Training centre wins approval

Clarkson Evans has been approved to deliver EAL’s new Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQs), designed to support the 17th Edition IEE Wiring Regulations (BS7671).

Clarkson Evans, based in Gloucester, was quick to seek status as an EAL approved centre so it can continue to offer its customers the first class level of choice and service which they have grown to expect.

First established in 1981, the company specialises in wiring new homes. To increase the flow of suitably qualified electricians, Clarkson Evans developed its own training centre in 1998. Since then its training division has gone from strength to strength and now teaches around 900 people each year, ranging from apprentices to electricians with years of experience.

And although Clarkson Evans continues to specialise in installing complete electrical wiring systems in as many as 7500 brand new homes every year, it has also carved out a reputation as one of the UK’s leading electrical training specialists.

Clarkson Evans is among the first training organisations to receive approval for delivery of the new suite of vocational qualifications from January 2008 onwards. The finished package includes four new qualifications, including a 17th Edition Update VRQ to deal with changes to the existing set of standards and a 17th Edition Full VRQ to provide the necessary training for those returning to the trade.

The content has been developed through close consultation with SummitSkills, the Sector Skills Council, along with organisations such as the ECA and NICEIC. The Joint Industry Board has also been kept fully informed throughout the development process.

The news of Clarkson Evans’ involvement coincided with a series of nationwide launch events, organised by EAL, to make sure colleges, training providers and employers have the right knowledge and information about the qualifications and to avoid crossed wires when it comes to their delivery.