career change

[Han_av18]

Hi, Im looking into training to become an electrician. I need to do it part time as I have other commitments which restrict me from doing a full time course or even an apprenticeship. I have been researching alot of information but am baffled about what everyone has said you need to become an electrician. If someone could tell me whats needed to become a qulified electrician it would be greatly appreicative. Also if anyone knows of any part time courses I could do to help me gain a qualification. Ive rang my local college and they werent very helpful IMHO and all they suggested was apprenticeships (unable to afford bills etc on apprentice wage)

 

[ezzzekiel]

currently 2330 level 3 followed by nvq3 - then add on 2391 and 2382 just to be on safe side, can be done over 3 years part time at college whilst gaining practical experience.

2330 and nvq3 about to replaced with one new shiney qualification

 

[Han_av18]

the college has their own workshop where you work on all the practical. Do you think this would be sufficient enough or should I look to do a work experience day with an employer?

Thanks for the reply.

 

[Guest123]

There is no substitute for onsite experience, no amount of "cubicle" practice will prepare you for working day to day on the various different environments that we do.

You really need to try and get in with a spark for regular work (one day just wont be anywhere near enough) otherwise you'll come to the end of your training and have all these pieces of paper but no-one will employ you as you have no on-site experience.

Just take a look at our "jobs" forum and the number of guys in the same position as you.

 

[Han_av18]

There is no substitute for onsite experience, no amount of "cubicle" practice will prepare you for working day to day on the various different environments that we do.

You really need to try and get in with a spark for regular work (one day just wont be anywhere near enough) otherwise you'll come to the end of your training and have all these pieces of paper but no-one will employ you as you have no on-site experience.
.

So from your experience/opinion? would you say the best way of becoming a spark would be the apprentice route ( full time on site work +training)

 

[Guest123]

Ideally yes BUT apprenticeships are like hens teeth, and your age may count against you. Hence these training centres that are springing up everywhere and cashing in on people who want to further themselves without properly filling them in on their prospects at the end of it all.

 

[Jonesy83]

dont be fooled by the adverts you see on telly "learn to be a spark and earn 60k a year" believe me mate its a load of nuts look on the job site adverts they want time served sparks with the extra 2391 qualification and want to pay them peanuts if you want a good earner become a home care worker you get paid more wipeing arses than you do at being a spark