The electrical industry in the UK is a vital and growing sector, with a market size valued at £23.6 billion in 2023. This industry is expected to experience significant growth by 2030, driven by advancements in technology, renewable energy initiatives, and the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions. Electricians are at the forefront of this transition, playing a crucial role in implementing energy-efficient systems and supporting the growing demand for electric vehicles, smart grids, and sustainable infrastructure.
For example, the UK government’s push toward net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 has created numerous opportunities for electricians. Case studies, such as the installation of energy-efficient lighting and heating systems in public buildings and the expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, highlight the growing need for skilled electricians. These initiatives not only contribute to environmental goals but also provide job security and lucrative career prospects for electricians.
The average salary of an electrician in the UK is approximately £32,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning upwards of £40,000. As the demand for skilled electricians continues to rise, especially in sectors like renewable energy and smart home technologies, the earning potential is expected to increase, making it a highly attractive career choice.
Understanding the financial and time commitments required to become a qualified electrician is crucial. The cost of training varies depending on the pathway you choose, whether you’re starting from scratch, focusing on domestic installations, or fast-tracking your qualifications with prior experience. This guide will help you navigate your options effectively, ensuring you make informed decisions about your future in this growing industry.
What Does an Electrician Do?
Electricians are skilled professionals who handle various tasks depending on their training, credentials, and areas of specialization. Some common responsibilities include:
- Servicing light systems: Maintaining and repairing streetlights, traffic lights, and display signs along motorways.
- Supporting manufacturing plants: Repairing and maintaining machinery and equipment critical to production processes.
- Conducting safety inspections: Ensuring electrical systems in organizations are safe and performing necessary maintenance.
- Assembling and maintaining PLC panels: Working with programmable logic control (PLC) panels, drives, and motors in industrial settings.
- Installing electrical systems: Managing installations within buildings, such as escalators, lifts, heating elements, and lighting fixtures.
Electricians play a vital role in maintaining the safety, functionality, and efficiency of electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial environments.
Check out all the electrical courses you can enroll in.
What Can Electricians Specialise In?
Electricians can specialize in various fields based on their skills, training, and interests. Here are some common specializations:
1. Commercial Electrician
Commercial electricians focus on the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems in commercial buildings such as offices, retail spaces, and factories. They handle wiring, lighting, heating systems, and breaker panels. This specialization typically requires substantial experience in commercial settings. Commercial electricians can also explore specialist opportunities. As the demand for renewable energy solutions increases, electricians can specialize in areas like solar energy, electrical vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and energy storage systems. Courses such as the Renewable Energy Package and Electrical Energy Storage Systems are essential for those looking to focus on green technologies.
2. Residential or Domestic Electrician
Residential electricians, also known as domestic electricians, primarily work in private homes, handling wiring, installations, and repairs. They may work independently as contractors or as part of a larger team. The Professional Electricians Course offered by Learn Trade Skills is an excellent way to enter this field, especially for those who prefer a faster and more focused training route. Also they explore renewable energy options, including Solar Panel Installation and EV Electrical Installation etc.
3. Maintenance Electrician
Maintenance electricians are responsible for ensuring that electrical systems within buildings or organizations operate smoothly. They conduct routine inspections and perform necessary repairs, such as fixing appliances or addressing wiring issues, to maintain safety and functionality.
For more details on the earning potential and career outlook, check out How Much Can an Electrician Earn in the UK in 2024?
Navigating the Pathways to Becoming an Electrician
1. Full-Time Pathway: The Gold Card Route
For those starting from scratch or with minimal experience, the Gold Card Electrical Course Package is an ideal option. This pathway involves full-time study over approximately 15 weeks, followed by workplace assessments. It provides comprehensive training, including theory and practical components, to equip you with the qualifications needed for the JIB Gold Card. This status allows you to work on both domestic and commercial sites, making it a thorough option for those committed to a full-time education.
Who Is It For?
- Individuals with little to no electrical experience.
- Those looking for a complete qualification package to achieve JIB Gold Card status.
- People seeking a career change or those with under five years of experience without formal qualifications.
Key Steps:
- Enroll in the Gold Card Electrical Course Package.
- Complete Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas in Electrical Installations.
- Undertake additional qualifications like 18th Edition Wiring Regulations and NVQ Level 3.
- Prepare for the AM2 Exam to achieve JIB Gold Card status.
Cost: £8,599
Learn more about the Gold Card Electrical Course
2. Domestic Installer Pathway: The Professional Electricians Course
If you’re aiming to focus on domestic installations, the Professional Electricians Course Package is a great option. This pathway is tailored for those with little to no experience who wish to work primarily in residential settings. It’s a part-time course that includes both theoretical and practical training within the center, supported by online study resources.
