Issuu

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AUTUMN 2026

THE ULTIMATE TEST EXTREME ALTITUDE. FREEZING TEMPERATURES. ONE VERY BIG DROP. WILL THIS MULTIMETER SURVIVE? FIND OUT INSIDE…

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E D I TEODRI'TSONRO' ST EN O T S EP A RHKI P S

EDITOR: CELIA MATTHEWS celia.matthews@sng-group.co.uk SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: LEE OWEN design@sng-group.co.uk DIGITAL MANAGER: PHOEBE MANSFIELD phoebe.mansfield@sng-group.co.uk

WELCOME TO THE START OF A BRAND-NEW ACADEMIC YEAR.

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: PATRICK BLORE patrick.blore@sng-group.co.uk

he future is electric. From renewable energy and electric vehicles to smart homes and battery storage, there has never been a more exciting time to join the electrical industry.

PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: SARAH HERNE sarah.herne@sng-group.co.uk EVENT MANAGER: REISS BASSETT reiss.bassett@sng-group.co.uk MARKETING MANAGER: SAMANTHA COLE samantha.cole@sng-group.co.uk MANAGING DIRECTOR: ZOË TANNER zoe.tanner@sng-group.co.uk PRINTERS: Stephens & George, Wales

GENERAL ENQUIRIES

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DISCLAIMER

This publication is produced by SNG Publishing Ltd, trading as The SNG Group (SNG). All content and artwork are © SNG or its contributors. All brands, logos and titles published under The SNG Group, including associated magazine and digital titles, are trademarks of SNG unless otherwise stated. No part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, transmitted or published in any form or by any means without prior written permission. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this publication, SNG does not verify any claims or other information appearing in advertisements or sponsored content and accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the content, artwork, opinions or advice contained herein. This publication does not constitute professional advice. Advertisements are accepted for publication subject to SNG’s standard terms and conditions of advertising.

Whether you're studying full-time, starting an apprenticeship or continuing your training, you're developing skills that are in demand across the UK and beyond. I've met thousands of electrical learners over the years, and every one of them started exactly where you are now. Success comes from getting involved, asking questions, practising your skills and being willing to learn. If you're looking for a challenge, why not enter our SPARKS Learner of the Year or SPARKS Female Skills competitions? They're free to enter and a fantastic opportunity to build confidence, win great prizes and get noticed by future employers. I hope you enjoy this edition and find plenty of inspiration along the way. Here's to a successful year ahead.

Celia Matthews Editor

“THE ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE THAT EDUCATES THE NEXT GENERATION”

SHOW US YOUR SPARKS! Got a copy of SPARKS in your hands? Follow @SPARKSMagazine and tag us in your photos. Whether you're at college, on site or revising at home, you could even feature in a future edition.

Search for SPARKS Magazine

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AUTUMN 2026

SPARKS

CONTENTS

CONTENTS FEATURES

01 WELCOME 04 DIGITAL TOOLKIT 05 REVISION TOP TIPS 06 SPARKS LEARNER OF THE YEAR 2027 08 INTERVIEW: MEET THE NEXT GENERATION 10 SPARKS FEMALE SKILLS 2027 12

THE ULTIMATE TEST WITH FLUKE

29 YOUR GUIDE TO COLLEGE LIFE 32 SMARTER PROTECTION, LESS SPACE BY SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

34 THE AM2 EXPLAINED 35 THE FEEDBACK SANDWICH 38 EPIC FAIL! 40 MULTI-SKILLS COMPETITIONS

08 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE 16 HEALTH & SAFETY 19 ELECTRICAL CABLES 24 OHM'S LAW

AUTUMN 2026

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SPARKS

DIGITAL TOOLKIT

DIGITAL COLUMN

P H O E B E M A N S F I E L D D I G I TA L M A N A G E R

SHOW WHAT YOU CAN DO!

A few simple steps can help you show your skills, make connections and get noticed by the right people.

V C

GET THE BASICS RIGHT

SHOOT GREAT PHOTOS

Think of your profile as your digital CV. If an employer found you today, would they know what you do?

