New cabling NVQs help contractors broaden their horizons

Learning body EAL has worked with the ECA and SummitSkills to develop a suite of cabling qualifications designed specifically for the electrotechnical sector.

EAL's NVQ qualifications in Installing Structured Cabling Systems at Level 2 and Electrotechnical Services Level 3 recognise competence in electrotechnical activities including pathways for installing and inspecting structured cabling systems and electrical installations.

The Level 2 qualification consists of five mandatory assessment routes, which include implementing safe site working practices, along with preparing to position, and installation of structured cabling systems. The Level 3 qualification comprises of two pathways, Installing & Inspecting Structured Cabling Systems and Electrical Installation.

The topics include installing electrical wiring systems, enclosures and equipment, as well as terminating, testing and rectifying structured copper cabling systems.

Iain Macdonald, head of education and training at the ECA said: “These qualifications allow firms to diversify in to other areas of expertise and unlike many short courses on offer, as national qualifications, they offer operatives a progression route to further qualifications, such as NVQs at Level 3 or 4.

“We look forward to developing more qualifications with EAL as part of our ongoing efforts to assist our members to demonstrate the highest level of skills against nationally approved standards and reap the business benefits.”

Ann Watson, managing director of EAL, said: “With 76% of all engineering N/SVQs in the UK being awarded by EAL, replicating this success in other sectors is an important objective for us.”

The NVQs are available at colleges and other training providers across the UK, and the Level 3 forms part of the SummitSkills advanced apprenticeship framework.