EDIT skills sep21_000_PSI_mar15 25/08/2021 18:11 Page 2
SKILLS
Understanding FESS David Scott, Managing Director of Skills for Security reveals what an apprentice on the Fire Emergency and Security Systems Apprenticeship (FESS) programme learns. Here are some practical answers to the questions he frequently hears The FESS apprenticeship is split into four pathways; • Fire Alarms Only • Security Systems Only • Fire & Security • Fire & Emergency Lighting
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ach pathway is designed to take three years, but can be completed quicker depending on the individual learner's level of experience and prior learning. The pathways are comprised of core elements which account for around 80% (i.e. Electrical Principles, Safe Isolation, Installation Practices, Health and Safety, Operational Checks and Readings, Processes and Procedures for Maintaining Systems and Takeover) and specialist subjects/disciplines chosen by the apprentice such as wiring, programming, commissioning and standards.
Year One The first year aims to give the apprentices the skills they need to complete simple tasks for your organisation under little to no supervision. This means when you ask them to install the first fix of a PIR, Camera, Control Panel or PSU, they can follow the process to install this to the correct recognised specification. The key aspects taught in year one: • H&S – which is a key attribute in apprentices achieving their apprentice ECS card • Communication – aims to improve both verbal and written skills, which ensures competency when communicating with customers • Introduction to Industry & Standards – providing an overview of the sector, key bodies and inspectorates,plus the role they play in raising standards • Cabling and Installation Practices – an overview of BS7671 and compliance • Wiring – the skills to complete first and second fix, including the wiring terminology single pole, double pole, EOL, network topology and wiring infrastructures • Practical Skills – first and second fix, measuring, cutting and safe working practices.
Year Two The second year aims to give the apprentices the skills they need to work on technical tasks independently, with little supervision. This means
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students should be able to install systems from start to finish, ensuring they are fully operational and compliant. The key aspects taught in year two: • Survey and Design – designing systems using approved industry paperwork and showing compliance with standards. • Commissioning and Handover of Systems – using the approved processes and procedures for commissioning of systems, including the key components of communication • Programming – ensuring compliance with standards and that systems are fully operational and tested • Integration – basic integration options for all systems
The second year aims to give the apprentices the skills they need to work on technical tasks independently, with little supervision
YOUR SKILLS QUESTIONS ANSWERED As part of this column you can ask David questions directly about training and apprenticeships. We will aim, to publish the question and answer in the next column. If you want to participate in this, then email info@skillsforsecurity.org.uk I am hiring someone that has some experience but no formal qualifications. Can I put them on the apprenticeship? The short answer is yes. When we induct them into the programme, we will skill scan them to identify their skill-set and place them appropriately into the correct class on the course. I am hiring someone that is in their mid to late 20's but has no industry experience. Can I put them on the apprenticeship? Yes, Government funding for apprenticeships is not determined by age.
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