Who Is It For?
- Individuals with little to no electrical experience.
- People seeking to focus on domestic installations.
- Those looking to join a Competent Persons Scheme (e.g., NICEIC, NAPIT).
- Electricians missing specific qualifications needed for certification.
Key Steps:
- Enroll in the Professional Electricians Course Package.
- Gain essential qualifications, including Part P Building Regulations and the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations.
- Complete your training and assessments to qualify as a domestic installer.
Cost: £4,539
Explore the Professional Electricians Course Package
3. Experienced Worker Route: Fast-Track to Qualification
For those with significant industry experience (at least five years), the Experienced Worker Package offers a fast-track option to becoming fully qualified. This pathway allows you to formalize your skills with an NVQ Level 3 and other essential certifications, helping you achieve ECS Gold Card status.
Who Is It For?
- Electricians with at least five years of industry experience.
- Those looking to formalize their skills with an NVQ Level 3.
- Individuals aiming to achieve ECS Gold Card status or join a Competent Persons Scheme.
Key Steps:
- Enroll in the Experienced Worker Package.
- Complete the NVQ Level 3 assessments and required certifications.
- Prepare for the AM2E Exam if needed, to finalize your qualification.
Cost: £5,089
Find out more about the Experienced Worker Package
4. College Route: Full NVQ 5357 Apprenticeship
The college route offers a traditional pathway that focuses on completing the full NVQ 5357, typically through an apprenticeship. This pathway is ideal for school leavers or those seeking a more structured, long-term educational experience.
The NVQ 5357 is the official apprenticeship route to achieving a Level 3 Electrotechnical qualification. While it is a comprehensive and well-recognized pathway, it comes with several limitations, especially for adult learners or those looking for more flexibility in their education and career progression.
1. Requirement for an Official Apprenticeship: The NVQ 5357 requires you to be employed in a formal apprenticeship role with an electrical business. This can be a significant barrier for adult learners or those who want to transition into the electrical industry but may not be able to commit to a traditional apprenticeship. This requirement restricts learners to government-approved apprenticeships, which can limit options compared to more flexible qualifications like the NVQ 2357.
2. Duration and Rigid Structure: The NVQ 5357 apprenticeship typically spans around 48 months, with learners spending the majority of their time in the workplace and attending college one day a week. This long duration can be challenging for those who need to upskill quickly or have financial responsibilities that make it difficult to stay on an apprenticeship wage for an extended period.
3. Apprenticeship Wages: Another major drawback is the lower wages associated with apprenticeships. For adults or those with prior work experience, the apprenticeship wage can be significantly less than what they could earn in a non-apprenticeship role. This makes the NVQ 5357 less appealing for those who need a higher income, particularly if they are supporting a family or have other financial commitments.
4. Limited Flexibility: Unlike the NVQ 2357, which allows learners to qualify through any electrical installation or maintenance role, the NVQ 5357 is strictly tied to an official apprenticeship program. This lack of flexibility can make it less suitable for those who wish to work in more varied or independent roles within the industry while they are training.
5. Less Suitable for Adult Learners: Overall, the NVQ 5357 is generally aimed at school leavers or younger individuals starting their careers. Adult learners might find the structure, duration, and financial implications less favorable compared to other training routes that allow for quicker qualification and better earning potential during the training period.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond course fees, consider the following additional costs:
- Tools and Equipment: Necessary for practical training and professional work.
- Books and Study Materials: Required for theory and reference.
- Travel and Accommodation: If attending in-person classes.
Learn Trade Skills and many colleges provide necessary resources during training, helping to minimize these additional expenses.
Funding Options
To make your education more affordable, various funding options are available:
- Interest-Free Payment Plans: Spread the cost over several months.
- Government Loans: Available to eligible for college students.
- Sponsorship Opportunities: Provided through employers or industry organizations.
- College Funding: Colleges often offer financial aid or bursaries for eligible students.
These options help make the financial aspect of your training more manageable, allowing you to focus on your studies.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pathway to becoming a qualified electrician is crucial, as it directly impacts your time commitment and financial investment. Whether you’re starting from scratch, focusing on domestic installations, fast-tracking your qualifications with prior experience, or opting for a college route, you have various options to meet your needs.
For more detailed information, visit our guide on how to become an electrician.
Tolga Aramaz is the Director of Learn Trade Skills (LTS), a family-run training centre specialising in electrical installations. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the electrical industry, Tolga is known for their exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering outstanding results. They provide valuable insights and guidance to electricians, contractors, and businesses, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and safety protocols. Through engaging training programmes and consultancy services, Tolga empowers professionals to excel in their roles, fostering long-term relationships built on professionalism and customer satisfaction.
