For any ECS card sparks.

[PHuzzy]

Really struggling to get my head around this one.
Have just left the Army where I was a sparky, was in the process of applying for the Craft Card from ECS and just before sending it off, I thought it best to double check on what they require.

Having read through it, it seems I need a C&G 2356.
So currently I have lvl 2 and 3 2330 and the 2382 17th ed. certificates plus years of experience working with installations (domestic, commercial and military), hv/lv cable jointing both underground and overhead lines plus some power generation and other stuff.

Yet I'm unable to obtain a gold card? How?

Is there anyway around it or am I seriously going to have to spunk a fair amount of cash on going to college to do some crappy course just to get a card?

[mrsimmers]

I have 2360 part 1& 2, AM1 & 2, 2391, 2382 17th edition and that got me a card.

I don't know what the latest versions of my quals are now as everything seems to be NVQ now.

Edited by mrsimmers on Wednesday 18th June 21:32

[ch427]

Years ago the sparks I worked with used to just get the most basic cscs card as that's all the site agents were interested in, they didn't care if you were qualified or not!

[PHuzzy]

Thanks for the replies, I think times have changed for the worst, more red tape and bullst!

I've had some clarification now, my AM2 is not valid as it wasn't taken at a civilian centre, so that needs re-doing at £600+!
I also need to build a portfolio of work that can be assessed via photographs and site visits. This is now my stumbling block... I can't get onto sites because I do not have the card, I can't get the card unless I can get work because I don't have the card.
Plus another £550+ for the privilege.

Amazing roundabout failure.