Electrical
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a work-based learning programme designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed to develop your prospects and career in the industry. By starting an Electrical Installation Apprenticeship you begin the first step to a challenging and rewarding career. Normally, you should have 4 GCSEs at grade C or above in relevant subjects with good practical skills and a logical approach to problem solving. Self motivation and a keenness to learn from others is also important as is the ability to use your own initiative and a willingness to undertake training.
How do I find an Apprenticeship?
The first thing you need to do is to find a job. Apprenticeships are work-based which means you need to be employed before you can start your training.
There are many places you can go to find a job; Connexions, local papers, internet job sites, and Job Centre Plus. You can even try friends and family to see if they know anybody who may have a vacancy.
Complete an Electrical Expression of Interest Form with Total People and we may be able to assist you in your search for employment. On receipt of your details we will forward them to employers that we know are looking to recruit at that time who may contact you to arrange an interview.
Once you have gained employment contact Total People!
What happens then?
Total People will send one of their Training Advisers out to you. They will sit down with both you and your employer to arrange your learning plan.
Your training will require you to attend a local college for one day a week. Your employer will give you time off to attend your classes and meet with your Training Adviser.
How long will it take?
The time taken to complete your Apprenticeship will usually be 3 – 4 years depending on any prior achievements and any relevant experience that you may have.
The NVQ is typically evidenced in the last two years of your Apprenticeship when you are able to demonstrate skills and knowledge at a Level 3 standard. The exact time taken will depend on you, your employer and your Training Adviser.
The City and Guilds 2330 Level 2 and Level 3 Technical Certificate is delivered at a local college, therefore you will tend to start in September and finish at around June / July time. The Level 2 will typically take 2 years on day release and the Level 3 a third year.
Key Skills take around 12 months to complete, but again this is dependant upon you!
The AM2 Test is taken in your final year and is a 3 day timed test during which you will have to put to good use the many skills that you have learned throughout your Apprenticeship.
Completing your Apprenticeship
Your Electrotechnical Apprenticeship is made up from 4 core elements;
- NVQ
- Technical Certificate
- Key Skills
- AM2 Test Practical Performance Assessment
Your NVQ portfolio is like a work diary, it records your activities and experiences on site. Your portfolio is assessed to make sure you are competent. Your work will be assessed at your place of work.
The Technical Certificate gives you the underpinning knowledge needed to carry out the tasks of your NVQ.
Key Skills are similar to Maths and English and ICT GCSEs; however learning is focussed around your chosen industry making your learning more interesting and relevant.
You may also be given the opportunity to complete additional course such as First Aid and Wiring Regulations courses.
Further Progression
On completion of your Advanced Apprenticeship training you can be graded as a Qualified Electrician. This may be your ambition, or you may wish to progress further within the industry. Options available to you might include Site Foreman, Contract/Project Management, Electrical Engineering, Electrical Design or even running your own business. Whichever route you take, with hard work and the right training, you will have many opportunities to advance within the industry.
