This apprenticeship standard has been approved for delivery by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. However, starts on the apprenticeship will only be possible once a suitable end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) has obtained Ofqual recognition. Once the EPAO has obtained Ofqual recognition, funding for apprentice starts will be permitted and this message will be removed.
Covers commercial, agricultural, domestic, new-build and historic buildings with a variety of differing roof designs and materials.
A thatched roof is sustainable, environmentally-friendly, with a low carbon footprint, and of high insulation value. There are over 100,000 thatched properties in the UK and a large proportion of these are listed, meaning that the roofs must be replaced on a like-for-like basis. Thatchers conserve our heritage, benefitting tourism and the wider economy. New properties throughout some counties in the UK are also being built with thatched roofs, due to planning restrictions requiring a proportion of all new builds needing to be thatched. Thatching work covers commercial, agricultural, domestic, new-build and historic buildings with a variety of differing roof designs and materials. The thatcher needs to have an understanding of the complexities and variants in regional style, materials, vermin control and fire safety.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with clients, suppliers and master thatchers. During the course of a typical job, thatchers may interact with architects, conservation officers, clients and members of the public. Thatchers spend the majority of their time working at height, outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
An employee in this occupation will be involved in jobs from beginning to end from sourcing materials to organising other trades to roof preparation through to final thatching works and clearing of site. Some thatchers may even grow their own straw and make their own spars and liggers. The thatcher will also be responsible for understanding and implementing the appropriate site health, safety and welfare conditions.
This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 24 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.
The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.
The gateway requirements for your EPA are:
Practical assessment with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 30 hours. They will ask you at least 3 questions.
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 8 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.
Multiple-choice test
You will complete a multiple-choice test. It will be closed book, meaning you will not have access to any books or reference materials.
The test will have 25 multiple-choice questions. You will have 50 minutes to complete it.
The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.
You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.
You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.
You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.
If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.
A thatched roof is sustainable, environmentally-friendly, with a low carbon footprint, and of high insulation value. There are over 100,000 thatched properties in the UK and a large proportion of these are listed, meaning that the roofs must be replaced on a like-for-like basis. Thatchers conserve our heritage, benefitting tourism and the wider economy. New properties throughout some counties in the UK are also being built with thatched roofs, due to planning restrictions requiring a proportion of all new builds needing to be thatched. Thatching work covers commercial, agricultural, domestic, new-build and historic buildings with a variety of differing roof designs and materials. The thatcher needs to have an understanding of the complexities and variants in regional style, materials, vermin control and fire safety.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with clients, suppliers and master thatchers. During the course of a typical job, thatchers may interact with architects, conservation officers, clients and members of the public. Thatchers spend the majority of their time working at height, outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
An employee in this occupation will be involved in jobs from beginning to end from sourcing materials to organising other trades to roof preparation through to final thatching works and clearing of site. Some thatchers may even grow their own straw and make their own spars and liggers. The thatcher will also be responsible for understanding and implementing the appropriate site health, safety and welfare conditions.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
|
Duty 1 Manage resources ready for use including thatching materials, tools, equipment and vehicles. Check prepared and fit for purpose. |
K1 K3 K4 K5 K6 K8 K9 K12 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 2 Establish daily and weekly tasks and organise own work with emphasis on efficiency and safety. |
K4 K5 K6 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 3 Establish the suitability of the work area including PPE equipment, scaffolding, ladders and an understanding of how any risk assessment affects them. |
K4 K5 K7 K10 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 4 Assess the condition of the roof per agreed works, prepare the roof for thatching, understanding the differences between the different buildings to be thatched. |
K2 K4 K5 K6 K7 K10 K11 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 5 Preparation of thatching materials including long straw, combed wheat reed and water reed; correct handling, checking and storage. |
K1 K2 K6 K8 K9 K11 K12 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 6 Fix appropriate thatching materials to basic roof structure with correct depth over fixings and adequate tension. |
K6 K13 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 7 Fix appropriate thatching materials to roof features with correct depth over fixings and adequate tensions. |
K2 K4 K5 K6 K9 K13 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 8 Use and maintain thatching tools and equipment; understand their correct use and maintenance. |
K3 K4 K5 K6 K9 K12 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 9 Manage resources after use, clearing of site, removal of excess materials and storing tools and equipment correctly for future use. |
K3 K8 K14 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 10 Quantifying thatching work and materials with the ability to work out how much material and time is required to complete a thatching job efficiently and safely. |
K4 K5 K6 K9 K12 K15 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
K1: Thatching materials: how they are grown, harvested and prepared including long straw, combed wheat reed (CWR) and water reed.
