"Max Demian" wrote in message
o.uk...
On 06/12/2019 11:33, Dave Liquorice wrote:
On Thu, 5 Dec 2019 22:56:42 +0000, Robin wrote:

ISTM such questions would test how much they /already/ know - which
could vary enormously through chance (eg whether or not they had a
parent who did stuff). What the employer wants to know* is whether or
not they have what it takes to /become/ an electrician.

A big part of which is an interest in the subject. Demostrated by
knowing such "chance" facts. Also bear in mind that these days when
you leave school at 16 there is an swful lot of pressure to gone on
to A levels, college or apprentiship, actually getting a job is the
bottom of the "approved" list of pathways at that life stage. Not
that that there are many jobs for 16 year olds out there, as the 18
year olds who aren't pushed onto to Uni after A levels or college are
far more "qualified". To get any form of support a "low achiever" 16
year old has to take what ever is offered, even if they have
absolutely no knowledge or interest in it what so ever.

I'd have thought that was better assessed by testing things all school
leavers ought to know - e.g. basic arithmetic, algebra and
comprehension.

That ought to be indicated by the GCSE grades in Maths and English.

Oh, and a test based on a 13A plug would also tend to put recent
immigrants at a disadvantage so arguably unlawful as indirect racial
discrimination.

Not just immigrants, how long of moulded plugs been madatory? Anyone
below about 40 probably hasn't knowingly seen a wireable 13 A plug
let alone had to rewire one.

A lot of, perhaps most, modern appliances with separate plugs have
rewirable ones even if though they are already fitted. Check out table
lamps in your local store.

But hardly ever need to be rewired by the owner, so its
a silly test for who might be useful as an electrician.