As testing centres prepare to reopen next week, and apprentices across Scotland pick up their tools and books again, the two-minute film gives an overview of exactly what the important assessment entails.

From preparing a pre-FICA checklist to what to expect on the day itself, the animation gives a step-by-step overview, preparing apprentices for what awaits them at the ultimate stage of the electrical training programme.

The new animation follows the success of the first SELECT and SJIB joint animation, Journey of an Electrician, which was released in April 2019.

SELECT’s director of employment and skills, Fiona Harper, said: “This new animation takes candidates through the many practical steps which are necessary to approach and successfully complete the FICA and become a qualified electrician, with all the professional benefits that the qualification brings.

“Like our previous animation, it is easy to follow, engaging and informative, and explains the procedures clearly, giving an excellent idea of what is required of the young people who are about to undertake this tough assessment.”

First established in 1998, the FICA is part of the SJIB’s modern apprenticeship programme, which leads to the SVQ (SCQF 7) qualification in electrical installation.

Held at three testing centres across Scotland – which will be reopening on Monday 29 June – the challenging two-day assessment is made up of practical and complex electrical installation tasks, compliant with the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations, which must be completed against the clock.

Fiona Harper

Fiona, who is also the secretary of the SJIB, added: “The FICA can often seem quite daunting to the candidates, so this animation is designed to offer clarity and reassurance and show exactly what awaits them at this stage of their career.”

Once again created by the animation team at Connect Communications, it will now be hosted on the SELECT and SJIB websites, as well as being shown in schools, colleges and trade fairs to give would-be electricians an idea of what the assessment entails.

Fiona said: “Scotland currently face a skills challenge, with recruiting an issue in particular, so it’s crucial that we attract the best young people possible to the electrical industry.

“Initiatives such as this animation, which can be screened at events and conferences to explain career choices, will have a hugely beneficial effect.”