Back to Duty
K2: Fixing methods and techniques: spars, screws and wires, crooks, pins, stitching. Understanding of spar production.
Back to Duty
K3: Techniques and practices for the selection, use, maintenance and storage of hand tools and equipment.
Back to Duty
K4: Health and safety: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), electrical safety, Health and Safety at Work, Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER), manual handling, Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), risk assessments, safe systems of work, working at height, working in confined spaces, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Back to Duty
K5: Building, conservation, trading standards and fire safety regulations affecting thatched buildings and materials.
Back to Duty
K6: Methods of interpreting information from drawings, specifications, the production plan and producing work instructions, utilising paper and digital methods.
Back to Duty
K7: Thatched building types including historic, listed, new-build and existing commercial, and residential, maintaining the local and vernacular character and thatching techniques.
Back to Duty
K8: Techniques and practices for moving, handling and storing materials, including protecting thatching materials from vermin and inclement weather.
Back to Duty
K9: Techniques and considerations for the selection of materials for thatching work.
Back to Duty
K10: Principles of assessing the roof condition.
Back to Duty
K11: Methods of preparing the roof for thatching.
Back to Duty
K12: Preparation of materials for installation for thatching work: architectural details and building features.
Back to Duty
K13: Quality assurance measures in thatching.
Back to Duty
K14: The importance of restoring the site area to a safe and tidy state on completion of thatching, and what this entails.
Back to Duty
K15: Methods of quantifying thatching materials and fixings required for roof building and repairs.
Back to Duty
K16: Running a thatching business: business operation considerations, efficiency, customer satisfaction, competitiveness, minimising risks to operation, ethical issues.
Back to Duty
K17: Methods of abutting the thatch to adjoining materials: such as lead, slate, tiles, flat roof, fiberglass, corrugated roof, brickwork and stonework.
Back to Duty
K18: Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Unconscious bias.
Back to Duty
K19: Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Thatching terminology.
Back to Duty
K20: Collaboration working techniques: colleagues and internal and external stakeholders.
Back to Duty
K21: Methods of safe working including risk assessments, method statements, control measures and safe systems of work.
Back to Duty
K22: Impact of the sector on the environment. Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse and safe disposal of waste.
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
S1: Interpret instructions and information for thatching work.
Back to Duty
S2: Apply planning, prioritising and time management techniques.
Back to Duty
S3: Apply budgetary considerations to thatching work: time, cost and waste management.
Back to Duty
S4: Apply safe systems of work in compliance with regulations and standards.
Back to Duty
S5: Select, inspect, and use working at height equipment for example ladders, scaffolding, Mobile elevated working platforms (MEWP).
Back to Duty
S6: Assess the condition of the roof prior to thatching work taking place: condition of existing materials, quality of materials, cover over fixings, condition of fixings, overall thickness of thatch, factors affecting the performance of the roof.
Back to Duty
S7: Quantify thatching work and materials required from documentation: drawings, specifications and production plan.
Back to Duty
S8: Select the thatching and fixing materials for thatching work.
Back to Duty
S9: Prepare thatching and fixing materials for installation on the roof for example damping and yealming long straw; butting and bundling combed wheat reed; trimming, splitting and twisting spars and rods.
Back to Duty
S10: Prepare the roof prior to thatching. Including completely stripped or stripped to a sound base coat, new structures and work surfaces prepared for subsequent thatching.
Back to Duty
S11: Apply thatching material to prepared roof area and features.
Back to Duty
S12: Fix thatching material to the roof.
Back to Duty
S13: Apply quality assurance measures to the finished thatching: pitch, tension, density, cover over fixings.
Back to Duty
S14: Carry out thatching works where it abuts with other materials such as lead and brickwork.
Back to Duty
S15: Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers and colleagues.
Back to Duty
S16: Select, use, maintain and store thatching tools and equipment.
Back to Duty
S17: Move, handle and store thatching materials, including storing and protecting against vermin and weather conditions. Ensure materials are accessible when required.
Back to Duty
S18: Select materials and use thatching techniques specific to historic or listed buildings.
Back to Duty
S19: Follow procedures in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
Back to Duty
S20: Apply team working principles.
Back to Duty
S21: Maintain a tidy work area restoring it on completion of work.
