How To Become A Qualified Electrician in the UK

The UK still faces a chronic shortage of skilled sparkies, and that gap shows in project schedules and pay packets. Whether you are 16, 36 or 56, there is a recognised pathway that can turn your interest in electrics into a Gold-Card career. Below we unpack the four routes endorsed by the Electrical Skills Partnership (TESP) — and show how Elec Training can support each one. 

1 | Apprenticeship: earn while you learn 

A funded apprenticeship remains the gold standard. You work four days on site and spend one day at our centre; wages land in your bank from week one. 

• Installation & Maintenance Electrician (C&G 5357) – 4 years 

• Domestic Electrician (C&G 5393) – 3 years 

Off-the-job theory, on-the-job evidence, and a final AM2 assessment combine to unlock the ECS Gold Card. If you live in the West Midlands, our weekday electrician courses Birmingham cohort means minimal travel. 

2 | Diploma ➜ NVQ fast track 

Ideal for adult learners who can self-fund study blocks before jumping onto site. 

1. Level 2 Diploma (C&G 2365-02) 
   
   
2. Level 3 Diploma (C&G 2365-03) 
   
   
3. Paid employment in the trade 
   
   
4. NVQ Level 3 portfolio + AM2 

Motivated candidates often wrap Levels 2 & 3 into one fast-track electrician course, cutting classroom time to under a year. 

3 | Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) 

Five years on the tools but no formal Level 3? The EWA maps your real-world skills to the same standards as an apprenticeship. 

• Site-based portfolio verified by an assessor 

• Wiring-Regs currency and inspection/testing ticket required 

• Finished by an AM2E competence test 

Pass and you gain the same industry status as a time-served apprentice. 

4 | Full-time education (16-19) 

School-leavers without an employer can start with a classroom programme, collect foundation skills, then transfer to an apprenticeship or NVQ job once hired. Funding is usually available up to age 19. 

Cross-cutting essentials 

 
Next steps 

• Browse the full suite of electrical training options. 

• Book a skills-scan call to confirm the best route for your experience level. 

• Reserve a course date and start turning theory into paid competence. 

The industry needs qualified electricians; choose the pathway that fits your life and let’s get you on site.