This is not the latest approved version of this apprenticeship. View the latest version
This apprenticeship is in revision
Proposal approved
Occupational standard approved
End-point assessment plan approved
Funding approved
This apprenticeship standard will be reviewed after three years.
This occupation is found across the energy and utilities sectors throughout the UK.
The broad purpose of this occupation is to safely install, exchange, commission, decommission and carry out ongoing maintenance of gas and electric smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Dual fuel smart meter installations form a key part of the UK Government mandate to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy management, supporting the overall Net Zero strategy.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation would be expected to install, exchange, commission and maintain a range of metering equipment and associated components typically in a domestic dwelling. The role is physical in nature and may involve lifting and moving equipment, working at heights, working in confined spaces and working in all weather conditions. The employee will also need to interact with other trades and other utility service providers in order to complete the required work associated with the metering installation.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for carrying out safety-critical activities whilst working in customer properties, providing customer service excellence and energy efficiency advice at all times.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with a variety of people ranging from the customer, to other construction trades, utility providers, logistics support, suppliers and technical support teams.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
|
Duty 1 Install, exchange and commission gas and electrical smart metering systems on customer premises. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 2 Carry out routine maintenance on smart metering systems and associated equipment. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 3 Decommission gas and electrical smart metering systems. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 4 Use and maintain the appropriate tools and equipment. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 5 Respond to reported faults. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 6 Return the working area to a clean and tidy state, safely disposing of defective or damaged smart metering systems and recycling items where appropriate. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 7 Provide excellent customer service including providing advice and guidance on operating smart meters and ensuring full awareness of any disruption to power and heating provision. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 8 Provide energy and efficiency advice and guidance to enable customers to understand the benefits of smart meters. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 9 Identify vulnerable customers and direct them to the most appropriate support service for their needs. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
|
Duty 10 Prioritise health and safety at all times. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 |
K1: Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to work in the gas and power industries including fire safety and Safety at Work Act.
Back to Duty
K2: Regulatory compliance and the recognition of different customer needs including vulnerability as defined by Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (OFGEM) and Retail Energy Code Schedule 16.
Back to Duty
K3: Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (IGEM G11).
Back to Duty
K4: Dynamic risk assessments, associated procedures and documentation.
Back to Duty
K5: Characteristics of different smart meter categories, associated equipment and communication systems including single phase, multi-rate, single phase off multi-phase and multi-phase (electricity); and low pressure and medium pressure (gas).
Back to Duty
K6: Installation and commissioning practices and techniques applicable to smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
K7: Fault-finding, diagnosis and rectification practices and techniques applicable to smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
K8: Decommissioning practices and techniques applicable to smart meters.
Back to Duty
K9: Tools, test equipment, ladder and access systems, and personal protective equipment.
Back to Duty
K10: Gas and electrical testing and assessment procedures needed to establish the condition of the equipment and installation, and the actions needed as a result.
Back to Duty
K11: Gas and electrical engineering theories and procedures involved in the practical application of installation, exchange, commission, decommission and maintenance of smart meter and associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
K12: Electrical and mechanical principles and how they are applied in work processes and procedures to ensure safety of self and others.
Back to Duty
K13: Fuel poverty, signs and available support. Energy efficiency measures.
Back to Duty
K14: Unsafe metering equipment, supplies and installations in accordance with both MOCoP and IGEM/G/11 procedures.
Back to Duty
K15: Signs of tamper, 3rd party interference, illegal extraction and energy theft across all aspects of meters and associated equipment.
Back to Duty
K16: Low carbon technologies used within domestic dwellings used to provide energy, heating and hot water.
Back to Duty
K17: The roles of other trades, disciplines and utility service providers associated with metering installation.
Back to Duty
K18: Sustainability and energy efficiency: green technologies, alternative fuels, energy consumption, energy ratings and how they are calculated.
Back to Duty
K19: General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).
Back to Duty
K20: Principles of equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work.
Back to Duty
K21: Principles of completing work records, maintaining asset details and customer data in accordance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).
Back to Duty
K22: Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Sector specific terminology.
Back to Duty
K23: Common issues, symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety and depression, including where to go for help and the resources available.
Back to Duty
K24: Principles and policies for identifying and responding to customers with fuel poverty issues.
Back to Duty
K25: Techniques and procedures for carrying out on-going maintenance of smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
S1: Install and exchange smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
S2: Commission smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
S3: Carry out ongoing maintenance of smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
S4: Identify, diagnose and rectify faults in smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
S5: Decommission smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems.