Back to Duty
S22: Carry out and record learning and development activities.
Back to Duty
S23: Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules.
Back to Duty
B1: Put workplace health, safety and wellbeing first.
Back to Duty
B2: Act ethically.
Back to Duty
B3: Take responsibility for work.
Back to Duty
B4: Committed to maintaining and enhancing competence of self through Continued Professional Development (CPD).
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.
V1.0
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the thatcher apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Thatcher apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time thatcher apprentice typically spends 24 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 work with the training provider to select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship providers 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 24 months
|
The apprentice must:
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|---|---|
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship. 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:
|
|
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 may observe a maximum of 4 apprentices at a time. 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 30 hours.
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 may take place in parts but must be completed over 4 consecutive working days. A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long. The reason for this split is to allow for the practical assessment to be delivered within the apprentice's normal working hours. 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 practical assessment with questions consists of two components:
Component one: planning task (4 hours)
The independent assessor must provide the apprentice with drawings including dimensions of the gable roof structure that will be used in the practical competence task, incorporating eaves, gables, coatwork, chimney, ridge and one architectural feature. The apprentice must create a specification of work for thatching the gable roof structure that includes the following:
Creating the specification of work should typically take the apprentice no more than 4 hours.
The independent assessor must review the apprentice's completed specification of work at the end of the planning task before the apprentice begins the practical competence task.
If the specification of work meets the standard including enabling the apprentice to complete the practical task meeting the tolerances set out below, the independent assessor must provide the materials and the apprentice may commence the practical task.
If the apprentice's specification of work does not meet the required standard, including enabling the apprentice to complete the practical task meeting the tolerances set out below, the apprentice will have failed the planning task component but they may commence the practical task with a pre-populated specification of works provided by the independent assessor along with the materials.
The apprentice must re-sit or re-take the failed planning task component in line with the re-sits and re-takes section of this EPA plan to achieve a pass in the practical assessment with questions.
Component two: practical competence task (26 hours)
The apprentice will be required to apply thatch to a gable roof structure incorporating eaves, gables, coatwork, chimney, ridge and one architectural feature.
The roof structure to be thatched should meet the following requirements:
The roof must include one architectural feature, for example:
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
The completed thatched roof structure will be assessed against the grading criteria and the following tolerances:
The EPAO must be able to provide:
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 purpose of the interview is to assess the apprentice's competences against the following themes:
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 60 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 8 questions. The 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 25 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 50 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
|
|---|---|
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Health and safety
K21 S4 B1 |
Prioritises wellbeing and safe systems of work, following risk assessments and method statements in compliance with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance. (K21, S4, B1) |
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Planning and preparation
K6 K9 K12 K15 S1 S2 S3 S7 S8 S9 |
Interprets information and instructions from drawings, specifications and the production plan to inform work instructions in line with the task requirements. (K6, S1) Quantifies the thatching materials and fixings required for the task, applies planning and time management techniques including cost and waste management in line with the task requirements. (K15, S2, S3, S7) Selects the thatching materials and fixings to carry out the task in line with the task requirements. (K9, S8) Prepares the selected material and fixings for example trimming, splitting, twisting spars and rods in line with the thatching material and task requirements. (K12, S9)
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Use, storage and movement of tools, equipment and materials
K3 K8 S16 S17 |
Selects and uses thatching hand tools and equipment, explains how to maintain and store when not in use. (K3, S16) Moves and handles materials and stores them in an accessible manner with unused materials stored to protect them from vermin and inclement weather. (K8, S17)
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Application and fixing
K2 S11 S12 |
Applies the thatching material to the roof, fixing the material using the fixing methods in line with the specification. (K2, S11, S12)
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After care
K13 K14 S13 S21 B3 |
Takes responsibility for their own work applying quality assurance measures to the thatching work checking pitch, tension, density of cover over fixings in line with task requirements. (K13, S13, B3) Maintains a tidy work area and restores the area to a safe and tidy state on completion of the thatching work in line with task requirements. (K14, S21)
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Fail - does not meet pass criteria
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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|---|---|---|
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Thatching work
K10 K11 K17 K22 S5 S6 S10 S14 S18 S19 B2 |
