Electrical
Electrify your learning at City of Portsmouth College
Students train in a purpose-built, three-floor electrical workshop with solar PV systems and EV charging points, gaining the skills to power smart, sustainable buildings. They also compete in SkillELECTRIC, showcasing their expertise at regional and national levels with the chance to reach WorldSkills UK. Graduates leave with real-world experience and the power to succeed in the electrical industry.
ELECTRICAL
Subject overview
What's on offer
Electricians are sought-after, valued and busy workers. From wiring a house to repairing technological equipment, knowing your skills alongside your regulations is crucial to a successful career – and City of Portsmouth College can get you where you need to be.
So, bright spark, are you ready to hit the switch and get started?
Our electrical installation courses provide qualifications widely recognised by industry and taught by skilled electricians with proven experience. As well as getting to grips with the latest equipment, you can explore specialist applications like EV charging points and solar photovoltaic (PV) tech. What’s more, you’ll get up-to-the-minute insights from visiting industry partners.
Subject highlights
- develop skills through hands-on practical projects, while learning theory from experts
- apply what you learn to real-life scenarios, so you’re ready for professional work
- seamless progression into professional assessment with our trusted local AM2 centre
- guests from industry give talks and answer your questions
- learn by doing in our purpose-built workshops, where you’ll install, test, and troubleshoot real systems using up-to-date rigs and equipment
- up-to-date learning materials empower you to go further than the curriculum.
Course: Level 2 Technical Certificate in Electrical Installation
Level 2
- Vocational
- North Harbour Campus
- 1 year
- Free
Course: Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard in Electrical Installation / Maintenance (Electrician)
Level 3
- Apprenticeships
- North Harbour Campus
- 54 months
- Free
Course: Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation
Level 3
- Vocational
- North Harbour Campus
- 1 year
- Free
Our facilities
At City of Portsmouth College, you will train in facilities designed to mirror real-world industry standards, giving you the confidence and competence to succeed from day one.
Key facilities include:
- purpose-built workshops across three floors, each tailored to specific skill levels, ensuring focused, progressive training
- expansive, multi-level electrical workshop with dedicated spaces for Level 2, Level 3, and apprenticeship learners
- practice bays & live testing facilities, including a City & Guilds-approved Test and Inspect live testing bay for mastering fault diagnosis, inspection, and commissioning
- EV charging points to develop skills in one of the fastest-growing areas of electrical installation.
Virtual tour
Take a closer look at our learning spaces and stand-out facilities with our interactive 360° virtual tour.
A great way to explore our facilities before booking a visit.
“We do a lot of class discussions which allows you to learn off of other people, so you can progress further. The course is very interesting and broadens your perspective.”Harvey Rhoden
Studying: Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard in Electrical Installation / Maintenance (Electrician)
Careers within the electrical industry
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, build and maintain systems, machinery and equipment.
Main responsibilities:
- Design and plan electrical systems using specialist software
- Inspect and test electrical installations to make sure they’re safe and reliable
- Oversee technicians and engineers to keep projects on track
- Help create greener systems by working on wind turbines or solar panels
- Conduct energy audits to make buildings and systems more efficient
Salary range:
£27,000 - £58,000
Electrician
Electricians install, inspect and repair power, lighting and renewable tech.
Main responsibilities:
- Install and fix wiring, sockets and lighting in homes and businesses
- Fit smart tech such as heating and security systems, or automated lighting
- Respond to emergency callouts to repair faults and keep systems running
- Support net zero by fitting solar panels and EV charging points
- Service and maintain energy-efficient systems like low carbon heating units
Salary range:
£26,000 - £45,000
Electric Vehicle Technician
Electric Vehicle Technicians maintain and repair hybrid and electric vehicles.
Main responsibilities:
- Maintain a vehicle’s electrical systems
- Diagnose and repair faults in batteries, control systems and electrical components
- Advise customers on necessary technical work and costs
- Keep accurate records of repairs and maintenance
- Ensure charging infrastructure works efficiently
Salary range:
£26,000 - £44,000
Electricity Distribution Worker
Electricity Distribution Workers install and maintain systems for electrical transmission.
Main responsibilities:
- Maintain and install overhead and underground power lines
- Work at height on poles and towers, or in trenches for underground cables
- Test electrical systems for safety and performance
- Find and repair faults on power lines and substations
- Remove or replace old cables, components and power infrastructure
Salary range:
£23,000 - £42,000
Let’s help you shape your future.
Bright days ahead for the UK’s electricians
The government has announced the vast majority of new homes will soon need to be built with solar panels on their roof. It’s a significant boost to the UK’s electrical industry. Demand for electricians with the skills to install and maintain solar systems will surge. The career of an electrician has rarely looked so promising – and solar is just one aspect. From EVs to heat pumps, professionals with electrical qualifications will benefit massively from the race to net zero.
Frequently asked questions
Kit lists are provided at enrolment to be purchased in time for starting at COPC.
Yes, you will be required to wear steel toe cap boots, utility trousers and a plain black t-shirt.
There will be a combination of both. Level 1 and 2 courses are predominantly practical. However higher Level 3 courses have more theory.
Yes, you can. Our dedicated apprenticeship team can discuss options with you and help you to find an apprenticeship that matches with your career aspirations.
Yes – all of your studying (including maths and English) will be at our North Harbour Campus.
Once you have chosen the right course, simply visit the relevant course page and follow the clear application or enquiry instructions provided.
Each listing outlines entry requirements, next steps and key dates so you can move forward with confidence. After submitting your application, you will receive confirmation and further guidance about what to expect next.
Our process is designed to be straightforward and supportive, ensuring you feel informed at every stage as you take your first step towards finding your brilliance at City of Portsmouth College.
Yes. Attending an Open Event is one of the best ways to explore our facilities, meet tutors and speak directly with current students.
Open Events give you a genuine feel for College life, allowing you to see workshops, studios and classrooms in action. You can ask questions about course content, enrichment opportunities and progression routes, helping you make a confident and well-informed decision about your future.
Visiting in person often brings your ambitions into sharper focus and helps you picture yourself thriving in your chosen subject area.
After submitting your application or enquiry, you will receive confirmation along with details about the next stage of the process.
Depending on the course, this may include an interview, informal discussion, assessment activity or enrolment guidance. These stages allow us to understand your interests, goals and suitability for the programme, while also giving you the opportunity to ask further questions.
Our aim is to ensure you feel fully prepared, supported and confident as you move closer to starting your course.
If you are unsure which course is right for you, our admissions and curriculum teams are here to help.
They can talk through subject options, entry requirements, career ambitions and progression routes, offering personalised advice based on your interests and strengths. Whether you are deciding between pathways or exploring a completely new direction, you wi'll receive clear and practical guidance.
We are committed to helping you choose a course that challenges you, supports you and gives you the space to grow, so you can move forward with clarity, confidence and purpose.
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