Electrical Upskilling & Reskilling After the Pandemic
The end of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme in September 2021 was a turning point for the UK labour market. As furlough wound down, many workers faced uncertainty, redundancy, or a shift into entirely new sectors. At the same time, the construction and electrical industries were already struggling with shortages of skilled workers.
This has created a unique moment for both career changers and existing electricians: a chance to reskill or upskill into a trade with long-term demand, solid pay prospects, and a clear progression route.
At Elec Training, we’ve seen growing demand for structured training pathways that meet this challenge head-on. From the 4 Steps Programme for new entrants to advanced courses for experienced electricians, we are helping learners build s ecure futures in a sector that urgently needs more people.
Reskilling: A Route Out of Uncertainty
Government research in 2021 highlighted the pandemic’s lasting impact on employment, with some industries slower to recover. Meanwhile, the UK’s commitment to “Build Back Better” and achieve Net Zero targets placed electricians at the centre of national strategy.
Reskilling into the electrical industry offers several advantages:
- High demand: Newspapers reported the worst shortage of electricians since the late 1990s.
- Career stability: Electrical work is essential across housing, infrastructure, and renewable projects.
- Structured pathways: Adults can follow recognised routes that mirror traditional apprenticeships.
- Strong earning potential: Pay is linked to qualifications, with JIB rates rising in line with skills.
The 4 Steps Programme
The 4 Steps Programme developed by Elec Training is specifically designed for adult learners and career changers. It mirrors the apprenticeship model but is tailored to those self-funding their training.
The four stages typically include:
- Level 2 Diploma (C&G 2365-02).
- Level 3 Diploma (C&G 2365-03).
- NVQ Level 3 (C&G 2357 or 2346 route, depending on experience).
- AM2 assessment — the final test of occupational competence.
This route is widely recognised as the gold standard for career changers, providing both the knowledge and practical experience needed to become a fully qualified electrician. For learners already employed in the sector, it can often transition into a funded apprenticeship if an employer is secured.
For those exploring regional options, see Electrician Courses in Leicestershire for availability in the East Midlands, or Electrician Courses Walsall for West Midlands learners.
Upskilling for Existing Electricians
The pandemic also pushed many existing electricians to reassess their careers. Some sought more security, while others looked to expand into new areas aligned with renewable technology and compliance. Upskilling has become a priority for those wanting to future-proof their careers.
NVQ for Experienced Workers
The C&G 2346-03 Experienced Worker NVQ is ideal for electricians with five or more years’ experience who never completed an apprenticeship. Delivered partly online, it allows learners to gather portfolio evidence while working, culminating in the AM2E assessment. This route provides formal recognition of competence and access to the ECS Gold Card.
EV Charging Courses
Demand for electric vehicle charging point installers continues to grow, with infrastructure expansion outpacing the available workforce. Completing an ev charger installation course ensures electricians can capitalise on this fast-growing market.
Inspection & Testing
For those wanting to prove competence in verifying installations, the city & guilds 2391 is the recognised benchmark. Covering initial verification and periodic inspection, it is highly valued by employers and clients alike.
Other Upskilling Routes
Additional pathways include:
- 18th Edition Wiring Regulations – ensuring compliance with BS 7671.
- PAT Testing – portable appliance testing services.
- Solar PV installation – meeting demand for renewable energy.
- Electrical Design courses – expanding into more advanced roles.
The Importance of Level 3 Training
For both reskilling and upskilling, Level 3 remains the cornerstone. Employers and industry bodies expect electricians to hold qualifications at this level before taking on higher responsibility or specialist tasks.
The 2365 level 3 Diploma provides the theoretical and practical foundation needed before progressing to the NVQ and AM2. Whether you are a career changer starting from scratch or a learner moving on from Level 2, achieving this qualification is essential.
Regional Access to Training
Training doesn’t need to be limited to London or Birmingham. Elec Training offers options across the Midlands and beyond, making it easier to b alance study with other commitments. Popular locations include:
- Electrician Courses in Leicestershire – covering the East Midlands region.
- Electrician Courses Walsall – serving the Black Country and West Midlands.
This local access means learners can progress through their training without relocating or excessive travel.
Why Elec Training?