Explains how they inspect working at height equipment before use, in line with manufacturer's instructions and organisational procedures. (S5) Describes how they have assessed the condition of the roof prior to any thatching work being undertaken to identify factors affecting the performance of the roof including condition and quality of existing materials, condition of fixings and cover over fixings and overall thickness of thatch. (K10, S6) Describes how they have prepared a roof for thatching including thatching new structures, and completed stripping of an existing roof or partial stripping to a sound base coat in line with manufacturers guidance and organisational procedures. (K11, S10) Describes how they would abut the thatch to other materials such as brickwork and lead in line with the thatching requirements and building specifications. (K17, S14) Explains how they have selected materials used for thatching tasks on historic or listed building and the techniques they have used in these instances to carry out ethical working practices. (S18, B2) Explains how they have followed environmental and sustainability regulations and standards when undertaking thatching work. Explains the impact to the environment of their work, including efficient use of resources and segregating resources for reuse, recycling and disposal in line with regulations and guidance and organisational procedures. (K22, S19)
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Explains the importance of assessing the condition of the roof and materials prior to undertaking any thatching work. (K10, S6) Explains the impact of not fully preparing a roof for thatching according to requirements and building specifications. (K11, S10) Explains the importance of ensuring that the thatch is adjoined to the other building materials in line with the thatching requirements and building specifications. (K17, S14) |
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EDI, communications and collaboration
K18 K19 K20 S15 S20 S23 |
Describes how they have followed and supported equity, diversity, and inclusion, including minimising unconscious bias in their work in line with regulations and organisational guidelines. (K18, S23) Describes how they have applied team working and collaborative techniques with colleagues and internal and external stakeholders to meet their team's work goals. (K20, S20) Describes how they have communicated with others using verbal communication techniques, in a way that is suitable for the context and supports task completion. (K19, S15) |
None. |
|
Mental health and CPD
K23 S22 B4 |
Describes the issues, symptoms and warning signs related to stress, anxiety and depression, and how to access sources of help and relevant resources. (K23) Describes learning and development they have completed and recorded to support competence in their role. (S22, B4)
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N/A
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| Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | 0 | 14 |
| Pass | 15 | 20 |
| Distinction | 21 | 25 |
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. In order to achieve an overall distinction grade, the apprentice must achieve a pass in the practical assessment with questions and a distinction in the other two assessment method.
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 |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass |
| Pass | 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 3 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 6 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.
For the practical assessment, only the component failed will need to be re-sat/re-taken.
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 pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
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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Marker |
As a minimum, the marker must:
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Invigilator |
As a minimum, the invigilator 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.
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 is not aligned to professional recognition.
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Thatching materials: how they are grown, harvested and prepared including long straw, combed wheat reed (CWR) and water reed. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K2
Fixing methods and techniques: spars, screws and wires, crooks, pins, stitching. Understanding of spar production. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K3
Techniques and practices for the selection, use, maintenance and storage of hand tools and equipment. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K4
Health and safety: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), electrical safety, Health and Safety at Work, Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER), manual handling, Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR), risk assessments, safe systems of work, working at height, working in confined spaces, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K5
Building, conservation, trading standards and fire safety regulations affecting thatched buildings and materials. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K6
Methods of interpreting information from drawings, specifications, the production plan and producing work instructions, utilising paper and digital methods. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K7
Thatched building types including historic, listed, new-build and existing commercial, and residential, maintaining the local and vernacular character and thatching techniques. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K8
Techniques and practices for moving, handling and storing materials, including protecting thatching materials from vermin and inclement weather. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K9
Techniques and considerations for the selection of materials for thatching work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K10
Principles of assessing the roof condition. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K11
Methods of preparing the roof for thatching. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K12
Preparation of materials for installation for thatching work: architectural details and building features. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K13
Quality assurance measures in thatching. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K14
The importance of restoring the site area to a safe and tidy state on completion of thatching, and what this entails. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K15
Methods of quantifying thatching materials and fixings required for roof building and repairs. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K16
Running a thatching business: business operation considerations, efficiency, customer satisfaction, competitiveness, minimising risks to operation, ethical issues. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K17
Methods of abutting the thatch to adjoining materials: such as lead, slate, tiles, flat roof, fiberglass, corrugated roof, brickwork and stonework. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K18
Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Unconscious bias. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K19
Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Thatching terminology. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K20
