This Thursday (16 August 2018) will see students in the West Midlands nervously receive their A-Level results. But whilst many teens will be delighted with their grades, the day can also prove to be extremely testing for those who fall short of their expectations.

Ahead of A Level results day, NICEIC - the UK’s leading name for electricians - is reminding school and college-leavers to consider viable alternatives to the degree route.

NICEIC wants more young entrants to consider a hands-on apprenticeship and choose a career as an electrician. Research by the Federation of Master Builders1 found that the average salary for electricians around the country is £47,265; far exceeding the university graduate’s average income of £32,000. Plus, without the added stress of looming debts, apprentices are now giving graduates a run for their money.

Darren Staniforth, technical development manager at NICEIC comments: “The perception that you can only have a successful career if you study at university is a false one. Students are increasingly taking an interest in trade industries – with apprenticeships becoming a much more enticing proposition.

“For some, it may be the appeal of learning a desired set of technical skills, whilst others will be inspired by the prospect of earning while they learn. Our role is to reach out to the younger generations to showcase the opportunities available and promote the electrical industry as an attractive career path.”

NICEIC believes that learning a trade is a viable alternative to studying at university and is committed to attracting the next generation into the industry. The NICEIC Student Membership Scheme offers support to apprentice electricians to complement the training and personal development of students undertaking relevant technical competency training.

Darren adds: “The construction sector is actually a well-paid sector that offers a vast array of opportunities. Yet, it is still viewed by some as a third-rate industry for people who do not perform well at school.

“We want to change that interpretation and show students what a rewarding and diverse career they can have within the electrical sector.”