At Elec Training, we provide structured programmes designed for both beginners and experienced workers. Our 4 Steps Programme is one of the most accessible routes for adult learners, while our specialist upskilling courses ensure electricians remain competitive in a changing market.
We also prioritise flexibility: combining classroom, online, and workplace learning so learners can train around their circumstances. With industry-standard qualifications and experienced tutors, we give every learner the tools they need to succeed.
The pandemic disrupted many careers, but it also opened doors to new opportunities. For those ready to reskill, the 4 Steps Programme offers a proven route into a secure and r ewarding trade. For existing electricians, now is the time to upskill and expand into areas like EV installation, inspection and testing, or renewables.
The UK’s skills shortage means demand will remain strong for years to come. By investing in training now, learners can build stable careers while contributing to the country’s green recovery.
Contact Elec Training today to discuss your options, whether you are starting fresh or looking to progress your existing career.
FAQs on Reskilling as an Electrician in the UK (September 2025)
Below is a comprehensive FAQ addressing your questions on reskilling as an electrician, including post-pandemic demand, training pathways, and opportunities, based on current industry data as of September 15, 2025.
Why did the pandemic increase the demand for electricians in the UK?
The COVID-19 pandemic increased demand for electricians by 20–65% in key regions, driven by heightened home-based activities and renovations. With 45% of UK workers shifting to remote setups, households needed electrical upgrades for home offices, enhanced lighting, and IT infrastructure (e.g., additional sockets, cabling for video calls). Lockdowns spurred DIY and professional home improvements, including kitchen/bathroom rewires and garden electrics, while essential services like emergency repairs continued. In Northern Ireland, demand jumped 64.6% during the pandemic, and overall, more time at home amplified needs for maintenance and upgrades, creating a sustained boom in domestic work that persists into 2025.
What is the 4 Steps Programme, and how does it help career changers become electricians?
The 4 Steps Programme is an innovative reskilling pathway developed by Trade Skills 4U, mirroring a traditional electrical apprenticeship but tailored for adult career changers and mature learners (aged 25+ with no prior experience). It consists of four progressive stages over 1–2 years:
- Step 1: 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (3–5 days, foundational theory).
- Step 2: Level 2/3 Diploma in Electrical Installations (C&G 2365, 10–18 weeks, practical skills).
- Step 3: NVQ Level 3 via portfolio and work placement (6–12 months, on-site competency).
- Step 4: AM2 assessment and ECS Gold Card. It helps career changers by offering flexible, part-time/blended learning (£3,000–£7,000 total), guaranteed work placements as a mate (£20,000–£25,000 starting), and direct progression to qualified status, addressing the skills shortage without a full 3–4 year apprenticeship.
Do I need previous electrical experience to start reskilling after the pandemic?
No, you do not need previous electrical experience to start reskilling, as many post-pandemic programs are designed for complete beginners and career changers. Entry-level routes like the 4 Steps Programme or fast-track diplomas (C&G 2365 Level 2) require only basic literacy/numeracy (GCSE-equivalent) and age 18+. Skills Bootcamps (free, 4–16 weeks) target non-tradespeople, providing foundational training before NVQ. However, allied trades experience (e.g., plumbing, building) accelerates progress. The pandemic’s demand surge has opened more accessible pathways, with providers like Elec Training offering guaranteed placements to build experience on the job.
How long does it take to retrain fully and gain an ECS Gold Card?
Retraining fully to gain an ECS Gold Card typically takes 1–4 years, depending on the route:
- Fast-Track for Career Changers: 1–2 years (e.g., 4 Steps Programme: 3–6 months theory + 6–12 months NVQ/AM2; total £3,000–£7,000).
- Apprenticeship: 3–4 years (paid, on-job; ends with NVQ Level 3, AM2, and Gold Card).
- Experienced Worker Route: 6–12 months (EWA for 5+ years’ informal experience). The Gold Card requires NVQ Level 3, AM2/AM2E, 18th Edition, and H&S test. Post-pandemic flexibility (e.g., blended learning) shortens timelines; 2025 Bootcamps can fast-track to qualification in 4–16 weeks for basics, with full status in 1 year via placements.
