If you are working in the industry but the Experienced Worker Assessment isn’t right for you at this time due to gaps in your knowledge or experience, don’t give up! It may be you just need a more time or experience in certain areas before you’re ready to apply.
It’s always recommended you complete a relevant industry-approved Level 3 route, recognised by employers.
The Installation & Maintenance Electrician Apprenticeship or Domestic Electrician Apprenticeship may be an option. There’s no age restriction or financial contribution from you, you don’t have to start at the beginning and prior knowledge and qualifications can be recognised to reduce the duration of the apprenticeship.
Otherwise the NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment) can be taken whether you’re employed or self-employed. If you do not already hold a Level 3 qualification and can cover the scope of work required, you may be eligible for government funding: Free Courses for Jobs – Skills for Life
An apprenticeship can be taken by a learner of any age to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviour required by an electrician. The duration of an apprenticeship can be reduced if the learner has relevant prior experience and knowledge. To be eligible for an apprenticeship, the learner must require at least 12 month’s training with 20% off-the-job learning within the learner’s usual working hours.
Recognition of Prior Learning will reduce the level of funding required for the apprenticeship.
Small employers (who do not pay apprenticeship levy contributions) share the costs of apprenticeship training with government and pay only 5% of the total funding required, spread over the duration of the apprenticeship. For example, a two-year apprenticeship would cost the employer a maximum of £450 over the two-year period, including the cost of end-point assessment and any technical training or assessment required with the provider.
Large employers fund apprenticeships through their existing levy contributions.
Otherwise, the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment) can be used to assess performance in the workplace. This will require full funding by the either the learner or employer unless the learner qualifies for funding under the Skills for Life programme: Free Courses for Jobs – Skills for Life
