Retraining Advice needed.

[chris65]

Hi guys, I need advice on the best and quickest way i can qualify for my ECS card.
I completed my JIB apprenticeship many years ago (236/1 236/2) but fell ill with kidney failure 12 yrs ago, I fortunately received a transplant and so wish to return to work,I've had a job offer from a friend who was an apprentice of mine and now has his own company.

I realise that I need to take my ECS H&S exam first and also my 2382 before I can apply for the ECS card. I will then continue with my I&T after that.

I am having a problem getting onto a 2382 course at my local college due to lack of take up, and so insufficient numbers to run the course. My question is am I able to complete an online course and then sit the exam, or do i need to complete the course with a private company. I have inquired about courses with a few companies but they are quoting between £700- £1000 to take the course and exam !!!!!!!!
I have to pay all fees myself, as despite what I had been led to believe there is no Government funding to help me return to work. Those costs are beyond me, and I feel like they are taking the ****.
Any advice would be great, cheers guys , Chris

PS I am based in Newport South Wales.
I'll be offline until tomorrow so will reply then. Thanks again.

 

[telectrix]

some centres will allow you to sit the exam alone. those course fees you have quoted are a complete rip off. colleges charge about £250 for course and exam. ring round some other colleges in your area. i had the same with my local college... not enough take up, so had to go to crewe, 15 miles away. still reasonably local. 1 other point... if you are signed on the dole, they might pay for it.

 

[guest119]

The dole has put a couple of my mates through it, one failed!

Boydy

 

[chris65]

The dole has put a couple of my mates through it, one failed!

Boydy

Thanks for the reply Boydy, as I wasn't on the dole or claiming any thing from the DHSS there is no funding available. If I was under 25 or made redundant I would be ok, sadly not.

I'm very confident of passing the exam, sat plenty of mock tests on the lap top and know my way round a regs booK, its getting on a course for the right price that's the problem. Had 20 yrs working as a spark before I was ill so should be ok, I just want to take the full course for my own piece of mind.
Thanks again for the reply, I'll let you know how I get on, cheers Chris

 

[chris65]

Hi Telectrix, I'm on the list with the local colleges at £320 +vat, its the take up numbers that are the problem.
Had a quote today for a 3 day course for £450 +vat but its 100 mile round trip every day , so not ideal.
Will wait and see what comes up from the college in Feb.
Thanks for the reply, Chris