Stage one of the 2018 NICEIC and ELECSA Electrical Apprentice of the Year Competition, sponsored by Scolmore, is now officially closed and we are delighted to announce there has been a staggering 60% increase in entries compared to last year.

This brings to more than 650 the number of budding electricians hoping to lift the coveted trophy at next year’s final. As well as an overall increase in entries, there has been a significant rise in the number of applications from older candidates, evidence of the growing number of people undertaking a career change.

Now in its third year, the competition is open to all Level 3 students, and will once again seek to test the skills and knowledge of those candidates who put themselves forward. With stage one - the online assessment to test levels of electrical knowledge – now closed, the top 20% will qualify for the next round – a 90 minute practical exam to be held at a number of locations across the UK and marked by industry experts. Eight students with the highest scores from stage two will go through to the final. Every college that enters 20 students or more for the competition will receive a Scolmore College Pack containing a variety of Scolmore products.

The brightest talents will be rewarded with a range of prizes – including holiday vouchers worth £2,000 for the winner, £750 for the runner up and £250 for third place. The eight finalists will also each receive an engraved trophy, an iPad and a ‘Van Pack’ of Scolmore products, while the college of the overall winner will receive £1000 worth of Scolmore products. 

The grand final will take place at Scolmore Group’s head offices in Tamworth, Staffordshire, on Tuesday, 5th June, when candidates will be required to complete a number of challenging practical tasks over the course of the day. The Electrical Apprentice of the Year will be crowned at a special barbecue and awards ceremony to be held at The Belfry Hotel & Resort that evening.