Paul Frew MLA welcomes return of Electrical Installation Course at NRC Campus in Ballymena

North Antrim MLA Paul Frew

There’s good news for aspiring electricians in North Antrim as Northern Regional College (NRC) has confirmed that the Year One intake for its Electrical Installation course will go ahead at both the Ballymena and Newtownabbey campuses for the 2025/26 academic year.

The announcement follows the successful recruitment of staff, ensuring that local young people can once again access this vital trade qualification in Ballymena.

The decision has been warmly welcomed by North Antrim MLA Paul Frew, who has been a staunch advocate for restoring the course after its absence last year left many prospective students without options.

Speaking on the development, Mr Frew said:

“I have fought hard for this because I realise how big a disadvantage this is for young people in the constituency looking to learn a decent trade and make a living. Opportunity was lost last year, and that should never be repeated. I’m glad that the College has followed up with applicants impacted by last year’s circumstances so they may have a choice now.”

In a letter addressed to Mr Frew, NRC confirmed the positive update, stating:

“Thank you for contacting Northern Regional College. We are pleased to inform you that the College has successfully completed staff recruitment, and as a result, we are now live for recruitment for the Year One intake of the Electrical Installation course at both the Ballymena and Newtownabbey campuses for the 2025/26 academic year.

The NRC added:

“The College has also followed up with applicants impacted by last academic year’s circumstances to ensure they are aware of the new opportunities.”

The reinstatement of the course is expected to provide a lifeline for young people eager to enter the electrical trade, an industry that remains in high demand across Northern Ireland. With recruitment now underway, NRC is encouraging interested applicants to visit their website for more details and to secure their place.

For North Antrim, this development not only restores a key educational pathway but also underscores the importance of local advocacy in ensuring opportunities for the next generation.

As Mr Frew put it:“This is about giving our young people a fair shot at building a future right here in our community.”