Employer guidance

General information

The FICA has been designed to test the wide range of practical skills and knowledge that a newly qualified electrician may face in a domestic, commercial or industrial setting. Successful completion of the FICA is the final step an Apprentice/Adult Trainee takes before he/she is qualified as a SJIB Installation Electrician.

Providing your Apprentice/Adult Trainee with support while they prepare for the FICA will increase the likelihood of them successfully completing the FICA on their first attempt. Sitting the FICA without the necessary experience and preparation is likely to result in a disappointing result and will offer little benefit.

We have developed a FICA self-assessment checklist. This checklist will help you identify any areas where your Apprentice needs additional practical experience and/or to build knowledge. If you would like guidance when preparing a practical development plan to help with FICA preparation, contact your SECTT Training Officer who will be able to provide additional support.

FICA information nights

It is important that Apprentices attend the FICA information sessions that are delivered by their SECTT Training Officers. Employers are also invited to attend the FICA information sessions. This is a great opportunity to get an overview of the FICA and gain additional guidance that will help with preparation. Your SECTT Training Officer can also deliver this information in an informal meeting. Speak to your Training Officer for further information.

More detailed information on each of the separate sections of the FICA can be found in Candidate Guidance.