One week on and we’re still full of pride that JTL electrical apprentice Frankie Mcall is the 2025 SPARKS Magazine Learner of the Year!
Portsmouth-based Frankie, is a second-year apprentice employed by Cardinal Electrical and undertakes his training with JTL at South Hampshire College Group, Eastleigh Campus. He was crowned winner after taking part in the prestigious national final in Birmingham last Thursday, where he was competing against the best up and coming electrical industry talent from right across the UK!
The SPARKS Learner of the Year competition is a national showcase of the UK’s most talented Level 2 and Level 3 electrical learners. Organised annually by SPARKS Magazine, the contest begins with six regional heats held across the country. Frankie secured his place in the final by winning the South East Heat back in February 2025.
The grand final, held on 2nd and 3rd April at our Birmingham JTL training centre, saw the six regional winners go head-to-head in a live practical installation challenge. Over the course of two days, apprentices were tested on their technical skill, accuracy, and ability to work under pressure, with Frankie emerging as the overall winner.
Frankie Mcall said:
“It’s been a great experience competing in SPARKS Learner of the Year and to have won the competition is an incredible feeling. I’m in my second year of my apprenticeship with JTL and I know this is the industry I want to be in, using my skills to create a lifelong career.
“I’m really grateful to my Training Officer, Dan Hatton, for all his support, and to my tutor and everyone who is supporting me.”
Dan Hatton, JTL Training Officer and mentor to Frankie,said:
“A fantastic achievement by Frankie. He was recognised by his Tutor at an early stage and has done brilliantly to live up to that potential. Winning against more experienced apprentices is a testament to his quality of work. Big thanks to Paul from Eastleigh for nominating Frankie and to Cardinal Electrical for supporting his development and participation. A fantastic result for all involved.”
Congratulations again to Frankie, as well as Dan Hatton, his JTL Training Officer; Cardinal Electrical Ltd, his employer; and Paul Austin, his Tutor from South Hampshire College Group who nominated and championed him all the way!
For people interested in following in Frankie’s footsteps, applications for JTL apprenticeships are currently open – visit website.