Understanding the Role of an End-Point Assessor

0

It has been a little while now since the move from the old ‘Apprenticeship Frameworks’ to the new ‘Apprenticeship Standards’ but we thought it was worth revisiting the role of an End-Point Assessor. If you already hold an Assessor qualification, or are thinking of becoming an Assessor, this may well be a route worth considering. Anyone who holds an Assessor qualification can become an EPA, as there is often some initial development where you will be required to understand the assessment methods for EPA.

One thing we will have a look at is the difference between an On-Programme Assessor and an End-Point Assessor as the two are often mixed up. Let’s have a look at what End-Point Assessment is so that you can understand how the role of an Assessor fits in with this.

What is End-Point Assessment?

Under the old framework system, apprentices were continually assessed throughout their programme by their training provider. The traditional role of the Assessor/Trainer was more about building trust and acting as a coach/mentor for the apprentice.

Under the new standards, apprentices complete all of the training and on-the-job experience and are then assessed at the end by an Independent End Point Assessor. Whilst formative assessments can still be carried out throughout the apprenticeship; the final assessment has to be carried out by someone who has no involvement in the on-programme part.

What are the requirements of becoming an End-Point Assessor?

Now this is the important part, there are 2 essential requirements in order for you to become an EPA:

  1. A valid Assessor qualification

Whilst there are several different Assessor qualifications that you can take, the one that is going to enable you to become a fully qualified Assessor is the Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA). This covers a knowledge unit, a workplace assessment unit, and a unit on assessing in a vocational environment. All of which are essential to understand for End-Point Assessment.

  1. Current experience in the role you will be assessing

As you will be making decisions about the competence of apprentices, it is vital that you are aligned with the latest industry standards and practices. Therefore, the experience required often includes evidence of working within the specific sector, not just assessing within it.

How to improve your chances of becoming an EPA

Although we harp on about CPD quite a bit, it is for good reason! By ensuring your CPD is up to date, you will be staying up to date with both your technical and Assessor expertise. Technology is constantly evolving, and many new standards refer to assessment methods involving digital equipment. Here are some of our top ways in which you can improve your CPD:

  • If you are a newly qualified Assessor, it is a great idea to shadow an experienced assessor
  • If shift work is something applicable to your industry, a few part-time shifts may help to refresh your knowledge
  • Whilst in the current climate attending exhibitions and conferences is not possible, some industries are moving these online

It also may be beneficial to have an IQA qualification. This is something a lot of End-Point Assessment Organisations are asking of their End-Point Assessors, so it’s worthwhile thinking about.

How to find work as an EPA

One thing to bear in mind about becoming an EPA is that you will only be visiting your learner once. This is right at the end of their apprenticeship). This means that you may have to cover a wider geographical area than normal in order to find enough work. You will probably spend either half a day or a full day with the apprentice. During this time, you’ll likely be reviewing their portfolio, and carrying out observations.

Here are some great LinkedIn groups to help you source EPA roles:

We hope this has been a helpful guide into the role of an End-Point Assessor. If you would like any further information about any of the qualifications we have discussed, or how to take the next steps, please call our team on 01205 805 155 or email training@brooksandkirk.co.uk