Why I Chose to Retake the Full 18th Edition Wiring Regulations Course

New Pragmatic Consulting Trainer/Assessor Darren recently returned to the classroom to refresh his knowledge of the latest IET Wiring Regulations. Here, he explains why he chose to complete the full three-day course, despite already holding a current 18th Edition qualification.

Last week, shortly after joining Pragmatic Consulting as a Trainer/Assessor, I took the opportunity to refresh and update my knowledge by completing the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations course, BS 7671:2018 + Amendment 4 (2026).

Although I already held a current 18th Edition qualification, I originally completed it back in 2020, when Amendment 1 had just been introduced. Since the Wiring Regulations have now progressed to Amendment 4, I felt it would be far more beneficial to attend the full three-day course rather than simply take the one-day update programme.

It also gave me the chance to sit the examination again and ensure my knowledge was fully aligned with the latest requirements.

I’m pleased to say that I successfully completed the course and examination on Friday, 4 September.

A different approach to learning

One of the highlights of the training was the delivery by James, who facilitated the course. Unlike many modern training programmes, James doesn’t rely on PowerPoint presentations. Instead, his approach is centred entirely on the Wiring Regulations themselves and developing the skills needed to confidently navigate The Regs.

I’ll admit that I was initially a little sceptical. As someone used to structured slide decks and visual aids, the thought of three days without PowerPoint seemed unusual.

However, within the first hour, it became clear that James’s method was highly effective. His knowledge of the subject matter was exceptional, and his focus on using the regulations book as the primary learning tool encouraged a much deeper understanding of the content.

What stood out most was his ability to bring the regulations to life through practical examples, discussion and real-world application.

By the end of the course, I not only felt more confident navigating BS 7671, but also came away with a greater appreciation for the importance of understanding the regulations rather than simply memorising them for an exam.

What’s changed with Amendment 4?

Some of the changes introduced through Amendment 4 include:

• New safety requirements for RCDs and AFDDs
• Updates to inspection, testing and certification procedures
• Functional earthing and equipotential bonding for ICT/data systems
• Low-voltage prosumer and battery storage installations in Part 8
• Revisions to Section 710 – Medical Locations

These are changes that I would not necessarily have been aware of without taking the time to complete the update.

For me, that reinforced the value of keeping my knowledge current. Holding a previous qualification doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve kept up with everything that has changed since you took it.

Which 18th Edition course is right for you?

Here at Pragmatic, we offer three options depending on your existing qualification and experience.

If you do not currently hold an 18th Edition certificate, you will be best undertaking the full three-day BS 7671:2018 + Amendment 4 (2026) course, including the examination.

If you already hold a previous 18th Edition qualification, such as City & Guilds 2382-18 or an equivalent, we also offer a one-day update course designed to help you upgrade your knowledge to the latest BS 7671:2018 + Amendment 4 (2026).

If you are an experienced electrical professional and are confident in your knowledge of BS 7671:2018 + Amendment 4 (2026), you can also opt to take the examination without attending the course. This provides an opportunity to formally validate your knowledge of the latest IET Wiring Regulations, including the changes introduced through Amendment 4.

However, if you’re like me, even though you’ve passed an earlier 18th Edition course, you may still benefit from taking the full three-day course.

I certainly have no regrets that I did.

Back to the classroom

Overall, it was an excellent learning experience and a valuable refresher on the latest changes introduced through Amendment 4.

I’d like to thank James and the team at Pragmatic Consulting for delivering such an engaging and informative course. It was a great way to refresh my knowledge as I begin my role as a Trainer/Assessor, and I’m looking forward to putting that knowledge into practice.