How To Find A Trainee Or Apprentice Electrician

More trainee electricians are now trying to find jobs after being encouraged into the electrical trade. Large numbers have already started their training at colleges or approved training centers. Some unemployed trainees will have attained NVQ Level 2 qualifications or higher but lack the experience of working alongside qualified trades persons.

It shouldn't be difficult to find and recruit an apprentice to your business. Many colleges run their own electrical apprenticeship schemes and will be keen to offer training support to employers but there are some key points to be considered when recruiting and knowing your responsibilities as an employer.
Firstly, does the apprentice have their own transport or live close to your place of work or office? A more local applicant will make life easier for you when it comes to meeting or travelling to site.
Do they have any previous experience in your type of work and do they have other skills or trade qualifications?
Decide on a trial period so you can decide if the arrangement will work for you both.
Is funding available for their training through an approved apprenticeship scheme and are they already enrolled on one?
Find out if they have their own tools as this can show that they are serious about their career as an electrician.
Ask how much they expect to earn as an apprentice electrician.
Your accountant will be able to give you advice regarding methods of paying employees and entitlements such as sickness & holidays.
You will need to have Employer's Public Liability Insurance.

Work based apprenticeships funding may be available though organizations such as the National Apprenticeship Service and the Skills Sector Council. Information about apprenticeships in your area will be avaiable from training providors such as local technical colleges. Companies that employ a 16-18 year old trainee will only be required to pay their wages. Training can be funded by the Government.

To gain experience, a trainee electrician may want to work for you free of charge. This shows commitment but remember that they must still be covered by an employer's insurance policy incase of accident or injury. Also if they are receiving unemployment benefit it is illegal to work, even for little or no pay, without informing the Department of Works and Pensions. Employer and employee can both be fined for breaking the law.