National Electrotechnical Training (NET) has announced all candidates taking the AM2 Assessment of Occupational Competence will have to complete an NET checklist, signed by their employer and training provider, prior to their practical assessment. This position was endorsed by the SummitSkills Electro-technical Strategic Advisory Group at its meeting in December.
NET’s Candidate Self-Assessment Checklist has previously been a voluntary but highly recommended document for AM2 candidates, allowing them to identify if there are any areas where they need to focus on to pass the AM2. The checklist covers almost 50 different aspects of electrical installation, including safe isolation and risk assessment, inspection and testing, fault diagnosis and application and knowledge.
This checklist – available at www.netservices.org.uk – will be a mandatory pre-condition for taking the AM2 from 9 April 2012 and must be signed by both the trainee’s employer and their training provider, unless the candidate is training independently. By doing so, both the employer and training provider will be confirming they believe the candidate has been fully trained and has the necessary competencies to pass the AM2.
Stephen Plant, NET business development director said: “By making the checklist mandatory, we are ensuring that all those involved in electrical training – the candidate, their trainer and employer – understand precisely what competencies the trainee needs to work in the industry.”
He added: “There has been an issue in the past where candidates have been sent to their AM2 when they simply are not ready for the assessment. Ensuring the employer and training provider have to sign and approve the checklist means candidates are more likely to be put forward only when they are in a position to pass. This will end the situation where unready candidates are forced into assessment, preventing them from having to pay for repeat AoCs when they weren’t ready in the first place.”
He concluded: “The AM2 ensures only candidates who meet the standards demanded by industry can work as electricians. Its importance means candidates should only attempt it when they are truly ready. By making the checklist a mandatory requirement, we will encourage apprentices to reflect on their skills and give them the best possible chance of completing their training and starting a rewarding career in the electrical industry.”