APPRENTICE NEWS
Free learning platform launches for electrical apprentices Electrical Safety First has announced the launch of ACE:Electrical (the Apprentice Channel of Excellence), a new platform offering free, high- quality teaching and learning resources for all UK electrical apprentices. This innovative channel, hosted on Learning Lounge, aims to empower the next generation of electricians with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their careers. From January 10, UK electrical apprentices enrolled with approved training providers will have access to an ever-expanding library of modular, bite-sized content at no cost. Designed to complement hands-on learning, ACE:Electrical delivers expert-led modules covering key industry topics, from electrical protection systems to health and safety legislation. New content will be added weekly, ensuring apprentices always have fresh resources to enhance their understanding and technical skills. ACE:Electrical is presented by Dave Austin, a revered figure in the electrical industry, alongside Veronica Jennings, winner of the Electrical Apprentice of the Year in 2022, and James Whelehan, a qualified electrician and QS. Together, they will offer an engaging mix of experience and relatability, making the content both inspiring and accessible. Electrical tutors at approved training centres can also access a suite of tools to elevate their teaching. With a centre licence, tutors can monitor student progress, direct learners to specific modules and seamlessly integrate ACE content into classroom lessons. This dual approach ensures that both apprentices and educators benefit from the platform’s extensive resources. By offering free, expert-led resources to apprentices and invaluable teaching tools to tutors, the platform aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. www.ace.learninglounge.com
WAGES FOR FIRST- AND SECOND-YEAR ELECTRICAL APPRENTICES WILL RISE BY MORE THAN £1,000 A YEAR ABOVE THE MINIMUM WAGE FOLLOWING THE INDUSTRY INITIATIVE… New apprentice pay rates come into effect in Northern Ireland
Apprentice rates of pay have been increased from January 6, after the Electrical Contractors’ Association, SELECT and Unite collaborated to update the rate alongside the rise in the national minimum wage. Unite said the deal will see wages for first- and second-year electrical apprentices rise by more than £1,000 a year above the minimum wage. With the electrical industry facing a pressing need for skilled workers to support the low carbon transition, ensuring fair pay is regarded as a critical element in attracting and retaining a talent pipeline. The national standard rate of pay per hour will increase from £6.44 to £8.16 (Stage 1), £9.09 to £10.60 (Stage 2), £13.02 to £13.05 (Stage 3) and £13.99 to £14.03 (Stage 4). Part of this updated agreement removes the ‘At College’ rate of
pay for Northern Ireland, England and Wales, with one rate of pay now applying to all hours of work or as part of off-the-job learning during an apprenticeship. The agreement retains the benefits of grading by encouraging apprenticeship completion and progression to electrician status, and the obtainment of a gold card in a structured way. The JIB Handbook will be updated with the new rates, while upcoming pay negotiations for 2026 onwards will also commence this year. Jason Poulter, Unite national officer for construction, said, “Electrical apprentices work hard and deserve a fair rate for the job. Unite is pleased to have secured this deal, which is not only important for the current crop of apprentices but will also help drive recruitment into the industry and close the skills gap.” www.eca.co.uk
ELECTEX BELFAST : REGISTER TO ATTEND AT WWW.BEPEX.IE
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