Becoming an electrician in the UK involves a synthesis of training, experience, and a concluding evaluation, typically achievable through two main paths:

1. Completing an electrical apprenticeship over the course of 3 to 4 years.
2. Progressively accomplishing the requirements over 2 to 3 years, segmented into smaller steps like attaining a Diploma, Technical Certificates, NVQ, and AM2.

Each pathway incorporates the same critical elements but structures them differently. The apprenticeship approach disseminates the training and practical experience over 4 years, while the Diploma route prioritizes training and permits the candidate to augment their skills with an NVQ once they’re engaged in the industry.

How can I train with a diploma, NVQ, and AM2?

At Cranbrook College, our approved electrical contractor pathway unfolds as follows:

1. Step 1: Domestic Electrical Skills Course (1-month duration)
2. Step 2: Level 2 2365 Diploma (This takes 3 months, structured as 2 weeks of coursework followed by a 2-week break)
3. Step 3: Level 3 2365 Diploma (Another 3 months, structured similarly to Step 2)
4. Step 4: Level 2357 NVQ (This takes 1 to 2 years and is typically completed while you are working)

Ordinarily, our students complete the first three steps within 6 to 7 months and are then qualified to work as electrician’s mate. Remarkably, about a third of our students secure employment during their training, and up to 90% of them find work within 6 months of completing their Diploma.

Can I focus solely on pursuing a career as a domestic electrician?

A Domestic Installer is a professional who specialises in electrical work for residential properties such as houses, flats, and bungalows. The industry has traditionally had schemes for individuals with specific skill sets and training to focus solely on this domain. Certain scheme providers, such as the NICEIC, manage domestic installer programs and validate the abilities, knowledge, and training of these specialists. However, the admission criteria underwent changes in September 2021, and we recommend that anyone looking to enter the field should anticipate completing one of the aforementioned routes to ensure a sustainable career.

It’s important to note that, in the foreseeable future, our 4-Step program will offer a pathway to become a Domestic Installer and register with a Competent Persons Scheme. After completing up to Step 3, you can undertake a Domestic Installer NVQ program as Step 4, which we aim to offer in the upcoming year.

What are the City & Guilds credentials required for a career as an electrician?

For those opting for the apprenticeship pathway, the necessary City & Guilds qualification is the Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification (C&G 5357).

However, if you decide to follow the Diploma & NVQ route, the required City & Guilds qualifications include:

1. C&G 2365 Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures)
2. C&G 2365 Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations (Buildings and Structures)
3. C&G 2357 Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Technology

What is the duration required to qualify as an electrician?

Typically, an apprenticeship program takes about 3 to 4 years to complete. However, if you choose the Diploma & NVQ pathway, the timeline can differ, but the majority of individuals complete it within 2 to 3 years.

Is it possible to pursue a career as an electrician without attending college?

Indeed. Training as an electrician without attending a traditional college is feasible. You can receive your training through specialized institutions like Cranbrook College, which focus on educating adult learners.