NVQ 2357
Your Guide To The C&G NVQ 2357
City and Guilds Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment)
The City and Guilds (C&G) 2357 Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems & Equipment is specifically designed for those with less than 5 years of experience and that have completed, or are working towards completing, their C&G Level 2 and 3 Electrical Installations Diplomas, or EAL equivalent.
Anyone with more than 5 years experience may be eligible to follow the 2346-03 Experienced Worker Qualification pathway.
Once a candidate has gained the qualification they will then be able to take the AM2 at any authorised AM2 centre in the UK.
Upon successful completion of the NVQ 2357 qualification and AM2, candidates will be eligible to apply for their ECS/JIB Gold Card.
Successful completion of this NVQ qualification involves building an evidence portfolio, applying knowledge from previous courses to real-world scenarios, and collecting evidence to showcase your work. The portfolio requires you to demonstrate and provide evidence of installing a range of containment, equipment, and wiring systems. Assessments include witness testimony, reflective accounts, photographic evidence, and direct observation.
The course has 18 units in total, 8 Performance Units, 9 Knowledge Units, and the mandatory AM2 unit.
A detailed description of each of the Performance Units can be found within this site, from the website Menu at the top of the page.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the C&G NVQ 2357 Level 3 Diploma qualification you must:
a) Be at least 16 years old
b) Assure your chosen Training Provider that you have the potential and opportunity to gain the qualification successfully
c) Complete the relevant Knowledge Unit before completing the associated Performance Unit, ie Unit 601 before 311
d) Have, or have the potential to obtain, access to a real work setting where you can demonstrate practical occupational competence to the requirements of the units needed to complete your Evidence Portfolio
e) Achieve the 18th Edition and 2391-52 Award in the Initial Verification and Periodic Inspection, Testing and Certification of Electrical Installations (or equivalent). These can be done alongside the NVQ but the NVQ cannot be claimed until these have been achieved.
ELCAS Funding
The City & Guilds Level 3 NVQ 2357 Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment qualification is approved for ELCAS funding. Under the scheme members of the Armed Forces can receive financial support to contribute towards their higher-level learning.
NVQ 2357 Performance Units
2357-311: Applying Health and Safety legislation and working practices (Installing and Maintaining Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment)
2357-312: Applying environmental legislation, working practices and the principles of environmental technology systems
2357-313: Overseeing and organising the work environment (Electrical Installation)
2357-315: Planning, preparing and installing Mandatory wiring systems and associated equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-316: Terminating and connecting conductors, cables and flexible cords in electrical systems
2357-317: Inspecting, testing, commissioning and certifying electrotechnical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-318: Diagnosing and correcting electrical faults in electrical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-399: Electrotechnical Occupational Competence (AM2)
Performance Units
2357-311: Applying Health and Safety legislation and working practices (Installing and Maintaining Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment)
2357-312: Applying environmental legislation, working practices and the principles of environmental technology systems
2357-313: Overseeing and organising the work environment (Electrical Installation)
2357-315: Planning, preparing and installing Mandatory wiring systems and associated equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-316: Terminating and connecting conductors, cables and flexible cords in electrical systems
2357-317: Inspecting, testing, commissioning and certifying electrotechnical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-318: Diagnosing and correcting electrical faults in electrical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-399: Electrotechnical Occupational Competence (AM2).
Knowledge Units
2357-601: Understanding Health and Safety legislation, practices and procedures (Installing and maintaining electrotechnical systems and equipment)
2357-602: Understanding environmental legislation, working practices and the principles of environmental technology systems
2357-603: Understanding the practices and procedures for overseeing and organising the work environment (Electrical Installation)
2357-604: Understanding the principles of planning and selection for the installation of electrotechnical equipment and systems in buildings, structures and he environment
2357-605: Understanding the practices and procedures for the preparation and installation of wiring systems and electrotechnical equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-606: Understanding the principles, practices and legislation for the termination and connection of conductors, cables and cords in electrical systems
2357-607: Understanding principles, practices and legislation for the inspection, testing, commissioning and certification of electrotechnical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-608: Understanding the principles, practices and legislation for diagnosing and correcting electrical faults in electrotechnical systems and equipment in buildings, structures and the environment
2357-609: Understanding the electrical principles associated with the design, building, installation and maintenance of electrical equipment and systems.
