www.heatingandventilating.net


INDUSTRY INSIGHT


Above: Harry Budd, marketing director at Logic4training


New routes into the electrical trade


As demand for electricians continues to grow, training pathways are evolving to accommodate the requirements of a more diverse workforce. Harry Budd, marketing director at Logic4training, discusses career opportunities in a low carbon future and explains the routes to qualification outside of apprenticeships


T


he UK’s push towards Net Zero is changing how we use energy, from the way we heat and power our homes to the way we work and


travel. It goes deeper than swapping gas boilers for heat pumps, or installing solar panels, it represents a fundamental change that will shape future generations, bringing opportunities for those ready to embrace a sector at the forefront of technological progress. To meet projected demand, the industry needs 100,000 new electrical workers by 2032. Apprenticeships are a good fit for many new entrants and small businesses, however, the changing landscape has given rise to alternative routes to NVQ that may better meet the needs of some learners, particularly those with transferable skills or related experience.


Skills for a modern industry


To thrive in the electrical sector, new entrants need more than just technical qualifications. Practical skills are essential, together with sharp problem- solving abilities and a keen eye for detail. Learners need to be comfortable communicating with customers and working as part of a team. Safety is absolutely critical, so good colour vision for wiring and installation is a must.


Consider your end goal


Some electricians focus on domestic work, handling rewiring, socket changes and fuse box repairs in homes. Others work on large projects, keeping electrical systems running in factories or offices. There’s also a growing need for specialists in renewable energy, including solar PV, battery storage and EV charging points. Each route presents different challenges and rewards, but they all require a solid base of knowledge and recognised qualifications. Before choosing a route to market, consider your


goals. Do you want electrical skills to add to your experience in plumbing, HVAC or heating? Or do you want to qualify as a full electrician? You’ll also need to know about Competent Persons Schemes and the industry’s gold standard, the ECS Gold Card, which shows you’re qualified to work unsupervised and sign off installations. For most, the NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Electrical


Installations is the benchmark. Completing this, plus the AM2 assessment, lets you apply for the ECS Gold Card. The good news is you don’t have to follow a traditional apprenticeship if it doesn’t suit your circumstances, there are flexible ways to reach this level.


Flexible pathways


Electrical apprenticeships combine real-world experience with classroom study over two to four years, but they’re not the only option. The industry is keen to attract school leavers, career changers and those with experience in related trades, so alternative routes have been developed to suit a wider range of backgrounds. Many modern training courses mix classroom learning with hands-on practice, on purpose-built training rigs and in the workplace. Specialist providers may offer part-time courses, which allows learners to balance training with other commitments. For employers wanting to grow their installation teams, supporting staff through these flexible pathways makes upskilling more accessible than ever.


Become an electrician


Here’s a typical path for new starters or those upskilling from related industries: The foundation (Level 2 Electrical Diploma) - Begin with the City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installations (2365-02). This course covers the basics—electrical science, wiring and safety— and lays the foundation for more advanced training. It’s recognised, respected and the first step towards the ECS Gold Card. Advanced theory (Level 3 Electrical Diploma)


- Move on to the City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installations (2365-03). This builds on Level 2, covering more complex systems, fault finding and testing. It prepares you for work in homes, businesses and industry, and is recognised by the Joint Industry Board (JIB). Real-world proof (Level 3 Electrical NVQ) - Get


real-world experience and complete the City & Guilds Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrical Installation and Maintenance (2357). Unlike earlier diplomas, this is assessed in the workplace. You’ll collect evidence and be guided by an assessor, showing


your competence on the job over a period of 6 to 18 months.


Final test of competence (AM2) - Take the AM2 Assessment. This demanding practical exam, which lasts about three days, is the final test before becoming fully qualified. It checks your ability to install, commission, fault-find and work safely, meeting national standards. Once you’ve completed these steps, you can apply


for the ECS Gold Card and register with Competent Persons Schemes, like NICEIC or NAPIT, opening up a range of job opportunities.


Look beyond the basics


These qualifications and accreditations serve as a strong foundation for expansion into renewables, including solar PV, battery storage and EV charging installation, when the time is right. Since last year, candidates are required to hold a Level 3 Electrotechnical qualification (NVQ) and the current BS 7671 as a pre-requisite to upskilling into these fields. Employers can help future-proof their business by supporting staff to pursue these extra qualifications, keeping their team ahead of industry change


Choose the right provider


Ideally, visit training centres in person before you commit. Other things to consider include: Is it practical? Look for courses that prioritise hands-on training, avoiding those that rely too heavily on online modules. What will you be qualified to do? Make sure


you understand the legal scope of work each course covers, from domestic jobs to full system maintenance. Are the qualifications recognised? Stick to courses


certified by respected bodies like City & Guilds or LCL Awards, so your qualification is valid everywhere. The electrical sector sits at the heart of the UK’s


decarbonisation plans and offers stable, rewarding careers for those ready to upskill. Whether you’re starting out, moving from another trade or developing your team, there are quality training pathways beyond the traditional apprenticeship. By prioritising hands-on experience and industry-recognised qualifications, you’ll be well placed to meet the demands of a fast-changing market and play your part in a greener future for all.


DOWNLOAD THE HVR APP NOW April 2026 23


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32