Course overview
Spend a single, focused day in Brighton getting fully equipped to carry out portable appliance testing. This 195 GBP + VAT course (9am – 4pm) pairs a clear morning grounding in the theory with an afternoon spent working hands-on with professional PAT testing machines, so by the time you leave you’ll be able to inspect, test and log appliance safety checks in line with UK requirements. There’s no written exam — you’re assessed practically and continuously throughout the day — and it suits absolute beginners with no electrical background just as well as experienced testers wanting a refresher. All equipment is provided, and tea and coffee are on us through the day (please sort your own lunch).
Morning in Brighton – The Knowledge Behind Safe Testing
- What the Health and Safety Executive expects when it comes to electrical equipment in the workplace
- How the current IET Code of Practice shapes in-service inspection and testing, and why it matters
- Where your duties sit under the Electricity at Work Regulations
- Telling appliance classes apart and knowing what each one needs from a test
- Carrying out visual inspections, spotting faults early, and keeping accurate records
Afternoon in Brighton – Testing for Real on the Machines
- Getting properly hands-on with the professional PAT testing machines you’ll use on the job
- Working methodically through the testing routine for each class of appliance
- Reading both your visual checks and your test results to pin down a fault
- Logging your findings correctly and being able to explain what the numbers tell you
- Setting sensible re-test intervals that reflect the risk and the environment
Because so much of your Brighton day is spent on the kit rather than in front of a slide deck, you’ll walk away ready to put what you’ve learned straight into practice. Group and multiple-delegate bookings are available, and we can also run the course on-site at your own premises.
Venue
St Richards Community Centre, Egmont Road, Brighton & Hove, BN3 7FP.
Getting to the venue
- By train: Portslade is the nearest station (about 0.8 km, a 12 minute walk); Aldrington and Fishersgate are next, with Hove and central Brighton further out.
- By bus: Brighton and Hove routes 5, 5A and 5B stop nearby at The Grenadier.
- By car: The Knoll Estate has plenty of free on-street parking.
Duration
1 Day (9am – 4pm)
Entry Requirements
No electrical background is required.
The course is delivered in a clear, accessible way, making it suitable for complete beginners.
PAT Testing Certification
Pass the practical assessment on your Brighton course and you’ll be awarded a Skills Training Group PAT Testing Certificate — a certificate of competence confirming you’ve been trained and assessed as capable of carrying out portable appliance testing.
One point we’re often asked to settle: you do not need a formal qualification like City & Guilds 2377 to test portable appliances legally.
UK health and safety law sets no specific qualification or certificate as a legal requirement — what it does insist on is that the person doing the testing is competent. The Health and Safety Executive describes that competence as the right combination of training, knowledge and practical experience, and that’s precisely what this one-day course, aligned with the current IET Code of Practice, is built to give you.
Your certificate then stands as clear, recognised evidence of that competence whenever an employer, client, insurer or auditor asks to see it. There’s no fixed legal expiry date attached to it, though topping up with a refresher every few years is a sensible habit.
Expert Trainers
Our Brighton courses are taught by PAT testing specialists with strong industry knowledge and extensive hands-on experience. They are skilled at breaking down technical concepts into simple, practical steps, ensuring every learner feels supported throughout the day.
Excellent
PAT Testing Course Reviews
Who Should Attend?
This course is ideal for:
- Facilities and building managers
- Maintenance teams
- Health & safety staff
- Business owners wanting to handle testing in-house
- Anyone aiming to start a PAT testing service
- Office managers seeking a cost-effective alternative to outsourcing
Book Your Place Today
Our PAT testing courses in Brighton run regularly throughout the year and are intentionally kept small to maintain a high standard of training. The venue is conveniently located for learners across East Sussex, offering easy access, parking options, and complimentary refreshments.
Join thousands of learners nationwide who have chosen Skills Training Group to develop essential electrical safety skills.
Book Online NowFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous electrical knowledge?
No prior electrical knowledge is needed. Our Brighton PAT testing course is built for complete beginners, starting from the basics in the morning before moving into hands-on practice. We cover everything you need to test portable appliances competently and safely. It also works well as a refresher if you already have some experience and want to update your skills.
Will I receive a recognised certificate?
Yes. On completing the day in Brighton you receive a Skills Training Group PAT Testing Certificate, a certificate of competence. There is no legal requirement to hold a formal qualification like City and Guilds 2377; UK health and safety law and the HSE require the tester to be competent, and this certificate is recognised evidence of that competence.
Is practical training included?
Absolutely. The morning in Brighton covers the theory, then the whole afternoon is hands-on portable appliance testing using professional PAT testing machines. You will carry out real inspections and tests yourself, guided by your trainer and aligned with the current IET Code of Practice. All equipment is provided, so you simply turn up ready to learn.
Can I start a PAT testing business afterwards?
Many Brighton delegates take the course to launch their own PAT testing service. You will leave competent in portable appliance testing and holding a recognised certificate of competence that demonstrates you can test safely. There is no legal requirement for a formal qualification to carry out PAT testing, so the certificate is solid evidence of competence for clients.
Is lunch provided?
Lunch is not included, so please bring your own or pop out at the break. Tea and coffee are available throughout the day to keep you going. The Brighton course runs 9am to 4pm, with theory in the morning and practical PAT testing in the afternoon, so there is a natural midday pause.
Can I book places for a team?
Yes, group and multiple-delegate bookings are very welcome in Brighton. If you would rather train your team without travelling, we also offer on-site PAT testing training at your own premises on request. It is a popular option for Brighton businesses wanting several staff competent in portable appliance testing at once. Get in touch and we will arrange the details.
What should I wear?
Just wear comfortable, practical clothing for a hands-on day. The Brighton afternoon involves working with professional PAT testing machines and portable appliances, so everyday workwear is fine. All PAT testing equipment is provided, so you do not need to bring any tools or your own tester, only yourself and a willingness to learn the practical side.
Is there a test at the end?
There is no stressful written exam. Assessment on our Brighton course is practical and ongoing throughout the day, so your trainer confirms your competence as you carry out portable appliance testing for real. This relaxed, hands-on approach suits beginners and experienced delegates alike, and it means you finish the day genuinely confident in your PAT testing ability.
Do you offer support after the course?
Yes. The Brighton course is aligned with the current IET Code of Practice, which gives you a clear reference to keep using afterwards. You leave with a Skills Training Group certificate of competence and the practical skills to test on your own. If you would like to arrange a refresher or on-site training later, just get in touch.
Does the certification expire?
Your Skills Training Group PAT Testing Certificate has no fixed legal expiry. As good practice, and to keep your competence current with the IET Code of Practice, we recommend a refresher every few years. Plenty of Brighton delegates return for a top-up to stay confident and up to date with portable appliance testing as guidance evolves.