Future looks bright for apprentices
NICEIC Apprentice Academy, training the next generation of electricians!
NICEIC has launched its Apprentice Academy which aims to provide students with the necessary training and skills to meet the demanding challenges of the electrotechnical industry. It is hoped that in time the Academy will also go some way to plugging the skills gap in the electrical contracting industry.
“NICEIC is committed to improving standards within the industry and our Academy will give those starting out on their careers the knowledge to complete electrical installations in line with current and future working practices,” says NICEIC’s Chief Operating Officer Emma McCarthy. “Apprenticeships can make industries more effective, productive and competitive by addressing the skills gap directly. They are the proven way to train the workforce of the future.”
Run in partnership with Bedford College, the Academy will see the trainee contractors complete a series of fortnightly courses over two years before embarking on a final year of professional development under the guidance of NICEIC.
The training covers traditional areas of interest including: asbestos awareness, first aid, aluminium scaffolding, risk assessments, certificate completion, periodic inspection and testing, alongside teaching in new technologies such as microgeneration, which will assist contractors tap into the expected green technology boom.
“Apprenticeships give you a good mix of day-to-day stuff out on site and more practical knowledge such as regulations in the classroom,” says Jack Howes, 18, one of the first apprentices on the scheme. “I felt this course was better suited to my needs compared to a previous training course I was on, and when you are getting paid for learning, it keeps you motivated.”
Course Manager at Bedford College, Jeff Welch, adds: “I think these boys are quite privileged as they are getting the best training out there. The NICEIC programme includes six or seven additional modules compared to traditional courses including training on Solar Photovoltaic installations which will be vital to electricians over the next few years.”
NICEIC will help cover the cost of the apprentice’s salary by subsidising their wage by up to £2,000 per academic year. All other costs associated with the student’s learning are covered by the partnership with Bedford College.
If you would like more information about sending your apprentice on the course, along with details about subsidised funding, please email Darren.staniforth@niceic.com