Electrotechnical qualification (installation) Level 3

Course overview

This apprenticeship is ideal for people who have an interest and aptitude for work within the electrical industry.

To be a fully qualified electrician it is necessary to have an NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical Systems. This apprenticeship will incorporate this relevant NVQ into the training, whilst offering the chance to earn while you learn. With more technology and development of green energy systems the demand for skilled electricians is incredibly high.

Apprentices are employed with local employers and work in a variety of workplaces, from domestic houses to large industrial units. Some Electricians may be required to travel during the week, so apprentices must be prepared to work away from home.

Each apprentice has a nominated Business Development Officer / Assessor who will provide co-ordination between the employer, the College, and the apprentice, giving continuity, mentoring and support throughout the course.

What qualifications will I gain?

Candidates will achieve the Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification (Installation).

Standards

Apprentices must meet all the core requirements of the standards, samples of which are shown below. You can view the full standards on the government's website.

Knowledge and Skills

• Understand and apply the principles, practices and legislation for the termination and connection of conductors, cables and cords in electrical systems.
• Understand and apply the practices and procedures for the preparation and installation of wiring systems and electrotechnical equipment in buildings, structures and the environment.
• Understand and apply the principles, practices and legislation for the inspection, testing, commissioning and certification of electrotechnical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment.
• Understand and apply the principles, practices and legislation for diagnosing and correcting electrical faults in electrotechnical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment.
• Understand and apply the electrical principles associated with the design, building, installation and maintenance of electrical equipment and systems
• Oversee and organise the work environment.

Behaviours

• Work reliably and effectively without close supervision.
• Accept responsibility for the work of themselves and others.
• Accept, allocate and supervise technical and other tasks.
• Use oral, written and electronic methods for the communication of technical and other information.
• Work effectively with colleagues, other trades, clients, suppliers and the public.
• Undertake work in a way that contributes to sustainable development.

How will I be trained?

Apprenticeships are designed with the help of the employers in the industry, so they offer a structured programme that takes you through the skills you need to do a job well. There are targets and checks to make sure that your employer is supporting you and you are making progress.

As an employee you will be in employment for most of your time as most of the training takes place on the job. The rest takes place at HLC. You can complete this off-the-job training on day release. All the things you study at college during this time will be useful in your job and help you to succeed in your future career. Your employment will be for a minimum 30 hours per week.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will take place through theory knowledge with practical training at college and at the workplace, as well as a portfolio of evidence. The first year of your apprenticeship will see you attending college every Friday for the academic year. During which you will undertake multiple theory and practical exams.

Second to Fourth year will see you construct a comprehensive portfolio, containing your own written job reports (known as ‘write-ups’) supported by photographic and documented evidence. Your designated Business Development Officer / Assessor will also attend your workplace for up to 3 on-site assessments, which will be recorded and supplemented into your portfolio.

The portfolio has now gone fully digital so as to be readily available anytime. Successful completion of your portfolio will grant you access to the final assessment, known as the AM2S, a challenging 3-day assessment currently undertaken at Shrewsbury Colleges Group.

Entry requirements

• You would normally be expected to have 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including maths and English)
• Successful completion of a Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installation

Progression

There are always new things to learn as an electrician and the potential to gain more money and responsibility with professional development courses. On completion of an NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical services, electricians can go on to complete various more specific qualifications. This includes City & Guilds certificates in Inspection, Testing and Certification of Installations, Wiring Regulations and In-service Inspection and Testing of Electrical Equipment. It is also useful to complete a short training scheme known as Part P which allows electricians to certify all their own electrical work, rather than requiring a contractor or building inspector to approve their work.

Key facts

Campus: Hereford, Folly Lane

Minimum Age: 16 to apply for the one-year Level 2 diploma (mandatory)

Duration:

• Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installation (mandatory requirement to gain entry): 1 year
• Level 3 Apprenticeship: 2-4 years

Typical Employment:
Opportunities range from working for small electrical contractors to large multi nationals - covering a wide range of social, domestic and commercial properties.

Contact

Telephone: 0800 032 1986
Email: apprenticeships@hlnsc.ac.uk
Email: electricalapprenticeship@hlcollege.ac.uk