2357 NVQ Changes

The City & Guilds 2357-44 NVQ will cease registrations from the 31st October 2026 and is to be replaced by 2 versions, the 5357-95 which is the full non-apprenticeship route and the 5393-43 which is a domestic installation route only.

Why replace the 2357?

The changes are being driven by The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) who manage the electrical sector assessment specifications and qualifications which include new standardised entry requirements to join Government approved competent person schemes such as NICEIC, NAPIT or to gain an ECS Gold Card.

The 2357 is quite an old qualification and the industry has recognised that many changes have occurred since its inception and want to modernise and align all recognised training routes with current industry standards. It will also align the industry qualifications for apprentices, experienced
workers and competence based qualifications for adult learners.

Key Dates

31st October 2026 – This is the final date you can be registered on the 2357-44 NVQ
31st December 2029 – This is the final date that you can be certificated for the 2357-44 NVQ

What changes with the new NVQ Routes?

Historically adult learners doing the 2357-44 NVQ have been able to fast track their on-site evidence portfolios alongside training for their Level 3 Electrical Installation Diplomas, however the awarding bodies (City & Guilds/EAL) under advice and guidance from TESP have changed this within the new NVQ’s.

Let’s look at them both in more detail:

5357-95 NVQ Unit Route

This route is for adults who are self-funded, currently working in the industry to continue their journey to become a fully qualified electrician after completing a Level 3 electrical installation diploma. This portfolio will cover domestic, commercial and industrial installations and is expected to take 24 months whilst you gain site experience. There may be exceptions to the 24 months depending on experience or prior learning/qualifications however auditable evidence will need to be demonstrated and documented to achieve this. To complete this qualification, you will need to take an end point assessment AM2 at a NET Centre which will allow you to apply for a ECS Gold Card.

5393-43 NVQ Unit Route

This route is for adults who are self-funded, currently working in the industry to continue their journey to become a fully qualified domestic electrician after completing a Level 3 electrical installation diploma. This portfolio will cover domestic installations and is expected to take 18 months whilst you gain site experience. There may be exceptions to the 18 months depending on experience or prior learning/qualifications however auditable evidence will need to be demonstrated and documented to achieve this. To complete your qualification, you will need to take an end point assessment AM2D at a NET Centre which will allow you to apply for a ECS Domestic Gold Card.