Great work deserves a great photo. You don't need an expensive camera, just an extra couple of minutes to get the shot right.

Profile photo: use a clear, good quality photo, and show your trade if you can. A picture of you on the job works well. YOUR BIO: Keep it short and tell people: ■ What you're studying or training in ■ Your apprenticeship level or year ■ Any qualifications or achievements

you already have

BEFORE YOU POST:

Tidy up: ■ Remove clutter where possible Get closer: ■ Show the detail rather than relying on zooming in

Use natural light where possible: ■ It will usually give you a clearer image

Take several angles: ■ Choose the best one afterwards

SHOW YOUR PROGRESS: Let people see how far you're coming on: ■ Share qualifications and training

you've completed

■ Celebrate new skills and milestones ■ Show that you're committed to

Check the background: ■ Make sure there's no customer information, addresses or paperwork visible, and get permission first

learning and developing

Show your progress, take pride in your work and let people see what you can do. You never know where your next opportunity could come from.

AUTUMN 2026

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“THINK OF YOUR PROFILE AS YOUR DIGITAL CV”

FOLLOW THIS YEAR'S COMPETITION WINNERS!

REVISION TOP TIPS

SPARKS

REVISION THAT ACTUALLY STICKS A new year at college, a fresh start – and somewhere down the line, assessments. But here's the good news: the learners who find revision easiest aren't necessarily the cleverest ones.

SO WHE

ART? RE DO YOU ST

r three-hour to sit down fo e You don't need often. Pick on le, litt just need a es typ sessions. You ble ca as week, such topic from the s, and otection work or how RCD pr Rather than it. on s te inu spend ten m ain, test your notes ag simply reading see what d an ge r the pa yourself. Cove ber. you can remem e, and it's one trieval practic This is called re ake knowledge m to liable ways of the most re your own head answer out of e stick. Pulling an ading the sam re an th l rfu we is far more po e. nth tim notes for the te

MAKE IT MAK

E SENSE

isn't separate u cover in class The theory yo in the or you do on site from the work e thing, m sa e th it's ct, workshop. In fa u're learning ways. When yo explained two or cable ng sti te otection, rk you about circuit pr installation wo e th re tu pic e lik s calculations, ck cli g When somethin did last week. it. ly forget that, you rare pic out to explain a to A good trick is it to a g hin ac te e loud, as if you'r know n do that, you friend. If you ca e halfway, you'v ck stu t ge u it. If yo vise next. re to bit e th just found

“THE TRICK IS JUST STARTING BEFORE YOU FEEL YOU NEED TO”

THREE THINGS TO TRY THIS WEEK

1 2 3

Test yourself on one topic for ten minutes, without your notes Link a piece of theory to a real job you've done or watched someone else do Explain something you've learned to someone else

Revision is a skill, the same as terminating a cable or carrying out an inspection and test. You're not born good at it – you get good at it by doing it. Every small session builds a little more confidence, and by the time assessments come round, you'll be ready instead of panicking. So start small, start now, and trust that it adds up. A few minutes this week could save a lot of stress later on.

DESIGNED

SEARCH: SPARKS MAGAZINE

• GAIN CONFIDENCE • IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS • BOOST YOUR CV • WIN EPIC PRIZES

WHY ENTER?

2027

learner of the year

FOR ELECTRICAL STUDENTS

NATIONAL COMPETITION TO FIND OUT MORE

SCAN ME!

# s pa r ks l oy 2 7

2027

TO P

BR A N D S

C O N TA C T Y O U R L E C T U R E R T O TA K E PA R T

B ACK E D

B E C O M E T H E N E X T S PA R K S L E A R N E R O F T H E Y E A R W I N N E R !

WIRED FOR SUCCESS

TO INDUSTRY STANDARDS & JUDGED BY PROFESSIONALS

SPARKS

MEET THE NEXT GENERATION

M OT I VAT E D PROUD CONFIDENCE

CONFIDENCE

PROUD

M OT I VAT E D

BRIGHT SPARKS Meet Marcus and Gracie, two young electricians who threw themselves into competitions and came away with more confidence, sharper skills and bigger plans. Read on to find out why it's worth giving competitions a go.