The AM2 Practical Assessment
As the AOC for the electrical industry, the AM2 is the practical assessment that proves an individual’s competence in electrical work. It is the final part / unit that every NVQ Level 3 Electrical candidate must complete in order to gain their qualification and be eligible to apply for their JIB ECS Gold Card.
Successful completion of the AM2 is compulsory for apprentices, adult trainees or upskilling workers who seek to gain the industry-recognised qualified status that attainment of the NVQ provides.
There are currently FOUR variants of the AM2 Practical Assessment, those on the NVQ 2357 Level 3 Diploma pathway will take the core AM2.
Introducing XS Training
Founded in 2011, XS Training Ltd were one of the very first providers of Online Training Courses for the NVQ Level 3 Electrical qualification in the UK. They are one of only FIVE nationwide training providers recommended by the Joint Industry Board (JIB) – not all of which offer online courses.
Their bespoke courses are created on the Onefile E-portfolio platform, which is renowned as one of the best systems available for the assessment of NVQ qualifications.
Something else they offer which is much more unique, is the opportunity for live Remote Site Assessments at your place of work, via the camera on your mobile phone. This saves in the time, cost and often inconvenience of having assessors come to visit you on-site.
Frequently Asked Questions
About The NVQ Level 3
How long does it take to get my NVQ 3 Electrical Qualification
It is impossible to give an exact time for attaining your NVQ 3 Electrical because it will on a wide range of factors. These include; which of the three possible routes you take (or are eligible to take), previous experience, current employment position, and how much time you can dedicate to the work involved. It can take as little as 3-4 months or as much as 2 years. For the 2356 Mature Candidate Assessment route, the average is probably between 6-8 months.
How much does the NVQ 3 Electrical cost?
The cost of NVQ 3 Electrical courses is not fixed and so will vary slightly between different providers. The price range is usually between £1000 – £1300 + VAT, depending on the provider and the services they offer. There is then the cost of the AM2 Practical Assessment on top of this at around £700 – £800 + VAT.
However, cost should not be your only, and certainly the leading factor, in your choice of a training provider. More important is that you have confidence that they will provide the help and support you need to work through your NVQ.
Can I pay monthly?
Many training providers will allow you to pay monthly installments, although there is often a small surcharge for monthly payments to cover administration charges.
If you work speedily through your NVQ then please bear in mind that all payments will need to have been completed before your qualification is finalised and issued.
What is the difference between the 2356 & 2357?
The NVQ 2356 is for candidates with at least 5 years experience of working with the electrical industry and having achieved the relevant technical qualifications. This is why it is referred to as the “Level 3 for Experienced Workers” and also as the “Mature Candidate Assessment”.
The NVQ 2357 is for new entrants to the industry and those with less than 5 years experience that already hold the C&G 2365 Levels 2 & 3.
Do I need to take the AM2 as well?
Yes, all candidates for the NVQ 2356 & 2357 must take their AM2 Practical Assessment to complete their qualification, irrespective of their time and previous experience in the industry.
Apprentice candidates on the NVQ 5357 must take the slightly different AM2S Practical Assessment.
You can find out about the difference between the two assessments here.
What is the NVQ Level 3 Portfolio & how do I create it?
The NVQ 3 Electrical courses are made up of a number of Units, within which there are Performance Objectives and Knowledge Requirements, for you to work through. As you do so you compile what is known as a Portfolio to demonstrate your knowledge and competence in all areas.
The different types of assessment methods which go in to complete your Portfolio could include; photographic evidence, written responses and verbal discussions between you and your assessor.
What evidence do I need to collect?
In creating your Portfolio you work through each unit providing evidence to satisfy your assessor that you are fully competent in all areas.
The form in which you are asked and allowed to submit this evidence will vary between training providers but can include the following methods.
Photographic evidence, witness testimonies, reflective accounts, direct observation, work products & in-depth probing professional discussions with your assessor.
The methods by which you are allowed to submit your evidence may well play a major role in which training provider you choose for your NVQ Level 3.
Do I get the ECS Gold Card when I pass my NVQ 3 Electrical?
You do not get your JIB ECS Gold Card automatically upon successful completion of your NVQ Level 3 Electrical qualification – including the AM2 Practical Assessment – but you are then eligible to apply for it.
You must also have the latest edition of the Wiring Regulations BS7671:2018, pay a small fee and, as of 1st January 2019, sign up to Registered Electrician status.
