National Grid Apprentices: Advancing Electrical and Control Systems Expertise at Grantham College

At Grantham College & University Centre, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge, industry-aligned training for the next generation of electrical engineers and technicians. Through our partnership with National Grid, apprentices gain hands-on experience in electrical control systems, circuit analysis, and fault-finding—essential skills for careers in power distribution, industrial automation, and electrical maintenance.

What sets our programme apart is our team of expert lecturers with direct industry experience, ensuring that apprentices are learning from professionals who have worked in real-world electrical and control environments. This unique approach bridges the gap between theory and practical application, preparing students for the challenges of modern electrical engineering.

Learning in Action: Control Systems & Fault Diagnosis

Recently, our National Grid apprentices engaged in an electrical control and fault-finding training module, covering the following key areas:

• Lathe Control Circuits & Industrial Motor Control – Apprentices explored hold-on latch circuits, wiring low-voltage (24V DC) control circuits and high-voltage (415V AC) motor circuits, simulating real-world industrial motor control applications​.
• Fault Identification & Rectification – Hands-on troubleshooting of short circuits, open circuits, earth faults, high-resistance faults, and cross polarity issues using structured diagnostic techniques​.
• Kirchhoff’s Circuit Laws & Power Distribution – Applying Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL) and Kirchhoff’s Current Law (KCL) to analyse series and parallel resistor networks, calculating voltage drops and current flow across complex circuits​.
• Safe Circuit Testing & Isolation Procedures – Conducting continuity, insulation resistance, and polarity testing in compliance with IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671), reinforcing best practices for working with live and de-energized systems.

Hands-On Training with Industry-Relevant Equipment

In dedicated workshop environments, apprentices wired and tested lathe control systems, focusing on integrating safety interlocks, emergency stop circuits, and micro-switch sensors to enhance machine safety. This exercise mirrors real-world applications where electrical engineers design and maintain industrial control panels to ensure operational safety and efficiency​.

For the fault-finding exercises, apprentices applied a structured diagnostic approach—starting with visual inspections, followed by electrical testing using multi-meters and insulation resistance testers. By methodically isolating faults, they developed critical problem-solving skills required in high-voltage power systems and industrial automation environments​.

Bridging Education and Industry

Through this National Grid apprenticeship programme, students at Grantham College & University Centre gain practical, job-ready skills tailored for the electrical and power industries. Learning directly from industry professionals, our apprentices graduate with hands-on experience, technical knowledge, and the ability to diagnose and repair complex electrical systems.

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