South West installers – we’re coming for you!

Our new Expert Academy Training Centre is officially open in Portishead, near Bristol. 

Hands-on training. Local access. Same Ideal quality. 

Developed in partnership with James Hargreaves Plumbing Supplies, the new centre is designed to give heating professionals across the region the training, tools, and confidence to take on the low-carbon future. 

With easy access from the M5, it’s perfectly placed for installers from Cardiff to Exeter – offering a full line-up of Expert Academy courses, including: 

• Air source heat pump installation and design 

• Hydronic system design and efficiency 

• Domestic product training across the latest Ideal Heating ranges 

Andrew Johnson, Training and Design Services Director at Ideal Heating, said: 

“We’re delighted to be opening our fifth Expert Academy, and especially proud to be doing so in partnership with James Hargreaves. This fantastic new facility will make it easier for heating professionals across the South West to access our award-winning training and build their knowledge in low-carbon technologies. 

It’s another important step in expanding our national training network and supporting the growing number of installers who are ready to make the move to heat pumps.” 

Martin Healy, National Branch Director at James Hargreaves Ltd added:  

“We’re proud to be partnering with Ideal Heating to bring the new Expert Academy centre to life. Training and supporting installers is so important, and this facility takes that to the next level. It’s fantastic to see such a modern, hands-on space that will help local engineers build their confidence with heat pumps and low-carbon technologies.” 

Like all our Expert Academy centres, Portishead is built around real kit, real experience, and real results – with fully operational training rigs that go beyond the classroom. You’ll get the hands-on experience you need to install with confidence. 

And with many courses funded or subsidised, it’s never been easier to upskill, gain new qualifications, and futureproof your business. 

It’s all part of our mission to make the move to heat pumps feel simple, supported and, well – Ideal. 

Stay tuned for updates as we get ready to open the doors later this month. 

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