MARCUS PAN

GROWING

E V O LV I N G

RESILIENCE

arcus is an electrical learner and competition finalist who finished as the runner-up in the SPARKS Learner of the Year competition 2026, narrowly missing the top title.

Q: What made you choose the electrical trade? A: I wanted to do a job that was hands-on and thought electrical would be the best trade for me as it’s always growing and evolving. Q: You were runner-up in our SPARKS Learner of the Year. How did that feel? A: It felt great knowing all my hard work was worth it. Q: What did you take away from being part of the competition?

@sparky_pan22_

A: That our generation has lots of motivated and hardworking people. Q: What keeps you going when you face a challenge? A: That no challenge is impossible and there’s always a way. Q: If you were starting again, what’s one thing you’d do differently? A: I would start focusing on my portfolio earlier as it will jumpstart your career. Q: In one line, what would you say to someone thinking about becoming an electrician?

RESILIENCE

A: Start early, it will be worth it!

“NO CHALLENGE IS IMPOSSIBLE AND THERE’S ALWAYS A WAY” RESILIENCE

AUTUMN 2026

CONFIDENCE

› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

PROUD

GRO

MEET THE NEXT GENERATION

OW I N G

E V O LV I N G

RESILIENCE

CONFIDENCE

PROUD

Q: You won our SPARKS Female Skills competition and the Screwfix Trade competition. What was that like? A: There is no feeling like winning these competitions. I just feel so proud now to look back on all my hard work and see what it has allowed me to achieve.

Q: As a woman in the trade, what would you say to other girls thinking about it?

Q: What’s the best thing you’ve learned so far? A: Resilience. Not everything is going to go your way first time so just keep trying and as time goes on everything will fall into place.

A: I wouldn’t be scared to try new methods, use new tools, compete in new competitions and meet new people. I would put myself even more out of my comfort zone to help me progress quicker.

G R OW I N G

Q: If you were starting again, what’s one thing you'd do differently?

M OT I VAT E D

A: DO IT! Ask around, look online and see what options there are for you out there (it’s not as scary as you think, I promise).

PROUD

“THERE IS NO FEELING LIKE WINNING THESE COMPETITIONS”

CONFIDENCE

A: I wanted to get a hands-on apprenticeship so felt as though a trade would be suited to me best and electrical was the one that interested me the most.

RESILIENCE

Q: What made you choose the electrical trade?

GRACIE DONAGHY

racie was the winner of the SPARKS Female Skills 2025 competition and Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026. She is an apprentice electrician working towards her AM2, hoping to qualify very soon.

@gracielectrical

SPARKS

Q: In one line, what’s your advice to someone just starting out?

RESILIENCE

CONFIDENCE

SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

E V O LV I N G

A: Ask questions and listen, everyone started out where you are now.

PROUD

AUTUMN 2026

SEARCH: SPARKS MAGAZINE

• GAIN CONFIDENCE • IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS • BOOST YOUR CV • WIN EPIC PRIZES

WHY ENTER?

2027

Female Skills

FOR ELECTRICAL STUDENTS

NATIONAL COMPETITION TO FIND OUT MORE

SCAN ME!

# s pa r ks f s c 2 7

2027

DESIGNED TO INDUSTRY STANDARDS

TO P

BR A N D S

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LEAD THE CHARGE

JUDGED BY INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS

Why we sent a multimeter to the edge of space The Ultimate Test.

We knew it was tough. We wanted to know how tough. Sound familiar? Meters fall. Off ladders, off scaffold boards, from that pocket that turned out not to be a pocket. Then they might spend the drive home rattling around the footwell of your van. None of this is in the brochure, but it’s the truest test your gear will ever face. You run it without meaning to, every week.

Tough isn’t enough

Surviving a trip to the edge of space was only part of the test. In the field, durability matters. But after everything you put a meter through, it still has to be safe, accurate and dependable. That’s why we test our tools, including the 87V MAX, in some pretty extreme conditions. From operating temperatures as low as -20°C to high humidity and simulated altitudes of up to 12,000 metres.

