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Qualification updates - March 2026

Published on: 16 Mar 2026

Welcome to our qualification updates for March 2026. We’re pleased to bring you the latest updates on qualifications this month. This edition covers a range of changes, including qualification extensions, new releases, document updates, and withdrawals.

Updates:

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in the Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electronic Security Systems (Qualification Code: 610/7046/4)

Type of change: New qualification

A new Level 3 single-unit award that provides learners with an understanding of the design, installation, and commissioning of electronic security systems. It focuses on developing the knowledge and practical skills for video surveillance systems, intruder alarms, and access control to enable new sector entrants, existing engineers from aligned industry sectors, and those who have only carried one specialism to diversify and broaden their knowledge and skills. This qualification is expected to be ready for release in April 2026.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 (Qualification Code: 610/7005/1)

Type of change: New qualification

A new Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 18th Edition, aligned to Amendment 4. This will replace 603/3298/0 and automatic approval for the new award will be given to centres who deliver the existing qualification. This qualification is expected to be ready for release in April 2026, please keep an eye out for further updates.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering (Qualification Code: 600/1028/9)

Type of change: Qualification withdrawal

EAL Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering 600/1028/9 is being withdrawn due to low demand for this qualification. There are similar qualifications available if Centres looking for alternative qualifications for example, Level 2 PEO or any of the aviation and aerospace qualifications at Level 3.
Any existing registered learners will have until 31/03/2029 to complete their qualification.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Materials Processing and Finishing (Qualification Code: 600/9795/4)

Type of change: Qualification withdrawal

EAL Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Materials Processing and Finishing 600/9795/4 is being withdrawn due to low take up and minimal demand. Any learners that may still be on programme will have until 31/03/2029 to certificate against this qualification.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 (Qualification Code: 603/3298/0)

Type of change: Qualification withdrawal

This qualification has been replaced by 610/7005/1, which is updated to BS 7671:2018+A4:2026. Centres with 603/3298/0 on their remit will be given automatic approval to add 610/7005/1. The final certification/start date 31/07/26, the exam will only be available up to 15/10/26, and the final certification date will be 31/12/26.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation (Qualification Code: 600/9331/6)

Type of change: Amendment to qualification structure

A new pathway with an updated Wiring Regulations unit (18ED3/04). A new qualification specification, amendment document, and delivery unit will be published to reflect changes. It is anticipated that this will be released for use in April, please keep an eye out for further updates.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Electrical Installation (Qualification Code: 601/4563/8)

Type of change: Amendment to qualification structure

A new pathway with an updated Wiring Regulations unit (N18ED3/04). A new qualification specification, amendment document, and delivery unit will be published to reflect changes. Update in qualification specification to Section 6.1 - guidance on permitted reference materials for use in assessments. It is anticipated that this will be released for use in April, please keep an eye out for further updates.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings Experienced Worker Qualification (Qualification Code: 610/2859/9)

Type of change: Amendment to qualification structure

A new pathway with an updated Wiring Regulations unit (18ED3/04). A new qualification specification, amendment document, and delivery unit will be published to reflect changes. Updates in the qualification specification to Section 5 (minor changes for clarity), and further guidance added to Section 6.1 - 'Guidance on permitted reference materials for use in assessments' and Section 6.3 - 'Guidance on use of assessment rigs'. It is anticipated that this will be released for use in April, please keep an eye out for further updates.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification (Qualification Code: 601/7345/2)

Type of change: Amendment to qualification structure

New pathways with an updated Wiring Regulations unit (NETK3/18ED4). Another new pathway will be available for non-apprentices from 01/05/26. There are also changes to assessment of performance requirements from 01/05/2026. A new qualification specification, amendment document, and delivery unit will be published to reflect changes. It is anticipated that this will be released for use in April, please keep an eye out for further updates.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings (Qualification Code: 610/1335/3)

Type of change: Amendment to qualification structure

A new pathway with an updated Wiring Regulations unit (NETK3/18ED4). Another new pathway will be available for non-apprentices from 01/05/26. There are also changes to assessment of performance requirements from 01/05/2026.A new qualification specification, amendment document, and delivery unit will be published to reflect changes. It is anticipated that this will be released for use in April, please keep an eye out for further updates.