Short specialist qualifications in isolation do not meet the Level 2 entry criteria – a full technical certificate is required.

Once enrolled on the EWA, those candidates with Inspection & Testing or BS7671 can use these towards the additional requirements of the qualification, but they cannot be accepted towards the Level 2 technical certificate entry requirement.

The Skills Scan is a first-step assessment designed to help you determine your eligibility for the Experienced Worker Assessment by reviewing the depth of knowledge, skill and experience that is required to complete the assessment. It’s designed to help you avoid wasting money and struggling to complete qualification or the assessment process if this is not quite the right pathway for you.

The Skills Scan asks for details of any relevant technical qualifications you hold. These can be used to show that you have the required electrical knowledge to take the EWA, through Recognition of Prior Learning. You must hold a minimum Level 2 electrical technical certificate from the list in the Skills Scan. We will need to verify your certificate(s) and will also carry out a documented or recorded technical discussion to confirm that your knowledge is up to date. Where there are gaps, we may recommend you undertake further formal training before taking EWA.

The Skills Scan also asks about your practical experience. This is because you will need to provide performance evidence in the EWA. If you are not working across the full scope of activity required, you may find it difficult to provide the range of evidence that will be required.  The EWA must be completed within an 18-month period.

The EWA is designed for practising electricians and requires evidence of at least 5 years (for Installation / Maintenance Electrician) or 3 years (for Domestic Electrician) experience – this cannot include any time spent in education or training.

The discussion will be documented or recorded and forms part of the auditable evidence that will be checked as part of the quality assurance processes.

At least one performance assessment must take place while you are carrying out work onsite with the assessor physically present. You will also need time to complete portfolio work, but this can be done inside or outside of work hours. As each candidate’s experience will differ, we are unable to provide an estimate of the time required off the job.

If you do not hold Inspection and Testing or Wiring Regulations qualifications you will need to attend the centre to undertake these qualifications.

You will also need to complete the AM2E (for Installation Electrician) or AM2ED (for Domestic Electrician) Assessment, which is separate from the Experienced Worker Qualification. This is a practical assessment where you will have to attend a NET-licensed centre.

If you aren’t currently working as an electrician, you will not be able to complete the EWA’s practical assessments. The EWA is targeted at practising electricians, and the performance assessments have to be based on current, authenticated activity. You may have evidence from past work that will confirm that you’re a suitable candidate for EWA, but you’d still need to be working now in order to generate up to date evidence across the range of activity required.

Unfortunately, there are no exemptions from the performance units within EWA.

If you are working in the industry but the Experienced Worker Assessment isn’t right for you at this time due to gaps in your knowledge or experience, don’t give up! It may be you just need more time or experience in certain areas before you’re ready to apply.

It’s always recommended you complete a relevant industry-approved Level 3 route, recognised by employers.

Check out our ‘Become An Electrician’ information page to find out more.