If you’re thinking about becoming an electrician, it’s important to know which courses you need to take. This guide will explain the key courses, why they are important, and the different awarding bodies. We’ll also show you how Total Skills can help you with their range of courses.
Essential Courses for Electricians
1. City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations
This is the starting point for anyone looking to become an electrician. The City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma covers the basics of electrical installation, including wiring, circuits, and safety. It gives you a solid foundation in electrical theory and practical skills.
2. City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations
After completing the Level 2 Diploma, you can move on to the Level 3 Diploma. This course goes deeper into more complex electrical systems and installations. It prepares you for higher-level tasks and responsibilities, such as designing and installing advanced electrical systems.
3. 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (City & Guilds 2382)
The 18th Edition course covers the latest IET Wiring Regulations, which are the rules for electrical installation in the UK. This qualification is essential for all electricians, making sure they know the current safety standards and practices.
4. Inspection and Testing (City & Guilds 2391-52)
The City & Guilds 2391-52 course teaches you how to inspect and test electrical installations. This qualification is highly valued because it shows that you can safely and accurately check the condition of electrical installations.
5. NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical Services
The NVQ Level 3 is a work-based qualification that proves you are competent in electrical work. It involves gathering evidence from your workplace and completing an AM2 assessment. This qualification is essential to become a fully qualified electrician.
Optional Specialised Courses
1. Solar PV Installation
With the focus on renewable energy, the Solar PV Installation course teaches you how to install and maintain solar panel systems. This specialisation opens job opportunities in the growing green energy sector.
2. Battery Storage Systems
The Battery Storage Systems course trains you to install and manage battery storage solutions for renewable energy systems. This skill is becoming more valuable as energy storage becomes more important for sustainability.
3. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Installation
As electric vehicles become more popular, the need for electricians to install and maintain EV charging points is growing. This course gives you the knowledge and skills to work in this fast-growing market.
Understanding Awarding Bodies
In the UK, several organisations provide certifications for electrical courses. The most well-known are City & Guilds, EAL, LCL Awards, and BPEC.
No matter which awarding body you choose, all qualifications are regulated by OFQUAL (The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation). OFQUAL ensures that the courses meet specific standards of quality, so you can be confident that a qualification from any of these bodies is recognised and respected.
Total Skills: Your Partner in Electrical Training
Total Skills is committed to helping you achieve your career goals with a wide range of electrical courses. Here’s how Total Skills can support you:
1. Flexible Learning Options
Total Skills offers flexible learning options, including online, home study, and classroom-based courses. Their hybrid learning model combines online theory with practical training, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
2. Experienced Instructors
Learn from experienced trainers who are dedicated to your success. Total Skills’ instructors offer personalised guidance and support, ensuring you gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel.
3. Affordable Payment Plans
Total Skills offers affordable payment plans, including interest-free options with no credit checks. This financial flexibility makes it easier for you to invest in your future.
4. Comprehensive Course Offerings
Total Skills provides all the essential courses you need to become a qualified electrician, including:
• City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations
• City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations
• 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (City & Guilds 2382)
• Inspection and Testing (City & Guilds 2391-52)
• NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical Services
In addition, Total Skills offers specialised courses in Solar PV Installation, Battery Storage Systems, and EV Charger Installation, ensuring you have the opportunity to expand your skills and career prospects.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the different courses and qualifications, this guide provides clear information to help you navigate your options. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to specialise further, Total Skills offers the right courses to set you on the path to success.