WIN ME Win a Fluke 87V MAX True-rms Digital Multimeter – scan QR code to win UK 16+ only. Win 1 × Fluke 87V MAX multimeter. No purchase necessary. One entry per person. Closes 31 October 2026. T&Cs apply – scan QR code for full details.

But for this test, we took it further

We pushed those limits. We took it to the edge of space. -40°C became -60°C. 12,000 metres became 32,000 metres. That’s nearly three times our specified storage altitude and around 16× the altitude covered by normal IEC test-equipment conditions. Then we dropped it back down to Earth. But we didn’t just want to know if it survived. We wanted to know if it still worked. So when it came back down, we put it through our Fluke-approved tests. It passed. Built to last. Built for confidence. Built for you.

Why we care

Early in a career, test gear is real money, and every brand on the shelf tells you theirs is the toughest. You shouldn’t have to take anyone’s word for it – ours included. That’s why we’d rather show you what our meters survive rather than tell you.

The drop, in numbers • Temperature up there – 60°C • Peak Altitude – 32,000 meters • Air Density vs surface of the earth - Sea Level ~1.225 kg/m³ (100%) vs 32,000m ~0.0135 kg/m³ (~1.1%) • Air Pressure Sea Level vs Peak altitude - Sea Level ~101.3 kPa vs 32,000m ~0.87 kPa • The way down – 49 minutes, by controlled descent • Back on the ground – tested against spec. 100% pass.

Monday: edge of space. Tuesday: back on the job

Watch the full video and drop in action. #TheUltimateTest

The right meter is the one that fits the work you’re doing now — and where you’re heading next. Here’s what to think about before you buy.

Our pick Fluke T6-1000 A straightforward, reliable starting point for everyday electrical checks.

Good habit Look after your meter and it will look after you. Keep it clean, store it properly and check regularly for damage. Good habits help your tools last longer and keep you working safely.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: HEALTH & SAFETY

HEALTH & SAFETY QUIZ REVISION GUIDE BY LEWIS BLAKEMORE Salford City College Group

Health and safety is everyone's duty on site, ensuring safe practices prevent injury and accidents.

Who is primarily responsible for providing a safe Ans. workplace?

What do the Electricity at Work Regulations focus on?

Employees

Waste disposal

Test your health and safety knowledge with these questions. Tick the box next to the correct answer for each question.

Employers

Electrical safety

H E A L T H

S A F E T Y

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

SPARKS

Clients

Fire safety

Visitors

Manual handling

Which legislation covers general workplace safety?

Which role must follow safety procedures and report hazards?

COSHH

Employee

Control of Noise at Work

Employer

WEEE Regulations

Inspector

Health and Safety at Work Act

Client

AUTUMN 2026

› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

Ans.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: HEALTH & SAFETY SPARKS

What does COSHH regulate?

Ans.

What is the purpose of PPE?

Electrical systems

Increase productivity

Working at height

Eliminate all risks

Waste recycling

Protect workers from hazards

Hazardous substances

Replace risk assessments

What should you do first in an emergency involving injury?

Which is an example of an environmental impact?

Call for help

Faster working

Leave the site

Air pollution

Continue work

Improved safety

Ignore the situation

Reduced cost

What is RIDDOR used for?

Q10

What is the safest approach before using PPE?

Fire prevention

Ignore hazards

Accident reporting

Remove or reduce risks

PPE selection

Increase workload

Waste disposal

Work faster

Ans.

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free. SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

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ELECTRICAL CABLES QUIZ REVISION GUIDE BY LEWIS BLAKEMORE Salford City College Group

Understanding cable types, construction and selection helps electricians work safely, efficiently and to industry standards.

See how much you know about electrical cables with these questions. Tick the correct answer for each question.

What is the main purpose of an electrical cable?

What is the purpose of cable insulation?

To store energy

Improve appearance

To carry electrical current safely

Prevent electric shock

To generate electricity

Increase current

To reduce voltage

Reduce weight

What is the conducting part Ans. of a cable made from?

