Competent Person Scheme Changes: What They Mean for New and Existing Electricians 

The UK electrical industry has always placed safety, standards, and competence at its core. Over the years, various schemes and regulations have been introduced to make sure that anyone carrying out electrical work is properly trained and accountable. One of the most significant f rameworks is the Competent Person Scheme (CPS), which allows qualified electricians to self-certify their work in line with building regulations. 

In September 2021, the entry requirements for joining and maintaining membership of a CPS were updated. These changes affect both new applicants and those already registered. For anyone considering a career in electrics, or for existing electricians who want to stay compliant, understanding these changes is essential. 

This article explores what the updates mean, why the NVQ Level 3 qualification is now central to the process, and how learners and employers can prepare for the future. 

Why the CPS Matters 

A Competent Person Scheme is designed to ensure that electrical installations are carried out to the highest standards. By joining a CPS such as NICEIC or ELECSA, an electrician can sign off their own work without needing to involve local authority building control. This makes life simpler for both customers and tradespeople, while providing reassurance that installations are safe and compliant. 

With the latest changes, the industry is making a strong statement: short courses or fragmented certificates are no longer considered enough to prove competence. Instead, the focus is now firmly on full qualifications such as the NVQ Level 3 in Electrotechnical Installation or Maintenance, backed up by practical evidence and a recognised end-point assessment. 

What Changed in September 2021? 

From 1st September 2021, CPS providers began implementing updated criteria in line with the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS). The key changes include: 

• NVQ Level 3 requirement: All new applicants must now hold a full NVQ Level 3 qualification. Short courses or standalone certificates are no longer accepted as the main proof of competence. 

• More stringent evidence for existing members: Current registrants must show stronger evidence of ongoing CPD, proper supervision of staff, and appropriate insurance cover. 

• Qualified Supervisor (QS) focus: In larger companies, at least one QS must hold an NVQ Level 3. Other employees can work under their supervision, but the QS is ultimately responsible for compliance. 

These updates have raised the bar for what it means to be part of a Competent Person Scheme, ensuring that everyone registered has both the knowledge and the experience to deliver safe electrical work. 

Impact on Existing Electricians 

For electricians already working in the industry, these changes may feel like an extra hurdle. However, they also bring clear benefits. By making the NVQ Level 3 the benchmark qualification, the industry is strengthening its reputation and protecting long-term career prospects. 

Existing electricians may need to: 

• Provide more detailed CPD records to show they are staying up to date. 

• Ensure that apprentices or less-qualified staff are properly supervised. 

• Demonstrate adequate insurance cover for the type of work they undertake. 

• Consider topping up qualifications by enrolling on an Experienced Worker NVQ route if they do not yet hold a Level 3. 

For those who want to further prove their competence, courses such as the 2391 course in inspection and testing remain valuable additions to a CV. 

What This Means for New Entrants 

For anyone thinking about starting a career as an electrician, the message is now very clear: you need to be prepared to complete a structured programme leading to the NVQ Level 3 and AM2 assessment. 

The good news is that this pathway is well established. Many learners start with a foundation qualification such as the c&g 2365 Level 2 Diploma, progress to Level 3, and then build their on-site portfolio before taking the AM2. This route mirrors the traditional apprenticeship model, but it can be a dapted for adult learners or career changers who want to self-fund their training. 

By following this route, new entrants can be confident that they will meet CPS requirements when the time comes to register. 

The Four Main Routes to Becoming a Qualified Electrician 

For clarity, there are now four widely recognised pathways into the industry: 

1. New Entrants – 4 Steps Programme 
   A structured route including Levels 2 and 3, the NVQ, and AM2. Designed for career changers who want to invest in their training. 
   
   
2. Apprenticeship Programme 
   Open to learners aged 16 and over, this funded route also includes the AM2S end-point assessment. 
   
