New Qualification Pathway Announced for Non-Apprentice Electrotechnical Learners
TESP, in partnership with awarding organisations City & Guilds and EAL, is developing a new qualification pathway for non-apprentice electrotechnical learners.
This pathway will replace the existing Level 3 Diplomas and NVQs and form part of a refreshed, aligned structure that ensures all learners — whether apprentices, experienced workers, or self-funded trainees — are assessed to the same high industry standard.
What’s Being Introduced?
A new route for non-apprentice learners will be launched within the existing Level 3 Electrotechnical and Electrotechnical in Dwellings qualifications.
This will deliver parity and up-to-date content across the three recognised industry routes:
Apprenticeships
Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA)
Self-funded / Non-apprentice learners
The new structure ensures every learner meets the same competence and Building Safety standards. As with other routes, the AM2 industry end assessment will be completed after achieving the qualification.
Why Is This Being Introduced?
This modernised qualification structure will:
Simplify credit transfer when learners move between routes.
Help centres to deliver both apprenticeship and non-apprenticeship training more efficiently.
Ensure consistent standards of competence and safety across the entire industry.
Who Does It Affect?
The new pathway is designed for non-apprentice and self-funded learners who would traditionally have undertaken the current Level 3 NVQ.
It will not affect:
Apprentices training under current apprenticeship standards, or
Participants on the Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) route.
Why the Change?
The current NVQ has been in use for more than 15 years and was originally built around the old apprenticeship framework, replaced in 2015 by apprenticeship standards. Industry practices and technology have advanced significantly since then, and the qualification content must evolve to reflect modern electrical installation techniques, digital systems, and building safety expectations.
What’s New About It?
Key updates include:
Modern Assessment Strategy – A holistic approach using a variety of evidence types, with direct observation across multiple workplace units.
Flexible Delivery – One in-person assessment remains mandatory, while other assessments can be completed virtually and live-streamed.
Broader Practical Evidence – Assessment covers a wider scope of real work, not just health and safety.
Minimum Duration Expectations:
Installation & Maintenance Electrician Pathway: 24 months
Domestic Electrician Pathway: 18 months
Centres must seek EQA approval if learners are likely to complete faster, and NET will monitor progression timelines at the AM2 gateway.
Before registration, enhanced learner documentation will confirm that individuals have access to suitable employment or work settings to gather valid evidence.
Timescales for Introduction
Launch of new pathways: 1 May 2026
Closure of current Level 3 NVQ registrations: 31 October 2026
Share Your Views
TESP believes this is an important step forward for the electrotechnical industry, aligning all learner routes under a single, rigorous, and modern framework and want to hear from employers, training providers, and industry professionals.
👉 Have your say by completing their short survey by 31 October 2025 to share your thoughts on the new assessment approach.
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