Which cable type is commonly used in domestic wiring?

Plastic

Steel wire

Rubber

Twin and earth

Copper or aluminium

Fibre optic

Steel

Coaxial

Ans.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: ELECTRICAL CABLES SPARKS

Continued ››› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

SPARKS

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: ELECTRICAL CABLES

What can happen if a cable is overloaded?

Safe Wiring Application

It becomes stronger

Steel Wire Armoured

It cools down

Standard Wire Assembly

It overheats

Sealed Wire Access

It changes colour safely

What is the function of the outer sheath Ans. on a cable?

Which regulation helps ensure safe cable installation in the UK?

Conduct electricity

Building Act

Improve flexibility only

IET Wiring Regulations

Increase voltage

Environmental Act

Provide protection

Road Safety Act

What factor affects cable selection?

Q10

Why are armoured cables used?

Colour only

For decoration

Length only

For flexibility

Current-carrying capacity

For mechanical protection

Brand

To reduce cost

What does SWA stand for?

AUTUMN 2026

Ans.

› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

Ans.

Stay . t n e r r cu Stay . e l b i d cre

. rogress ad for p p h c n u r la ou it’s you tools y k-box ic t a h it, the t s it w ju ’t d n n re, a ance is nt is he Compli endme g market. m a 1 7 t BS 76 hangin The nex ad in a fast-c le ay. need to age tod re pack o c s n io Regulat Wiring r u o egs r e Ord etTheR

org/G theiet.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology is registered as a Charity in England and Wales (No. 211014) and Scotland (No. SC038698). Futures Place, Kings Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2UA, United Kingdom.

SPARKS

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: ELECTRICAL CABLES

Q11

What is a flexible cable typically used for?

Q12

What is a common cause of cable damage?

Fixed wiring

Mechanical impact

Portable appliances

Correct installation

Underground supply only

Proper insulation

High voltage only

Correct sizing

Q13

Use the words in the word bank to complete the sentences.

Ans.

An electrical cable is used to carry electrical ................................................ safely. The ................................................ is the part of the cable that carries electricity.

Ans.

WORD BANK Overheating Protection

................................................ prevents electric shock. The outer sheath provides ................................................ to the cable. ................................................ is a common cable used in domestic installations. Too much current can cause ................................................ .

Conductor Current Insulation Twin and earth

Q14 Draw a line to match each term with its correct description. TERM

Ans.

DESCRIPTION

Twin and earth

Used for portable appliances

Flexible cable

Carries electrical current

Conductor

Commonly used in domestic wiring

Insulation

Prevents electric shock

SWA cable

Provides mechanical protection

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free. 22

AUTUMN 2026

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Convenient test ports: Located on both sides for quick continuity checks in any position.

Maximum visibility: Transparent window and strip length guide for easy visual inspection.

Wide compatibility: Suitable for solid, stranded, and flexible conductors from 0.14 mm² to 4.0 mm² rated up to 32 A. Compact design Perfect for installations in tight / crowded spaces.

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TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: OHM'S LAW

OHM'S LAW QUIZ REVISION GUIDE BY LEWIS BLAKEMORE Salford City College Group

Tick the correct answer for each question.

O H M ' S

Ohm's Law allows electricians to calculate voltage, current and resistance, ensuring electrical circuits are designed and tested safely.

Put your knowledge of Ohm's Law to the test with these exercises.

L A W

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

SPARKS

AUTUMN 2026

What is the formula for Ohm's Law?

What unit is used to measure current?

V=I+R

Volts

V=I×R

Ohms

V=I÷R

Amps

V=R÷I

Watts

What does the symbol I represent?

What unit is used to measure resistance?

Resistance

Amps

Power

Volts

Current

Ohms

Voltage

Joules

› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

Ans.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE: OHM'S LAW SPARKS

If voltage increases and resistance stays Ans. the same, what happens to current?

Calculate the resistance: V = 20V, I = 4A

It increases

5Ω

It stays the same

80Ω

It decreases

16Ω

It stops

24Ω

Calculate the current: V = 10V, R = 5Ω

What happens to current if resistance increases?