   
3. Experienced Worker NVQ 
   Aimed at those with 5+ years of industry experience who need to formalise their qualifications. Includes the AM2E. 
   
   
4. NVQ Level 3 (Step 4 entry) 
   For those who have already completed Level 3 in college or with another provider and want to complete their NVQ and AM2. 

All of these routes align with the latest CPS and industry standards, ensuring learners can eventually work towards JIB Gold Card status. 

The Push for Higher Standards 

It’s worth remembering why these changes have been introduced. In the past, some individuals e ntered the industry through very short courses or limited certification. While these options offered a quick entry point, they often failed to provide the depth of training needed to ensure safety. 

The new requirements are designed to prevent unqualified individuals from carrying out potentially dangerous work. For customers, it means more confidence in the tradespeople they hire. For electricians, it means stronger recognition of their skills and greater protection for their careers. 

Training Locations and Accessibility 

Training opportunities are not limited to one part of the UK. Learners can now access programmes across many regions, including Electrician Courses Handsworth and Electrician Courses Derby. This regional spread makes it easier for both new entrants and experienced electricians to find the right course close to home. 

Accessibility is a key factor in helping more people enter the trade and stay up to date with the latest regulations.

Corporate and Online Learning 

The pandemic accelerated the growth of online education. Many training providers, including Elec Training, have expanded their eLearning options, offering everything from online refreshers to corporate CPD packages. 

For employers, this is an efficient way to keep staff compliant without disrupting their working schedules. For learners, it provides flexibility to study around existing commitments. 

Linking Training to Career Outcomes 

Becoming a qualified electrician is not just about meeting regulatory standards. It also opens up stable and rewarding career opportunities. 

Electricians with full qualifications can access better roles, earn higher pay, and move towards specialisms such as renewable energy, inspection and testing, or EV charging. Understanding jib electrician rates is an important part of planning your future in the trade, as wages are directly tied to qualification levels and experience. 

Why This Matters for the Future 

With the government’s focus on net zero targets, the growth of renewable energy, and the electrification of heating and transport, the demand for competent electricians has never been higher. The CPS changes are not simply about raising the bar — they are about future-proofing the industry and ensuring the workforce is ready for these challenges. 

By requiring NVQ Level 3 as the baseline, the industry is investing in higher standards of safety and professionalism. 

Next Steps 

Whether you are an existing electrician looking to adapt to the new requirements, or a career changer thinking of entering the industry, the pathway is clear. Completing your Level 2, Level 3, and NVQ is now essential. 

Elec Training provides structured programmes to help learners at every stage, from beginners to experienced electricians. You can find out more about courses, including inspection and testing, apprenticeships, and NVQs, at https://elec.training/. 

If you’re ready to take the next step, explore your local training options and speak to a course adviser about the route that best suits your goals. 

FAQs on the Competent Person Scheme (CPS) for Electricians in the UK 

1 – What is the Competent Person Scheme (CPS) and why does it matter for electricians?

The Competent Person Scheme (CPS) is a UK government initiative that allows certified individuals and businesses in the building trade, such as electricians, to self-certify certain types of building work as compliant with the Building Regulations, without needing to notify local authorities. For electricians, CPS membership (via schemes like NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA) is crucial as it enables legal self-certification of notifiable electrical work (e.g., new circuits, consumer units) under Part P, saving time and fees for clients while demonstrating professional competence. It matters for career progression, as it allows independent operation, access to domestic/commercial jobs, and compliance with insurance requirements, reducing liability risks. 

2 – What were the key changes to CPS entry requirements introduced in September 2021?

Key changes to CPS entry requirements in September 2021 included stricter qualification standards: short courses, auditable evidence, and certificates of competence were no longer accepted as proof of competence. New applicants must hold a full NVQ Level 3 qualification (e.g., C&G 2357 or equivalent), alongside the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382) and relevant inspection/testing quals. Existing members faced phased reviews, with emphasis on ongoing CPD and evidence of competence. These updates aimed to raise industry standards and ensure safer installations. 

