NICEIC, a certification and training body for the electrical industry in the UK, has announced an expansion of its Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA) provision. This includes the introduction of a new EWA route for Domestic Electricians and the launch of the EAL Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test, designed to give experienced professionals without a Level 2 qualification access to the EWA pathway.
This expansion comes in response to increasing demand from electricians seeking formal recognition of their skills.
The introduction of the EWA Domestic Electrician route aims to enable more experienced electricians to gain a recognised Level 3 qualification and unlock new career opportunities.
In addition, the Electrical Underpinning Knowledge and Understanding Test, launching in June 2025, offers a new pathway for electricians who typically have over 10 years of experience and want to undertake the EWA, but lack a Level 2 qualification. The first exam window will open in July 2025, with NICEIC being the first approved centre to deliver this new test.
The EWA is tailored for electricians who have not completed a traditional apprenticeship or equivalent Level 3 vocational qualification but have extensive industry experience. Two routes are available:
· Installation Electrician
· Domestic Electrician
Both routes are benchmarked against the same standards as formal apprenticeships, ensuring candidates are assessed to Level 3 competency.
The EWA process is built around real-world evidence, allowing candidates to demonstrate their skills through practical assessment. Eligibility requirements include:
· A Level 2 electrical qualification (or equivalent knowledge via the new test).
· Minimum of 3 years’ experience for the Domestic Electrician route.
· Minimum of 5 years’ experience for the Installation Electrician route.
“NICEIC is committed to raising standards and supporting the professional development of electricians,” says Alex Robinson, Head of Product Development at NICEIC. “We’ve seen a significant increase in demand from experienced electricians who want to formalise their skills and stay competitive in a changing industry. By expanding our EWA provision to include the Domestic route and the new entry exam, we’re helping more professionals upskill, gain the recognition they deserve, and contribute to a safer, more competent workforce across the sector.”
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