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Apprenticeships

Network Cable Installer Apprenticeship


Course
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About

The Network Cable Installer Apprenticeship is tailor-made for those new to the industry and experienced engineers keen to enhance their skills and knowledge. This comprehensive curriculum provides apprentices with the necessary expertise to flourish as proficient network cable engineers. Key focus areas include health & safety, copper and fibre optic cabling, network equipment handling, rigorous testing protocols, project management, strategic network design and effective quality management. Experienced mentors provide robust guidance throughout the course, nurturing apprentices' knowledge and skills growth. This dynamic 12-month programme culminates in an end-point assessment of a practical demonstration and a professional discussion.

Network Cable Installers

Network cable installers are crucial in establishing and maintaining the digital infrastructure ecosystem. Their responsibilities include installing, terminating, testing, and certifying network cable infrastructure, adhering to national and international industry standards. This infrastructure is essential for communication between various digital devices, such as computers, servers, smart devices, and security equipment, both internally and globally. Installers work in diverse environments, ranging from the Inside Plant (ISP) for in-building cable installations to the Outside Plant (OSP) for external connections between buildings and cities. Their projects vary greatly, from small tasks like installing a single outlet in a customer's premises to large-scale operations involving thousands of outlets or fibre cable installations over significant distances. Their role is physically demanding, often involving the handling of heavy equipment, and they play a key part in an organisation’s cyber security strategy by ensuring physical and data security.

Installers' duties are varied, encompassing the installation of copper and fibre optic cables, which are critical for connecting various devices and providing high-speed broadband. They are responsible for interpreting project plans, constructing network equipment cabinets, and installing cable support systems. Furthermore, installers must maintain network equipment, perform testing, provide certification, and perform maintenance as required. Safety is paramount in their work, particularly in hazardous areas like construction sites or railways. They also manage a range of specialist tools, ensuring they are well-maintained and calibrated. Additionally, installers are committed to delivering high-quality customer service, accurately meeting customer requirements, maintaining high standards in their work, and utilising workforce management systems for workflow activities and time tracking.

 


 

Typical Job Roles

  • Network Cable Installer
  • Structured Cabling Installer
  • Telecoms Cable Installer

 


 

 

Typical Programme Length

12 Months

 

Programme Level

Level 3

 

Delivery Method

Blended Learning through online learning, live tutor-led classes and 1 to 1 mentoring.

 

End Point Assessment

1-day practical assessment and a professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and an assignment

 

Professional Recognition

Network Cable Installer Certificate

Full member of the Institute of Telecommunications Professionals

ECS Network Infrastructure Installer Gold Card

 

Funding

Apprenticeship Levy paying employers can use their funds for this programme. Employers not paying the Levy can get up to 95% funding. 

 


 

Curriculum

The curriculum aligns with the apprenticeship standard and is delivered through one-to-one mentoring, live tutor-led lessons and learning material in the learning management system. All learners typically complete the entire curriculum, but where prior learning and or experience has taken place, then a reduced curriculum will be discussed.

Module Title

Description

Health and Safety

Focuses on understanding responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, identifying health and safety risks during cable installation, and actions to mitigate risks. Also covers asbestos awareness and Working at Height regulations.

Personal Development

Encourages understanding of workplace processes for cyber security and the use of workforce management systems. Also includes the importance of maintaining accurate documentation for successful project completion and customer handover.

Copper Cabling

Covers the principles of digital information transmission over copper networks, Ohm's Law, electrical characteristics of copper cables, and installation techniques. Also includes the understanding of cable types and networking equipment.

Testing Telecoms Cables

Addresses the testing parameters for copper and fibre cable certification in line with industry standards like BSEN 50346, including routine test equipment service and calibration.

Fibre Optic Cabling

Focuses on the transmission principles of digital information over fibre networks, light propagation, attenuation in fibre channels, and installation techniques. Also includes the effects of emerging technologies on installation practices.

Investigating and Defining Customer Requirements

Emphasises understanding the customer's organisation, structure, communication requirements, and roles involved in the project. Also covers the criteria for inspecting network components and meeting quality standards.

Network Equipment

Explores the key components of structured cabling infrastructure, IT network architecture, cable types, and networking equipment like routers and switches.

Projects and Network Design

Involves design specifications and documentation, including floor plans, patch lists, and rack face layout plans. Also covers the segregation of data and electrical cables and assembly of equipment racks/cabinets.

Quality Management and Workflow

It encompasses adherence to National and International standards, manufacturers' best-practice guidelines, and the impact of poor-quality workmanship on communication links. Also includes the use of workforce management systems for workflow activities.

 



Endpoint Assessment

This is an apprenticeship standard, so all apprentices must go through the endpoint assessment process, also known as EPA. To complete the endpoint, apprentices will be required to:

  • Develop an online portfolio
  • Complete a discussion with an endpoint assessor
  • Practical Demonstration and Questions

 


 

Value to Apprentices

This apprenticeship programme offers immense value to apprentices by providing a comprehensive and practical learning experience that covers the full spectrum of network cable installation and maintenance. By engaging with various modules, from Health and Safety to Network Equipment and Quality Management, apprentices gain a deep understanding of the field's theoretical and practical aspects. This knowledge is crucial for developing technical proficiency in handling various cable types and networking equipment and ensuring safety and compliance with industry standards. Additionally, the programme equips apprentices with critical project planning, customer service, and cyber security skills, encouraging well-rounded professional development. This holistic approach to learning ensures that apprentices are not only prepared to meet the current demands of the industry but are also equipped with the adaptability and foresight to navigate future technological advancements, making them valuable assets in their respective fields.

 


 

Value to Employers

This apprenticeship programme is highly valuable for employers in the network cable installation sector, as it equips apprentices with a comprehensive skill set that directly benefits the workplace. By ensuring that apprentices are well-versed in a wide range of relevant areas, from the intricacies of copper and fibre optic cabling to adherence to health and safety regulations, the programme prepares individuals to handle the complexities of modern network infrastructure effectively. Including modules on customer requirements and quality management means that apprentices are trained in technical proficiency, understanding, and delivering on client expectations, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction. Furthermore, their knowledge of cyber security and the latest industry standards ensures that the workforce remains up-to-date with evolving technologies and regulatory requirements, significantly reducing the risk of errors and enhancing the overall efficiency and reputation of the business. This comprehensive training ultimately leads to a more competent, versatile, and safety-conscious workforce poised to drive operational excellence and business growth in the ever-evolving field of network cable installation.

 

Network Cable Installer Apprenticeship Standard

 

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