College opens first Central London test centre for trainee electricians
City of Westminster College has opened an Achievement Measurement 2 (AM2) Skill Test Centre – the first such centre in Central London. This means trainees now have a convenient location at Paddington Basin to take the industry tests needed to qualify as an electrician.
The launch was attended by a variety of leading industry bodies, training providers and employers and gave visitors a chance to view the excellent facilities and talk to the team who run the Centre.
The AM2 Centre has received full approval from National Electrotechnical Training (NET), the official awarding body, and is already busy taking bookings from employers, training providers and colleges who require full recognition and grading for their apprentices and students.
Stephen Plant, NET Development Manager, said: "The AM2 is an essential test for electrical apprentices - measuring competence, knowledge and regard for health and safety.
“City of Westminster College's investment in an AM2 Skill Test Centre in the heart of London means more choice for apprentices and employers, and will help to ensure that NET and training providers satisfy current and future industry demand for highly-skilled electricians."
Martin Payne, representing the leading training provider Building Services Industry Training (BEST), said: “From an electrical industry point of view, it’s a great addition to have an AM2 Centre in Central London – and the facilities here are outstanding.
“This will undoubtedly help to build on BEST’s growing working relationship with the College and this new facility now gives all AM2 candidates - apprentices, NVQ learners and those who need to meet employment specifications - the opportunity to take the test.”
Ian Russell, London Regional manager for the leading training provider JTL said: “We have an excellent working relationship with City of Westminster College and its AM2 Training Centre is a welcome addition to the other outstanding facilities available in the capital.
“City of Westminster College’s first-rate training, testing and technical resources in its AM2 Centre will play a valuable role in educating more electrical apprentices who, despite the current economic downturn, will be essential to meet present and future construction needs.”
Colin Beddall, Head of School and Business Development for Technology at the College, said: “We are constantly working to ensure we meet the current and future needs of industry and the development of an AM2 Centre came about as a direct response to our discussions with businesses.
“This is a strategic and planned investment and complements our already excellent portfolio of technology and construction training facilities to serve London and the south-east.”