uksel

tried to read most or all of the replies but there's so many please forgive me if i repeat something but i'd like to give my thoughts in as few words as possible

is the JIB thing good or bad - i think it's good, it doesn't always suit everyone (as we can see) but it's a good idea in general

the JIB doesn't declare you competent, or an electrician, your qualifications and experience dictate that. the JIB grading system is used nowadays as proof of competence, not saying you are comepetent just because you have a card, but; it saves prospect employers/contractors/clients having to look at all of your individual certificates, once they see you have a valid JIB card it covers a lot of clientel for insurance liability purposes or just peace of mind - not simply that they want 'the best electrician' or even believe that this is what it means.

it is unfortunate that they have decided upon requiring an NVQ3 to be graded as an electrician as so many formal apprenticeships use the C&G routes, but; their employers can offer recommended grades when applying for their cards and the majority of people get accepted on this premise, it's not all black and white

also:

dr rosenrosen said: The c&g is seen as theory based qualifications in there eyes and the nvq 3 as the practical work based skills side of things

does not mean that people with NVQ's are less knowledgable because of a lack of theory. i did NVQ's 2 & 3 as a part of my apprenticeship, but also had to complete ONC in electrical and electronic engineering & HNC in electrical power

so i hope you weren't insinuating that people with NVQ's are less educated

wattsup said: The JIB in fact pay cards in sparks union fees, to the now owned american union. amicus.

this stopped in january this year, JIB members now have to make their own contributions

I'm a grumpy welsh man too!