What is the Experienced Worker NVQ (C&G 2346-03), and who is it for?
The C&G 2346-03 is a Level 3 NVQ Electrotechnical Experienced Worker Qualification, designed for mature electricians or career changers with at least 5 years’ practical experience in the industry (e.g., as a mate or self-taught) but no formal qualifications. It assesses competency via portfolio of work evidence, professional discussions, and practical tests (e.g., AM2E), leading to ECS Gold Card and JIB grading without full diplomas. It’s for those 25+ with informal skills, replacing the older 2356-99, and takes 6–12 months (£2,000–£4,000). Ideal for post-pandemic reskillers leveraging hands-on experience for quick recognition.
Which upskilling courses are most valuable for existing electricians (e.g., EV charging, inspection & testing, 18th Edition)?
For existing electricians, the most valuable upskilling courses in 2025 address the skills shortage in renewables and compliance:
- EV Charging (C&G 2921-34, 2–3 days, £400–£600): Essential for 300,000+ chargers by 2030; boosts earnings 20–30% via OZEV grants.
- Inspection & Testing (C&G 2391-52, 5–7 days, £800–£1,200): Critical for EICRs and renewables sign-off; enables supervisor roles (£5,000–£10,000/year extra).
- 18th Edition Amendment 2 Refresher (C&G 2382-22, 1 day/eLearning, £150–£300): Mandatory for BS 7671 compliance; prerequisite for EV/PV.
- Solar PV/Battery (C&G 2399/EESS, 3–5 days, £1,000–£1,500): High-demand for net-zero retrofits; MCS accreditation for grants. These CPD courses (2–7 days) future-proof careers, with 315% growth in green skills demand.
Why is a Level 3 qualification considered essential for electricians?
A Level 3 qualification (e.g., NVQ in Electrotechnical Services) is essential as it proves occupational competency for unsupervised work, ECS Gold Card, and scheme registration (NICEIC/NAPIT), enabling legal self-certification under Part P and BS 7671. It covers advanced installation, inspection, testing, and fault-finding—critical for safety and compliance in domestic/commercial projects. Without it, electricians are limited to supervised roles or face fines (£5,000+) for non-compliance. Post-pandemic, it’s key for renewables (EV/PV), where 66% of firms require Level 3 for hiring, unlocking £33,000–£60,000 salaries vs. £20,000–£25,000 for unqualified.
Can I complete parts of my reskilling or upskilling online, or is it all classroom-based?
Yes, you can complete significant parts of reskilling/upskilling online in 2025, with blended formats dominating:
- Reskilling (e.g., 4 Steps Programme): 40–60% online (theory, 18th Edition via eLearning), with in-person practicals/AM2 (1–2 weeks/year).
- Upskilling (CPD like EV/2391): 70–100% online for refreshers (e.g., 18th Edition, 4–6 hours self-paced), but practicals (testing/EV demos) require 1–2 centre days. Providers like Elec Training and Trade Skills 4U offer mobile-compatible platforms (6–12 months access), quizzes, and videos. Full NVQ portfolios can be submitted digitally, but AM2/AM2E is centre-based. This flexibility suits working adults, reducing commutes while ensuring hands-on competency.
Are there local training options in places like Leicestershire and Walsall to avoid long commutes?
Yes, local options in Leicestershire and Walsall (West Midlands) minimize commutes:
- Elec Training NVQ support, fast-tracks, and CPD (e.g., EV, £400–£600); guaranteed placements. elec.training.
How does training with Elec Training prepare learners for long-term stability and progression in the industry?
Elec Training prepares learners for stability and progression by offering accredited, flexible programs with guaranteed NVQ work placements, ensuring real-world experience amid the 100,000+ shortage. Routes include fast-tracks (1–2 years to Level 3/AM2), EWA for experienced workers (6–12 months), and CPD (EV/solar, 2–3 days) for upskilling, leading to ECS Gold Card and JIB grading (£33,000–£60,000 salaries). Benefits: 100% placement support, nationwide access (including Midlands), and green skills focus (e.g., Skills Bootcamps) for net-zero roles. This addresses post-pandemic demand, boosting employability 50% via MCS/OZEV, and supports self-employment or supervision for long-term security.
