Following the completion of the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Providing Electronic Fire and Security Systems, we hear from experienced Fire Alarm Engineer, Kevin Harris, to find out more about how he has struck ‘gold’ thanks to Zzeus Training.
As the Managing Director of Broadway Brand, Kevin is the latest individual to complete the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Providing Electronic Fire and Security Systems, proudly earning his ECS Fire and Security (FESS) Technician gold card. In this interview, he shares his motivations, experiences, and how achieving this qualification will enhance his professional credibility.
Q. Why did you decide to pursue the NVQ?
It was a number of factors really. The BAFE Scheme document version 8 stipulates the requirement for each module of SP203-1 to have a Lead Engineer nominated and to be qualified.
Recent changes in the ECS scheme requires that fire alarm engineers must hold an ECS FESS assessment, and the upcoming changes to abolish grandfather rights meant that it was the perfect time to obtain the necessary qualifications in my field.
The only other way to get a gold card was through an apprenticeship, which I hadn’t completed, making the NVQ the most straightforward route for an experienced engineer like myself.
I’d always wanted to pursue an NVQ in electrics but had never found the time, relying instead on my extensive field experience, so the timing couldn’t have been better to achieve this qualification.
Q. What made you choose Zzeus as your training provider?
I received many recommendations from industry peers and Zzeus ticks all of these boxes in the NVQ package. Plus, it seemed like a cost-effective route, and included the five-day Level 3 award in BS 5839-1, which I‘ve always wanted to take.
Q. How did it feel to return to education as an experienced engineer?
I fully endorse adult learning and CPD. It’s necessary, especially in our field, because things change and we need to get it right first time when installing life safety systems. I specialise in fire systems and want to know everything I can.
Q. How did you find the five-day course?
I loved it! Buddy (Squires) is a fantastic instructor, and the facilities are top- notch. It was fantastic to see everyone’s knowledge develop each day.
As an experienced engineer, I knew a lot, but it acted as a refresher, and I still picked up a couple of things each day that I now use out in the field. I even joined the ‘100% club’ and achieved the highest score possible!
Q. What were the ‘little things’ you picked up?
One significant takeaway was checking the auxiliary voltage on a system to ensure the power supply is sufficient for the panel. In my 15 years, I was never aware of this particular test, even during BAFE exams. It was a crucial learning point.
Q. How did you find your experience with the NVQ overall?
It was a straightforward process, which I managed to undertake around working full-time, dedicating a little bit of time in the evenings. I started the NVQ in February and gained my qualification and gold card in June. It was worth every bit of my time.
Q. What was involved with the process?
An NVQ is a work- based qualification that recognises the skills and knowledge needed to do a job. Therefore, lots of it was straightforward. I simply had to prove my previous work.
I had an online portal that displayed eight different modules, allowing me to view what I’d achieved and what was outstanding.
Firstly, I was asked to upload all my qualifications, certificates, and CPD over the years. As a subcontractor, these documents were already to hand.
I also uploaded a couple of complete job files I’d done from quotation to handover, so submitting those got me up to 60% in one hit, as I could quickly prove competency.
Next, I had to take an online health and safety module and demonstrate my compliance with safety standards. When I neared the 85% mark, I noted the key points for each module’s requirements and then worked out how to tick them off.
Finally, we arranged a site visit with Tom, where he assessed a project I’d worked on. I evidenced cause and effects and fault-finding, which helped me to reach that magic 100% mark.
Q. What was your impression of the Zzeus team?
The facilities and the team are top- class. It’s a family entity, so very friendly and supportive. I know Tom is all over the country doing all sorts of industry activity, so it was great that he was still able to be there marking my NVQ reports.
Q. Will the gold card help you prove competency going forward?
Absolutely! I have clients who require proof of competency. In the past, I used my ECS card, but now I have my gold card. Nobody can argue with that.
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