Back to Duty
S6: Carry out dynamic risk assessment.
Back to Duty
S7: Select, use and maintain tools, test equipment, ladder and access systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Back to Duty
S8: Apply health and safety practices. Identify and report non-compliant conditions or situations.
Back to Duty
S9: Use digital technology to access job, appliance and customer information.
Back to Duty
S10: Complete work records, maintain asset details and customer data in accordance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).
Back to Duty
S11: Advise customers on energy efficiency and how to operate smart meters.
Back to Duty
S12: Communicate verbally with utility companies and other trades in order to complete tasks.
Back to Duty
S13: Identify where customers are experiencing issues around fuel poverty, and provide support and assistance through the energy provider or support services.
Back to Duty
S14: Dispose of defective smart meters or assets, and all waste.
Back to Duty
B1: Prioritise health and safety.
Back to Duty
B2: Take responsibility for work.
Back to Duty
B3: Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice.
Back to Duty
B4: Support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture.
Back to Duty
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.
Level: 2
Level: 2
Level: 2
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the dual fuel smart meter installer apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Dual fuel smart meter installer apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time dual fuel smart meter installer apprentice typically spends 14 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 3 months.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 3 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - practical assessment with questions:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Assessment method 3 - multiple-choice test:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
|
On-programme - typically 14 months
|
The apprentice must:
The qualification required is: IGEM IG/1 Supplement 3 Certification Consolidated Metering Code of Practice (CoMCoP) Matters of Gas Safety Competency Accreditation
|
|---|---|
|
End-point assessment gateway
|
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
|
End-point assessment - typically 3 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Practical assessment with questions:
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Multiple-choice test:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
|
|
Professional recognition
|
This apprenticeship aligns with:
|
|
Re-sits and re-takes
|
|
The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements:
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by the interview. It will typically contain 5 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance, for example, witness statements, rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
In a practical assessment with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by the EPAO. The EPAO decides where it takes place. The assessment environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
The practical assessment with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must only observe a maximum of four apprentices at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . practical assessment with questions
The practical assessment with questions must take 12 hours completed over 2 consecutive days. A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.
The practical assessment with questions cannot be split, other than for comfort breaks or to allow apprentices to move from one location to another. Where breaks occur, they will not count towards the total EPA time.
The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the practical assessment with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions.
The purpose of the questions is:
Questioning can occur both during and after the practical assessment. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The independent assessor must ask at least 3 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural stops between tasks and after completion of work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training.
The independent assessor can ask follow-up questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must assess the practical assessment and responses to questions holistically when deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The practical assessment with questions must take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises. The simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the practical assessment with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of tasks and questions in the case of re-sits and retakes, to minimise predictability.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the practical assessment with questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 45 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. he independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the multiple-choice test, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
The multiple-choice test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
The test can be computer or paper based.
The test will consist of 40 multiple-choice questions.
Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.
The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.
The apprentice must have 60 minutes to complete the test.
The test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.
The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The EPAO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.
The EPAO is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.
The test must be marked by an independent assessor or marker employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
A correct answer gets 1 mark.
Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.
The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the test.
The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.
The test can take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the test:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
|
|---|---|---|
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Health and safety
K3 K4 S6 S8 B1 |
Carrys out dynamic risk assessments and prioritises health and safety before, during and after work tasks. (K4, S6, B1) Applies health and safety practices and identifies and reports non-compliant conditions or situations in line with the gas industry unsafe situation procedure (IGEM G11) (K3, S8) |
Explains the importance for themselves, colleagues and the business of carrying out dynamic risk assessments and applying health and safety practices. (K4, S6, S8) |
|
Documentation
K19 K21 S9 S10 |
Completes work records using digital technology and maintains asset details and customer, job and appliance data in line with GDPR and task requirements. (K19, K21, S9, S10) |
N/A |
|
Install, exchange and commission
K6 K9 K10 S1 S2 S7 B2 |
Installs, exchanges and commissions smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems taking responsibility for their own work in line with gas and electrical engineering procedures and task requirements. (K6, K10, S1, S2, B2) Selects, uses and maintains tools, test equipment, ladder and access systems, and PPE in line with gas and electrical testing, assessment procedures and manufacturer’s guidelines and task requirements. (K9, S7) |
Installs and commissions smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems in line with gas and electrical engineering procedures achieving the outcome right-first-time to meet the needs of the task. (K6, K10, S1, S2)
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|
Maintenance and fault-finding
K7 K25 S3 S4 |
