SELECT backs new Rogue Trainers campaign launched by TESP



SELECT has welcomed an engaging new campaign from The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) which highlights the risks associated with unscrupulous training providers. 

Using the strapline ‘Don’t get taken for a ride by Rogue Trainers’, an animated video shows a man getting drawn into a house of horrors by false claims, which turn out not to be all they seem.

The campaign is aimed at people outside of the industry looking to become a qualified electrician and is designed help them avoid training providers who don’t deliver on their promises.

Fiona Harper, Director of Employment & Skills, said: “This campaign echoes and reinforces SELECT’s commitment to proper training and obtaining the correct qualifications.

“There is no short cut to becoming an electrician, but many people are at risk of taking the wrong training path if they’re not aware of the correct routes to follow.

“The messaging from TESP shows that although so-called ‘electrical’ courses may look impressive to the untrained eye, on inspection they don’t lead to qualified status and are driven purely by financial concerns. 

“We would urge all SELECT Members to watch and share this video and help spread the word about rogue trainers.”



In addition to the video, TESP has produced online advice with top tips for choosing a training provider, along with red flags to look out for when researching a provider’s claims. 

Ruth Devine, TESP Chair and Managing Director of SJD Electrical, said:  “There are still too many reports of people spending thousands of pounds with companies who wilfully misrepresent where their training leads.

“Some providers use high-pressure sales techniques to trap learners with a large financial commitment, but devious contract terms mean there’s no realistic prospect of achieving the qualification.”

She added: “When so many training providers jump through hoops to do things properly and engage responsibly with industry and employers, it’s important that potential learners are aware of the pitfalls.

“The idea of ‘rogue trainers’ has been talked about in the past and, indeed, the issue of unscrupulous training providers is not new. Now TESP is taking a clear stance on these practices to shine a light on what to avoid.

“We hope that the whole electrotechnical industry gets behind us – including the reputable training providers who are doing the right thing – to help raise awareness of this campaign to the general public who may fall foul of rogue trainers when looking to become an electrician.”

Watch the video and find out more about the campaign at www.roguetrainers.co.uk