What is the Bridging Unit?
The Bridging Assessment Exam is a one and half hour written exam covering 21 questions. The exam is basically filling the knowledge gap that exists between the 2365 level 2 and level 3 and the 2357 knowledge units. The candidate must take this exam under exam conditions. XS Training Ltd have a number of partners throughout the UK where the candidate can take the exam.
Do I need the Bridging Unit?
If you have completed the 2365 level 3 (or EAL equivalent) after September 2017 then you will NOT need to take the bridging assessment exam as the knowledge gap no longer exists for candidates taking the 2365 post September 2017.
How long does it take to get my NVQ 3 Electrical Qualification
It is impossible to give an exact time for attaining your NVQ 3 Electrical because it will on a wide range of factors. These include; which of the three possible routes you take (or are eligible to take), previous experience, current employment position, and how much time you can dedicate to the work involved. It can take as little as 3-4 months or as much as 2 years. For the 2356 Mature Candidate Assessment route, the average is probably between 6-8 months.
How much does the NVQ 3 Electrical cost?
The cost of NVQ 3 Electrical courses is not fixed and so will vary slightly between different providers. The price range is usually between £1000 – £1300 + VAT, depending on the provider and the services they offer. There is then the cost of the AM2 Practical Assessment on top of this at around £700 – £800 + VAT.
However, cost should not be your only, and certainly the leading factor, in your choice of a training provider. More important is that you have confidence that they will provide the help and support you need to work through your NVQ.
Can I pay monthly?
Many training providers will allow you to pay monthly installments, although there is often a small surcharge for monthly payments to cover administration charges.
If you work speedily through your NVQ then please bear in mind that all payments will need to have been completed before your qualification is finalised and issued.
What is the difference between the 2356 & 2357?
The NVQ 2356 is for candidates with at least 5 years experience of working with the electrical industry and having achieved the relevant technical qualifications. This is why it is referred to as the “Level 3 for Experienced Workers” and also as the “Mature Candidate Assessment”.
The NVQ 2357 is for new entrants to the industry and those with less than 5 years experience that already hold the C&G 2365 Levels 2 & 3.
What is the NVQ Level 3 Portfolio & how do I create it?
The NVQ 3 Electrical courses are made up of a number of Units, within which there are Performance Objectives and Knowledge Requirements, for you to work through. As you do so you compile what is known as a Portfolio to demonstrate your knowledge and competence in all areas.
The different types of assessment methods which go in to complete your Portfolio could include; photographic evidence, written responses and verbal discussions between you and your assessor.
What evidence do I need to collect?
In creating your Portfolio you work through each unit providing evidence to satisfy your assessor that you are fully competent in all areas.
The form in which you are asked and allowed to submit this evidence will vary between training providers but can include the following methods.
Photographic evidence, witness testimonies, reflective accounts, direct observation, work products & in-depth probing professional discussions with your assessor.
The methods by which you are allowed to submit your evidence may well play a major role in which training provider you choose for your NVQ Level 3.
Do I need to take the AM2 as well?
Yes, all candidates for the NVQ 2356 & 2357 must take their AM2 Practical Assessment to complete their qualification, irrespective of their previous experience.
Apprentice candidates on the NVQ 5357 must take the slightly different AM2S Practical Assessment.
You can find out about the difference between the two assessments here.
Do I get the ECS Gold Card when I pass my NVQ 3 Electrical?
You do not get your JIB ECS Gold Card automatically upon successful completion of your NVQ Level 3 Electrical qualification – including the AM2 Practical Assessment – but you are then eligible to apply for it.
You must also have the latest edition of the Wiring Regulations BS7671:2018, pay a small fee and, as of 1st January 2019, sign up to Registered Electrician status.
What is the Bridging Unit?
The Bridging Assessment Exam is a one and half hour written exam covering 21 questions. The exam is basically filling the knowledge gap that exists between the 2365 level 2 and level 3 and the 2357 knowledge units. The candidate must take this exam under exam conditions. XS Training Ltd have a number of partners throughout the UK where the candidate can take the exam.
Do I need the Bridging Unit?
If you have completed the 2365 level 3 (or EAL equivalent) after September 2017 then you will NOT need to take the bridging assessment exam as the knowledge gap no longer exists for candidates taking the 2365 post September 2017.