Carries out on-going maintenance of smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems in line with manufacturer’s guidelines and task requirements. (K25, S3) Identifies, diagnoses and rectifies faults in smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems in line with manufacturer’s guidelines and task requirements. (K7, S4)
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Rectifies faults in smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems in line with manufacturer’s guidelines, achieving the outcome right-first-time to meet the needs of the task. (K7, S4) |
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Decommission
K8 S5 S14 |
Decommissions and disposes of defective smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems in line with manufacturer’s guidelines. (K8, S5, S14) |
Decommissions defective smart meters, associated equipment and communications systems in line with manufacturer’s guidelines, achieving the result right-first-time. (K8, S5)
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Fail - does not meet pass criteria
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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|---|---|---|
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Sustainability
K18 |
Explains the following sustainability and energy efficiency topics and outlines how they impact their role: green technologies, alternative fuels, energy consumption, energy ratings and how they are calculated. (K18) |
N/A |
|
Communication
K22 S11 S12 |
Describes how they advise customers on energy efficiency and how to operate smart meters in line with the manufacturer’s guidance and organisation procedures and matches communication style and language to meet the needs of the audience. Describes how they communicate verbally with utility companies and other trades to complete tasks, matching style to audience and using sector specific terminology to overcome barriers to meet the needs of the audience. (K22, S11, S12)
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Explains the importance for customers and the business of meeting the needs of the audience when communicating verbally to advise customers. (K22, S11, S12) |
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Customer support
K24 S13 |
Describes how they identify customers who are experiencing issues around fuel poverty. Explains how they provide support and assistance through the energy provider or support services to meet the needs of the customer in line with the energy provider policies. (K24, S13) |
Explains the importance for customers and the business, of identifying customers facing fuel poverty issues and providing support and assistance in line with the energy provider policies. (K24, S13) |
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EDI
K20 B4 |
Describes how they support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture and explains why this is important in their work. (K20, B4) |
Explains the importance for the business of supporting a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. (K20)
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Mental health
K23 |
Describes common issues, symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety and depression and explains where to go for help and the resources available in their workplace. (K23) |
N/A |
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CPD
B3 |
Describes how they maintain and enhance their competence in their own area of practice through their commitment to continued professional development (CPD). (B3)
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N/A |
| Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | 0 | 27 |
| Pass | 28 | 33 |
| Distinction | 34 | 40 |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the practical assessment with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall merit, the apprentice must achieve a distinction in two of the assessment methods.To achieve an overall distinction, the apprentice must achieve a distinction in all three assessment methods.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Practical assessment with questions | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Multiple-choice test | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Distinction | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Distinction | Pass | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 2 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 4 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of if pass they need to re-sit or re-take one or more assessment methods, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
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Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
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Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
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EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
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Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
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Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
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Invigilator |
As a minimum, the invigilator must:
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Marker |
As a minimum, the marker must:
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The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Special considerations
The EPAO must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Health, safety and environmental legislation and regulations applicable to work in the gas and power industries including fire safety and Safety at Work Act. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
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K2
Regulatory compliance and the recognition of different customer needs including vulnerability as defined by Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (OFGEM) and Retail Energy Code Schedule 16. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
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K3
Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (IGEM G11). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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K4
Dynamic risk assessments, associated procedures and documentation. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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K5
Characteristics of different smart meter categories, associated equipment and communication systems including single phase, multi-rate, single phase off multi-phase and multi-phase (electricity); and low pressure and medium pressure (gas). Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
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K6
Installation and commissioning practices and techniques applicable to smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K7
Fault-finding, diagnosis and rectification practices and techniques applicable to smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K8
Decommissioning practices and techniques applicable to smart meters. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K9
Tools, test equipment, ladder and access systems, and personal protective equipment. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K10
Gas and electrical testing and assessment procedures needed to establish the condition of the equipment and installation, and the actions needed as a result. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K11
Gas and electrical engineering theories and procedures involved in the practical application of installation, exchange, commission, decommission and maintenance of smart meter and associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K12
Electrical and mechanical principles and how they are applied in work processes and procedures to ensure safety of self and others. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K13
