What can I do to ensure I’m not taken advantage of by unscrupulous training providers?
TESP is regularly contacted by people who believed they were training to become a qualified electrician, but sadly it emerges not to be the case.
Unscrupulous training providers are offering packages that look attractive to the untrained eye but leave learners paying thousands of pounds for qualifications which are not needed for qualified electrician status and don’t give them the full range of skills needed.
If you have friends or colleagues looking to become qualified but don’t know where to start, please share this advice with them.
Check what’s included in any packages of courses very carefully – often they contain courses that are not essential or suitable for new entrants and are not required for an ECS card application. Avoid terms like ‘Professional Electrician’ or ‘Full Scope Electrician’, as most of these contain a mix of knowledge qualifications and other courses that are best taken only once you’ve qualified.
Work-based training is essential. The classroom-based qualifications you’ll gain at a college or other training provider can be a good foundation, but on their own, they do not mean you’re a qualified electrician. You cannot qualify without working in the industry.
Avoid hard sells. Most providers want to do the right thing and will happily answer questions. Be wary if you’re being pressurised to commit to anything without having time to properly reflect or check out any claims, especially if you’re being asked to enter into a financial agreement. Reputable providers will have detailed information on their websites, including prices.
As importantly, check out the Rogue Trainers website for our full advice in this area and for details on recognised training routes.
Visit the Rogue Trainers website here
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