Now lawbreakers get training preference

This summer I spent much time trying to get the educational establishment to allow a very capable 14 year old – my son – who already holds proven credentials/qualification under the Electricity At Works Regulations (BS7671), to gain a City & Guilds qualification.

I approached both school and college to allow him a one day release in order that he may gain the 1870 C&G before he leaves school and therefore be able to enter directly into this industry with a choice of employers.

He gained his limited qualifications at the age of 13 years and I have little doubt that he could, within weeks, sit the exams for 1870 and pass with ease.

So what was the result of my enquires to the Education Dept of his school and Manchester College of Arts and Technology College (MANCAT)?

I was informed that only those, who have been excluded from school (not the type your would wish to employ in the security industry) would be eligible to take part in any course work and qualify before school leaving age.

I am fully aware that this is a minority case, but it does point out the foolishness of our education system … It will take and train those who break the law but not those who work within the law, who already hold the only qualifications they can obtain ... and those not held by many an installer.

It will not allow the use of existing resources, that may be of great benefit to both the individual and society to reduce crime, whilst ensuring health and safety.

Yes, your editorial is right in that we do have problems with training at all levels, and it is a sad fact that many may try to gain qualifications and fail to do so, despite being very capable.

Such unqualified engineers may then be of the opinion that qualifications do not matter, especially if reinforced by meeting the few who are qualified and not being impressed by their skills/knowledge.

Perhaps what we need is a campaign, to get training providers and colleges to write to Security Installer, giving information on how and when to apply and to shame those education establishments who care little for the security of our nation, but do care for bums on seats, regardless of the subject.

I am a member of the British Society of Criminology, a Diplomat of the International Institute of Security, a locksmith, electrician, and alarm engineer. I hold various degrees relating to criminology and I am a qualified teacher of adults. I may be contacted at thealarmengineer@aol.com.