of Split Air-Conditioning systems
- Maintenance of Domestic Air-Conditioning
- Trouble Shooting for Faults in Domestic Air-Conditioners
- Refrigeration Piping
- Load Estimation
- Design and Layout of Ducts
- Controls, Circuits and Instrumentation
- Installation of Commercial Air-Conditioners
- Servicing, Repairing and Trouble Shooting Commercial Air-Conditioners
- Installing Automobile Air Conditioners
- Servicing and Repair of Automobile Air-Conditioners
- Refrigerants, Oils and Lubricants
- Domestic Refrigeration Systems
- Domestic Electrical Circuits
- Installation, Trouble Shooting and Maintenance Procedures
- Components of Commercial Refrigeration Systems
- Installing and Servicing Commercial Refrigeration Systems
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is a voluntary contractual training programme between the employer and apprentice which is ratified by the Director of Training of the Board.
Who can become an Apprentice?
Anyone of school leaving age or over, who is desirous of being trained in a field in which a scheme of training is offered, is eligible.
What qualifications do I need to become an apprentice?
No qualifications are required.
How long is the Apprenticeship Programme?
The apprenticeship contract is usually for a period of three years
although some exemptions can be made to shorten the period of training
if the apprentice has already completed some theoretical or practical
training at an approved institution. Exemptions are subject to the
Director’s discretion.
Do I have to find my own employer?
The Board is able to facilitate this process but you can also find your own employer.
Will I be paid while on the Apprenticeship Programme?
Yes, note that the wage paid varies according to the company which employs you. An apprentice is paid 45%, 55% and 75% of a regular employee’s pay in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd respectively.
What is a Scheme of Training?
A scheme of training is a document which outlines the skills, tasks and competences that you should acquire during your apprenticeship.
What do I receive at the end of the Apprenticeship programme?
You will receive a Certificate of Apprenticeship. Note that in order to receive certification persons must have completed both the practical and theoretical aspects of their training programme. Certification is based on attendance, the completion of the skills, tasks and competencies listed in the scheme of training and the submission of relevant records from the employer and the approved academic institution.
How recognized are the Certificates?
Certificates are nationally and internationally recognized.
What is the Admissions Policy for Apprenticeship programmes?
Applicants must be at least sixteen (16) years old and should have completed nine years of formal education. Applicants may identify an employer who agrees to train them in their chosen trade, or they may request assistance from the BVTB in finding a suitable employer. Applicants must be willing to enter a contractual relationship with the employer as outlined in the Laws of Barbados Cap 42 on Apprenticeship.
