Why Electricians Should Use Apprenticeships

The UK construction sector is facing a serious skills crisis: forecasts suggest an additional 47,860 workers per year will be needed between 2025 and 2029 just to keep up with demand. In that context, electricians (who play a critical role in nearly every infrastructure, housing and retrofit project) are more essential than ever. 

That’s where apprenticeships come in. Whether you’re starting out in the trade or running an electrical business looking to grow, apprenticeships offer a smart, proven way to build the skills the industry desperately needs. 

For learners, they offer a hands-on route to becoming fully qualified, earning while training on real jobs. For employers, they’re a cost-effective way to shape new talent, future-proof your workforce, and keep your team competitive. Here's how apprenticeships can work for both electricians and businesses alike. 

What you’ll learn during an electrician apprenticeship 

Electrician apprenticeships cover everything you need to become fully qualified, from the basics of electrical systems to advanced installations and fault finding. You’ll learn through a mix of on-the-job experience and classroom-based training, giving you the technical knowledge and practical skills employers expect. 

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll typically cover: 

• Electrical principles and safety: Understanding how electricity works, how to use it safely, and how to comply with health and safety regulations. 

• Installing wiring and circuits: Learning how to install, connect, and test wiring systems in homes, businesses, and industrial settings. 

• Testing and fault-finding: Diagnosing issues, carrying out tests, and ensuring systems work safely and efficiently. 

• Using tools and technical drawings: Interpreting blueprints, wiring diagrams, and using specialist tools and equipment. 

• Regulations and compliance: Gaining a working knowledge of BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and other UK industry standards. 

• Customer service and teamwork: Developing professional behaviours, communication skills, and working effectively as part of a team on-site. 

Why aspiring electricians should choose an apprenticeship 

Earn while you learn  

Working as an electrician is varied, interesting and demanding and will give you a challenging yet rewarding career. You’ll need to be good at solving problems, structuring your workload and working as part of a team. In such a hands-on industry, nothing beats the practical experience you’ll gain on an apprenticeship, all while earning a wage and gaining a nationally recognised qualification to boot. Find out more about our apprenticeship standards.  

High quality training   

Apprentice electricians spend most of their time at work but as with any apprenticeship, 20% of the learning must be off-the-job. This is when you’ll learn the theory behind your practical skills.    

Most of our industry trained Learning Coaches have been apprentices themselves so they’ll know exactly what’s involved. And as we’re Ofsted rated ‘Good’, you can rest assured that the training is high quality and up to date.   

Increased job security  

If you’re already working, apprenticeships give employees the opportunity to expand their existing skills and develop new ones. Showing that you are committed to your business is always a big plus for managers. Any new skills that can make you more productive at work and also increase your performance will ultimately help your career.   

Get qualified without the debt 

University isn’t the only route to a successful career, and it’s definitely not the cheapest. Apprenticeships allow you to train without taking on thousands in student loans. You’ll earn a wage from day one, and all your training costs are covered by your employer and government funding. That means no tuition fees, no debt, and a nationally recognised qualification at the end. 

Learn from real-world experience 

You won’t be stuck in a classroom all day. As an apprentice, you’ll be out on-site, shadowing experienced electricians, installing systems, diagnosing faults, and getting your hands on the tools daily. You’ll see what the job is really like, its pressures, routines, and rewards - and you’ll pick up the kind of experience employers actually value. 

Build in-demand skills for life 

Electricians aren’t going out of style any time soon. With the rise of smart homes, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems, the industry is constantly evolving. Apprenticeships make sure you stay on the cutting edge, equipping you with up-to-date technical skills, safety knowledge, and green tech awareness that keep your CV relevant for years to come. 

Open doors to further progression 

Completing an apprenticeship doesn’t lock you into one job, it opens the door to more. Once qualified, you can choose to specialise, become self-employed, or move into roles like site supervisor or electrical engineer. Some apprentices even go on to run their own businesses. Whatever path you take, an apprenticeship gives you a solid platform to build from. 

Why businesses should hire an apprentice electrician 

If you’re an electrician thinking about taking on an apprenticeship, there are so many benefits for you and your business.   

Grow your own talent  

Apprenticeships enable employers to grow their own talent, ensuring that the business develops staff who fit with the company’s ethos, values and practices. An apprentice could be a future leader, and with apprenticeships standards teaching current industry best practice, you can be sure that skills are relevant and compliant. We can even match you up with potential employees using our apprenticeship recruitment service.  

Access to funding  

From sole traders and SMEs to larger employers, any type of business in the UK can use apprenticeship schemes to recruit a new member of staff or upskill an existing employee, however, the processes and available funding varies slightly.   

Learn more: The Importance of Upskilling Employees 

Bridge the skills gap  

Apprenticeships are a brilliant way to fill skills gaps among your existing team. While apprentices are trained across all areas, as an employer you can focus your apprentice’s practical experience to where your business needs it the most. This will ensure that you can deliver a full range of services to meet any client requests.   

Improve staff retention and loyalty 

Bringing in apprentices helps build a team that stays. Apprentices who are trained in-house often feel more committed to the business that invested in them. They understand your systems, your standards, and your culture. That loyalty can translate into long-term retention, reducing recruitment costs and keeping your operations running smoothly. 

Shape future leaders 

Apprenticeships can be used to develop leadership and management skills within your existing team. Whether you're preparing someone for a supervisory role or grooming a future site manager, structured training helps staff take on more responsibility with confidence and competence. 

Learn more: Apprenticeship Interview Questions: Tips for Employers 

Stay competitive in a changing market 

With new regulations, technologies, and sustainability goals affecting how electrical businesses operate, ongoing training is essential. Apprenticeships keep your team aligned with current industry standards, helping your business stay competitive, win contracts, and meet client expectations with confidence. 

Boost your reputation 

Taking on apprentices shows that your business is committed to growth, skills development, and giving back to the community. It sends a positive message to clients, partners, and local networks, and can even help when tendering for work that requires evidence of social value or community investment. 

Learn more: Benefits of Apprenticeships for Employers 

Choose Total People as your apprenticeship provider 

Whether you're an aspiring electrician ready to kick-start your career or an employer looking to strengthen your team, Total People makes apprenticeships simple, supported, and successful. With expert training, industry-experienced coaches, and a hands-on approach that works, we’ll help you build skills that last and teams that deliver. Contact our team today or explore our engineering apprenticeships.