Cabling Apprenticeships with VQ Solutions

The Role of Network Cable Installers

Network cable installers are essential to the digital infrastructure ecosystem. Following national and international standards, they install, terminate, test, and certify network cable infrastructure. This infrastructure is crucial for communication between digital devices—computers, servers, smart devices, and security equipment—on local and global scales. Installers work in various environments, from in-building cable installations to external connections between buildings and cities. Projects range from small tasks, like installing a single outlet, to large-scale operations with thousands of outlets or extensive fibre cable installations. The role can be physically demanding, often requiring heavy equipment handling, and is key to an organisation’s cybersecurity strategy by ensuring physical and data security.

Apprenticeship Overview

Typical Job Roles:

• Network Cable Installer
• Structured Cabling Installer
• Telecoms Cable Installer

Programme Length:

• 12 Months

Programme Level:

• Level 3

Delivery Method:

• Blended Learning: online learning, live tutor-led classes, one-to-one mentoring

End Point Assessment:

• 1-day practical assessment and a professional discussion, supported by a portfolio of evidence and an assignment

Professional Recognition:

• Network Cable Installer Certificate
• Full member of the Institute of Telecommunications Professionals
• ECS Network Infrastructure Installer Gold Card

Funding:

• Apprenticeship Levy paying employers can use their funds for this programme. Employers not paying the Levy can receive up to 95% funding.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum aligns with apprenticeship standards and is delivered through one-to-one mentoring, live tutor-led lessons, and online learning materials. All learners usually complete the full curriculum, but a reduced curriculum can be discussed where prior learning and experience are present.

Key Modules:

1. Health and Safety:

   • Responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
   • Identifying and mitigating health and safety risks during cable installation
   • Asbestos awareness and Working at Height regulations

2. Personal Development:

   • Workplace processes for cybersecurity and workforce management systems
   • Maintaining accurate documentation for project completion and customer handover

3. Copper Cabling:

   • Principles of digital information transmission over copper networks
   • Electrical characteristics of copper cables and installation techniques

4. Testing Telecoms Cables:

   • Testing parameters for copper and fibre cable certification per industry standards
   • Routine test equipment service and calibration

5. Fibre Optic Cabling:

   • Transmission principles of digital information over fibre networks
   • Light propagation, attenuation in fibre channels, and installation techniques

6. Investigating and Defining Customer Requirements:

   • Understanding customer organisation, structure, and communication requirements
   • Inspecting network components and meeting quality standards

7. Network Equipment:

   • Key components of structured cabling infrastructure and IT network architecture
   • Cable types and networking equipment like routers and switches

8. Projects and Network Design:

   • Design specifications and documentation, including floor plans, patch lists, and rack face layout plans
   • Segregation of data and electrical cables and assembly of equipment racks/cabinets

9. Quality Management and Workflow:

   • Adherence to National and International standards and manufacturers' best-practice guidelines
   • Impact of poor-quality workmanship on communication links and use of workforce management systems

Endpoint Assessment

All apprentices must complete the endpoint assessment process (EPA). To finish the endpoint, apprentices must:

• Develop an online portfolio
• Participate in a discussion with an endpoint assessor
• Practical Demonstration and Questions

Value to Apprentices

This cabling apprenticeship offers immense value by providing a thorough and practical learning experience covering network cable installation and maintenance. Engaging with various modules, apprentices gain a deep understanding of the field's theoretical and practical aspects. This knowledge is crucial for developing technical proficiency, ensuring safety, and compliance with industry standards. The programme also equips apprentices with critical project planning, customer service, and cybersecurity skills, promoting comprehensive professional development. This approach ensures that apprentices are prepared to meet current industry demands and are adaptable to future technological advancements, making them valuable assets in their respective fields.

Value to Employers

This cabling apprenticeship programme is highly beneficial for employers in the network cable installation sector, equipping apprentices with a comprehensive skill set that directly enhances the workplace. The programme prepares individuals to handle modern network infrastructure complexities effectively by ensuring apprentices are well-versed in various relevant areas. Modules on customer requirements and quality management train apprentices in technical proficiency, understanding, and delivering on client expectations, enhancing customer satisfaction. Their cybersecurity knowledge and the latest industry standards ensure the workforce remains current with evolving technologies and regulatory requirements, reducing errors and improving overall efficiency and reputation. This training leads to a more competent, versatile, and safety-conscious workforce, driving operational excellence and business growth in network cable installation.

For more details, visit the VQ Solutions Network Cable Installer Apprenticeship page.