Fuel poverty, signs and available support. Energy efficiency measures. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K14
Unsafe metering equipment, supplies and installations in accordance with both MOCoP and IGEM/G/11 procedures. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K15
Signs of tamper, 3rd party interference, illegal extraction and energy theft across all aspects of meters and associated equipment. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K16
Low carbon technologies used within domestic dwellings used to provide energy, heating and hot water. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K17
The roles of other trades, disciplines and utility service providers associated with metering installation. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K18
Sustainability and energy efficiency: green technologies, alternative fuels, energy consumption, energy ratings and how they are calculated. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K19
General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K20
Principles of equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
Principles of completing work records, maintaining asset details and customer data in accordance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K22
Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Sector specific terminology. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K23
Common issues, symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety and depression, including where to go for help and the resources available. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K24
Principles and policies for identifying and responding to customers with fuel poverty issues. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K25
Techniques and procedures for carrying out on-going maintenance of smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Install and exchange smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S2
Commission smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S3
Carry out ongoing maintenance of smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S4
Identify, diagnose and rectify faults in smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S5
Decommission smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S6
Carry out dynamic risk assessment. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S7
Select, use and maintain tools, test equipment, ladder and access systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S8
Apply health and safety practices. Identify and report non-compliant conditions or situations. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S9
Use digital technology to access job, appliance and customer information. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S10
Complete work records, maintain asset details and customer data in accordance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S11
Advise customers on energy efficiency and how to operate smart meters. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S12
Communicate verbally with utility companies and other trades in order to complete tasks. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S13
Identify where customers are experiencing issues around fuel poverty, and provide support and assistance through the energy provider or support services. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S14
Dispose of defective smart meters or assets, and all waste. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Prioritise health and safety. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B2
Take responsibility for work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B3
Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B4
Support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K3 K4 S6 S8 B1 |
Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (IGEM G11). (K3) Dynamic risk assessments, associated procedures and documentation. (K4) |
Carry out dynamic risk assessment. (S6) Apply health and safety practices. Identify and report non-compliant conditions or situations. (S8) |
Prioritise health and safety. (B1) |
|
Documentation
K19 K21 S9 S10 |
General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). (K19) Principles of completing work records, maintaining asset details and customer data in accordance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). (K21) |
Use digital technology to access job, appliance and customer information. (S9) Complete work records, maintain asset details and customer data in accordance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). (S10) |
None |
|
Install, exchange and commission
K6 K9 K10 S1 S2 S7 B2 |
Installation and commissioning practices and techniques applicable to smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (K6) Tools, test equipment, ladder and access systems, and personal protective equipment. (K9) Gas and electrical testing and assessment procedures needed to establish the condition of the equipment and installation, and the actions needed as a result. (K10) |
Install and exchange smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (S1) Commission smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (S2) Select, use and maintain tools, test equipment, ladder and access systems, and personal protective equipment (PPE). (S7) |
Take responsibility for work. (B2) |
|
Maintenance and fault-finding
K7 K25 S3 S4 |
Fault-finding, diagnosis and rectification practices and techniques applicable to smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (K7) Techniques and procedures for carrying out on-going maintenance of smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (K25) |
Carry out ongoing maintenance of smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (S3) Identify, diagnose and rectify faults in smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (S4) |
None |
|
Decommission
K8 S5 S14 |
Decommissioning practices and techniques applicable to smart meters. (K8) |
Decommission smart meters, associated equipment and communication systems. (S5) Dispose of defective smart meters or assets, and all waste. (S14) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Sustainability
K18 |
Sustainability and energy efficiency: green technologies, alternative fuels, energy consumption, energy ratings and how they are calculated. (K18) |
None |
None |
|
Communication
K22 S11 S12 |
Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Sector specific terminology. (K22) |
Advise customers on energy efficiency and how to operate smart meters. (S11) Communicate verbally with utility companies and other trades in order to complete tasks. (S12) |
None |
|
Customer support
K24 S13 |
Principles and policies for identifying and responding to customers with fuel poverty issues. (K24) |
Identify where customers are experiencing issues around fuel poverty, and provide support and assistance through the energy provider or support services. (S13) |
None |
|
EDI
K20 B4 |
Principles of equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work. (K20) |
None |
Support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture. (B4) |
|
Mental health
K23 |
Common issues, symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety and depression, including where to go for help and the resources available. (K23) |
None |
None |
|
CPD
B3 |
None |
None |
Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice. (B3) |
Contact us about this apprenticeship
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Revised version awaiting implementation | In revision | 01/08/2024 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.1 | The funding band for this standard has been reviewed as part of the apprenticeship funding band review. The new funding band is £10000. The funding band for this standard has been reviewed and remains at £10000 (Jan 2019). | 03/10/2018 | 31/07/2024 | Not set |
| 1.0 | Retired | 27/08/2015 | 02/10/2018 | Not set |
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