It increases

It decreases

It doubles

50A

It becomes zero

Calculate the voltage: I = 3A, R = 4Ω

Q10

Why is Ohm's Law important?

It replaces safety procedures

10V

It helps calculate electrical values safely

12V

It only applies to large circuits

1.3V

It measures power directly

Ans.

Go to sparks-magazine.co.uk to download exercise answers for free. SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

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YOUR GUIDE TO COLLEGE LIFE

SPARKS

GETTING ORGANISED FOR THE NEW YEAR Whether you're brand new or returning to college, these tips will help you settle into a routine and stay on top of things from day one. THESE HABITS WILL HELP YOU START STRONG: ■ Build a Routine — Sort out your travel, clothes and kit the night before. A calm start sets up a good day. ■ Know Your Timetable — Keep it somewhere you'll actually see it — on your phone, in a planner, or on the wall at home. ■ Stay on Top of Coursework — Don't let tasks pile up. A little and often beats a last-minute rush. ■ Use a Planner or App — Note down deadlines, assignments and anything you've been asked to bring in. Keeping everything in one place makes life easier. ■ Balance College and Home — Give yourself proper downtime too. Rest helps you focus when it counts. ■ Turn Up Ready — On time, prepared and ready to learn. It's the simplest way to make a good impression.

“A LITTLE ORGANISATION NOW SAVES A LOT OF STRESS LATER”

TOP TIP FIND A SYSTEM THAT WORKS FOR YOU AND STICK WITH IT. THE BEST PLANNER IS THE ONE YOU'LL ACTUALLY USE.

SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

SPARKS

YOUR GUIDE TO COLLEGE LIFE

KITTING YOURSELF OUT Having the right kit, and looking after it, is part of becoming a competent electrician. Here's how to get equipped sensibly for the year ahead. WHAT YOU'LL ACTUALLY NEED: ■ The Basics First — Check with your college before you buy anything. Many will give you a list of exactly what's needed for your course. ■ PPE Matters — Safety boots, eye protection and gloves aren't optional. Get them early, look after them, and wear them properly. ■ Build Your Toolkit Gradually — Start with the essentials and add as you go. You'll learn which tools you reach for most. ■ Buy Quality Where It Counts — You don't need the most expensive tools, but reliable tools are worth investing in. ■ Label Everything — Tools have a habit of wandering. Mark yours clearly so they find their way back. ■ Look After Your Kit — Clean tools last longer and work better. A few minutes at the end of the day saves money in the long run.

TOP TIP A WELL-KEPT TOOLKIT TELLS EMPLOYERS YOU TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR WORK.

AUTUMN 2026

› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

“LOOK AFTER YOUR TOOLS AND YOUR TOOLS WILL LOOK AFTER YOU”

YOUR GUIDE TO COLLEGE LIFE

SPARKS

FINDING YOUR FEET

Starting somewhere new can feel daunting, but everyone around you was once in the same position. Settling in, asking questions and being yourself will get you further than trying to know it all.

TOP TIP SET YOURSELF ONE SMALL GOAL FOR THE TERM. REACHING IT BUILDS THE CONFIDENCE TO SET THE NEXT ONE.

HOW TO SETTLE IN AND GROW IN CONFIDENCE: ■ Don't Compare Yourself to Others — Some people may arrive with more experience, but everyone has things to learn. ■ Ask Questions — Asking when you're unsure shows you want to learn. It's a strength, not a weakness. ■ Get to Know People — A friendly word goes a long way. Good classmates make the whole year more enjoyable. ■ Speak Up if You're Struggling — Whether it's coursework, confidence or something outside college, let your tutor know sooner rather than later. ■ Support Each Other — Everyone started as a beginner. A group that helps each other learns faster and enjoys it more. ■ Look Ahead — Picture where you'd like to be by next summer, and take it one small step at a time. Progress adds up.