3 – Why is the NVQ Level 3 now mandatory for new CPS applicants?

The NVQ Level 3 (e.g., C&G 2357 in Electrotechnical Services) is mandatory for new CPS applicants to ensure proven competence through assessed on-the-job performance, portfolio evidence, and practical skills, aligning with Building Regulations and BS 7671 standards. It replaces less rigorous short courses, reducing risks of substandard work and enhancing public safety. This change, effective from September 2021, addresses industry gaps and supports professionalization, as CPS schemes like NICEIC require it for self-certification. 

4 – What additional evidence do existing CPS members need to provide to maintain registration?

Existing CPS members must provide ongoing evidence of competence to maintain registration, including: records of CPD (e.g., 18th Edition updates, inspection/testing refreshers), work portfolios, insurance details, and compliance audits (e.g., annual assessments by schemes like NICEIC). They may need to demonstrate NVQ Level 3 equivalence or complete gap training if lacking formal quals. Schemes require proof of safe practices, customer complaints resolution, and adherence to BS 7671, with re-assessments every 1–3 years. 

5 – How do the new rules affect Qualified Supervisors (QS) in larger companies?

The new CPS rules affect Qualified Supervisors (QS) in larger companies by requiring them to hold full NVQ Level 3 and oversee compliant work, with schemes now emphasizing QS accountability for team competence. In multi-person firms, the QS must ensure all operatives meet standards, potentially needing additional training or audits. This impacts larger companies by increasing administrative burdens but enhances quality control, as schemes like NICEIC require QS to sign off on self-certified work. 

6 – What options exist for experienced electricians who don’t yet hold an NVQ Level 3?

Experienced electricians without NVQ Level 3 can pursue the Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) route, which evaluates skills through portfolios, assessments, and AM2 tests (6–12 months, leading to NVQ equivalence). Other options include bridging courses or full NVQ enrollment via providers like Elec Training. This allows CPS compliance without starting from scratch, provided they have 3–5 years’ verifiable experience. 

7 – How do the changes impact career changers or new entrants to the industry?

The 2021 CPS changes impact career changers and new entrants by raising entry barriers, requiring full NVQ Level 3 for membership, which extends training time (1–4 years) and costs (£3,000–£7,000). Short courses no longer suffice, pushing entrants towards apprenticeships or fast-tracks, potentially deterring some but ensuring higher standards. New entrants benefit from structured routes but face delays in independent work. 

8 – What are the four main recognised routes to becoming CPS-compliant as a qualified electrician?

The four main recognised routes to CPS-compliant qualification are: 

• Apprenticeship Route: 3–4 years, employer-led, leading to NVQ Level 3/AM2. 

• Full-Time Education Route: College diplomas (C&G 2365 Level 2/3) + NVQ via placements. 

• Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) Route: For 3–5 years’ experience, portfolio-based to NVQ equivalence. 

• Adult Learner/Fast-Track Route: Self-funded diplomas + NVQ/AM2 for career changers. All lead to NVQ Level 3 for CPS membership. 

9 – How do these CPS updates link to JIB Gold Card status and long-term career progression?

CPS updates link to JIB Gold Card status by requiring similar competence levels (NVQ Level 3/AM2), as the Gold Card (via ECS) signifies qualified status for unsupervised work, often a prerequisite for CPS schemes. Updates enhance career progression by enforcing CPD, leading to higher JIB grades (e.g., Approved Electrician, £18.78/hour) and specializations (EV, solar), boosting earnings to £40,000–£60,000. It promotes long-term progression to QS/supervisor roles, with Gold Card enabling scheme registration and net-zero projects. 

10 – Where can electricians access regional training (e.g., Electrician Courses Handsworth or Electrician Courses Derby) to meet the new requirements?

For Handsworth (Birmingham): Elec Training provides NVQ/EV courses.