“YOU DON'T HAVE TO KNOW EVERYTHING AT FIRST – JUST BE READY TO LEARN” SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

SPARKS

SMARTER PROTECTION, LESS SPACE

SMARTER PROTECTION, LESS SPACE Board space is tight on almost every job. Schneider Electric's new Acti9 iC60 H3 3-Phase RCBO does the same protective work in under half the room.

s more commercial and industrial buildings move towards electrification, installers face a real challenge. You need to improve safety and meet regulations, while working with less and less space inside the distribution board.

Schneider Electric has expanded its Acti9 range to help with exactly that. The new Acti9 iC60 H3 3-Phase RCBO, or Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent Protection, guards against overloads, short circuits and earth leakage faults, helping you meet the requirements of BS 7671 Wiring Regulations.

THREE MODULES, NOT SEVEN The biggest advantage is its size. It takes up three modules in a distribution board, where some earlier solutions needed up to seven. That frees up room for extra circuits and equipment, which makes a real difference on refurbishment jobs where board space is tight.

“THREE MODULES IN THE BOARD, WHERE OTHERS NEEDED UP TO SEVEN” BUILT FOR SMARTER BUILDINGS Used alongside Schneider Electric's PowerTag Energy Sensors, the device also supports energy monitoring. Building operators can track electricity use circuit by circuit through digital energy management systems, spotting where efficiency could improve and costs could come down. As the industry moves towards smarter, more sustainable technology, compact kit like the Acti9 iC60 H3 helps you save space, improve safety and wire up the connected buildings you will be working in for years to come.

SCAN ME!

SIMPLER TO INSTALL The Acti9 iC60 H3 includes Type A residual current protection, so it suits installations with modern electronic equipment. Fewer wiring connections are needed, so it goes in faster.

AUTUMN 2026

› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

For more info about the Acti9 iC60 H3 3-Phase RCBO.

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THE AM2 EXPLAINED

THE AM2, EXPLAINED Everyone on an electrical apprenticeship finishes with the AM2. Here's what the assessment involves, and why it's worth knowing early.

WHAT IT IS Think of the AM2 as the driving test of your apprenticeship. You spend months learning the skills, then the assessment is where you put everything into practice and are marked against strict criteria.

ON THE DAY Strict exam conditions apply, so no electronic devices and no help from anyone else. An independent assessor marks your work as the assessment progresses.

WHICH ONE YOU'LL TAKE

WHY LOOK NOW

You’ll sit either the AM2S or the AM2D, depending on whether you’re on the Installation & Maintenance Electrician apprenticeship or the Domestic Electrician apprenticeship.

Passing the AM2 is one of the final pieces of the puzzle before you qualify. Even in your first year it’s worth knowing what’s ahead. The NET website covers each section in detail, with checklists and tips on preparing well. Looking early takes a lot of the worry out of it later.

HOW IT'S SPLIT The assessment runs over three days, broken into sections covering topics such as safe isolation, installation, inspection, testing and certification, and fault finding.

SCAN ME! “EVEN IF IT’S EARLY DAYS IN YOUR APPRENTICESHIP WHY NOT TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO DO DURING THE ASSESSMENT?” 34

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AM2S

AM2D

THE FEEDBACK SANDWICH

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FEEDBACK LIKE A PRO

Whether you’re in the classroom, workshop or on site, feedback helps you improve. Learning how to receive it professionally and give it constructively is a skill that will benefit you throughout your career. TAKING FEEDBACK WELL

WHY FEEDBACK MATTERS As an apprentice or learner, you’ll receive a lot of feedback. Tutors, assessors and employers all want to help you develop your skills and become the best tradesperson you can be. Nobody gets everything right first time, and you’re not expected to. Feedback helps you spot what you’re doing well and where you can improve. The key is to see it as guidance rather than criticism. Good feedback focuses on the work, not the person. If someone takes the time to show you a better way to do something, they’re helping you learn faster.

The best learners don’t know everything – they stay open to learning. ■ LISTEN FIRST – Hear the whole point before

you respond.

■ DON’T TAKE IT PERSONALLY – Feedback is

usually about the task, not about you.

■ ASK QUESTIONS – If something isn’t clear, ask

for an example or demonstration.

■ SAY THANKS – A simple “Thanks, I’ll work on that”

shows professionalism.

■ ACT ON IT – The real value of feedback comes

when you use it to improve.

WHEN FEEDBACK FEELS UNFAIR Occasionally, feedback may feel unfair or poorly delivered. The important thing is how you respond. ■ STAY CALM – Keeping your cool helps you

think clearly.

■ ASK FOR CLARIFICATION – “Can you show

me what you mean?” often turns a difficult conversation into a useful one.

■ BE RESPECTFUL – If you disagree, explain

your point calmly and professionally.

■ MOVE FORWARD – Don’t dwell on negative

comments. Focus on what you can learn and improve.

“FEEDBACK ISN’T CRITICISM – IT’S A SHORTCUT TO GETTING BETTER” SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

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THE FEEDBACK SANDWICH

GIVING FEEDBACK As your career progresses, you may find yourself helping newer apprentices, supervising jobs or even running your own team. Being able to give feedback well is just as important as receiving it.

One of the simplest techniques is the Feedback Sandwich.

HERE'S AN EXAMPLE: "You did a great job with that installation next time just double-check your terminations. You're really improving."

STEP 1: START WITH A POSITIVE

Highlight something the person

has done well.

The improvement point sits in the middle, supported by encouragement on both sides. The message is clear, and the person is more likely to take it on board.

WHY IT WORKS People are more receptive to feedback when they feel respected. The Feedback Sandwich helps you be honest while still being supportive.

STEP

ST ONE 2: S U G G E

IMPROVE

e work.

sed on th

cu ific and fo

r, spec Keep it clea

MENT

“THE BEST FEEDBACK BUILDS YOU UP WHILE IT PUTS YOU RIGHT”

STEP 3: FINISH WITH ENCOURAGEMENT Leave them feeling confident about improving.

AUTUMN 2026

Whether you're helping a classmate, mentoring an apprentice or leading a team, constructive feedback builds confidence and improves standards.

› SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK

THE FEEDBACK SANDWICH

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CLASSROOM TASK – TURN IT AROUND Some feedback comes out harsh or unhelpful. Using the Feedback Sandwich, rewrite each line below so it sounds constructive and encouraging.

UNHELPFUL FEEDBACK

YOUR IMPROVED VERSION

That looks terrible.

You're too slow.

You didn't follow instructions.

You've made a right mess of that.

Did you even read the instructions?

That's not how I'd have done it.

You're going to have to redo all of this.

Were you not paying attention?

I haven't got time to keep showing you.

TOP TIP One of the most professional things you can do is stay calm, listen carefully and focus on improving. The people who keep learning throughout their careers are usually the ones who go furthest.

SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

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EPIC FAIL

ALL CABLES TIED, JOB DONE!

Not all electricians are lit, some are downright shocking! We’ve teamed up with Crap Electrical UK to bring you our regular gallery of wacky wiring and lame lighting.

CHECK OUT

@CrapElectricalUK on Facebook for more epic fails!

NOW WITH RUNNING WATER

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AT LEAST THE CABLE IS CLEARLY LABELLED

EP OUCH! HOW MANY FAULTS ON THIS ONE?

EPIC FAIL

THE SUPPLY CABLE WON'T FREEZE NOW!

C I P

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BENDING RADIUS LOOKS BANG ON!

FAIL

SPAGHETTI JUNCTION

TWIN SOCKET WITH FLEX - SMART!

SPARKS-MAGAZINE.CO.UK ‹

AUTUMN 2026

IN SK AC IL TI LS O N

TURN “HUH?” INTO “AHA!”

SPREAD THE WORD...

GET YOUR MATES IN OTHER TRADES INVOLVED! We don’t just do electrical! We run hands-on, skills-based competitions across multiple trades - giving learners the chance to show what they’re made of!

learner of the year 2027

PLUMBING

Female Skills 2027

PLUMBING

GET INVOLVED. GET RECOGNISED. WIN PRIZES.

learner of the year

2027

PAINTING & D E C O R AT I N G

CARPENTRY & JOINERY

Painting & Decorating

carpentry & joinery

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