Collaboration working techniques: colleagues and internal and external stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
Methods of safe working including risk assessments, method statements, control measures and safe systems of work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K22
Impact of the sector on the environment. Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse and safe disposal of waste. 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 |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Interpret instructions and information for thatching work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S2
Apply planning, prioritising and time management techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S3
Apply budgetary considerations to thatching work: time, cost and waste management. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S4
Apply safe systems of work in compliance with regulations and standards. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S5
Select, inspect, and use working at height equipment for example ladders, scaffolding, Mobile elevated working platforms (MEWP). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S6
Assess the condition of the roof prior to thatching work taking place: condition of existing materials, quality of materials, cover over fixings, condition of fixings, overall thickness of thatch, factors affecting the performance of the roof. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S7
Quantify thatching work and materials required from documentation: drawings, specifications and production plan. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S8
Select the thatching and fixing materials for thatching work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S9
Prepare thatching and fixing materials for installation on the roof for example damping and yealming long straw; butting and bundling combed wheat reed; trimming, splitting and twisting spars and rods. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S10
Prepare the roof prior to thatching. Including completely stripped or stripped to a sound base coat, new structures and work surfaces prepared for subsequent thatching. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S11
Apply thatching material to prepared roof area and features. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S12
Fix thatching material to the roof. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S13
Apply quality assurance measures to the finished thatching: pitch, tension, density, cover over fixings. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S14
Carry out thatching works where it abuts with other materials such as lead and brickwork. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S15
Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers and colleagues. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S16
Select, use, maintain and store thatching tools and equipment. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S17
Move, handle and store thatching materials, including storing and protecting against vermin and weather conditions. Ensure materials are accessible when required. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S18
Select materials and use thatching techniques specific to historic or listed buildings. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S19
Follow procedures in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S20
Apply team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S21
Maintain a tidy work area restoring it on completion of work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S22
Carry out and record learning and development activities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S23
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Put workplace health, safety and wellbeing first. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B2
Act ethically. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B3
Take responsibility for work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B4
Committed to maintaining and enhancing competence of self through Continued Professional Development (CPD). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K21 S4 B1 |
Methods of safe working including risk assessments, method statements, control measures and safe systems of work. (K21) |
Apply safe systems of work in compliance with regulations and standards. (S4) |
Put workplace health, safety and wellbeing first. (B1) |
|
Planning and preparation
K6 K9 K12 K15 S1 S2 S3 S7 S8 S9 |
Methods of interpreting information from drawings, specifications, the production plan and producing work instructions, utilising paper and digital methods. (K6) Techniques and considerations for the selection of materials for thatching work. (K9) Preparation of materials for installation for thatching work: architectural details and building features. (K12) Methods of quantifying thatching materials and fixings required for roof building and repairs. (K15) |
Interpret instructions and information for thatching work. (S1) Apply planning, prioritising and time management techniques. (S2) Apply budgetary considerations to thatching work: time, cost and waste management. (S3) Quantify thatching work and materials required from documentation: drawings, specifications and production plan. (S7) Select the thatching and fixing materials for thatching work. (S8) Prepare thatching and fixing materials for installation on the roof for example damping and yealming long straw; butting and bundling combed wheat reed; trimming, splitting and twisting spars and rods. (S9) |
None |
|
Use, storage and movement of tools, equipment and materials
K3 K8 S16 S17 |
Techniques and practices for the selection, use, maintenance and storage of hand tools and equipment. (K3) Techniques and practices for moving, handling and storing materials, including protecting thatching materials from vermin and inclement weather. (K8) |
Select, use, maintain and store thatching tools and equipment. (S16) Move, handle and store thatching materials, including storing and protecting against vermin and weather conditions. Ensure materials are accessible when required. (S17) |
None |
|
Application and fixing
K2 S11 S12 |
Fixing methods and techniques: spars, screws and wires, crooks, pins, stitching. Understanding of spar production. (K2) |
Apply thatching material to prepared roof area and features. (S11) Fix thatching material to the roof. (S12) |
None |
|
After care
K13 K14 S13 S21 B3 |
Quality assurance measures in thatching. (K13) The importance of restoring the site area to a safe and tidy state on completion of thatching, and what this entails. (K14) |
Apply quality assurance measures to the finished thatching: pitch, tension, density, cover over fixings. (S13) Maintain a tidy work area restoring it on completion of work. (S21) |
Take responsibility for work. (B3) |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Thatching work
K10 K11 K17 K22 S5 S6 S10 S14 S18 S19 B2 |
Principles of assessing the roof condition. (K10) Methods of preparing the roof for thatching. (K11) Methods of abutting the thatch to adjoining materials: such as lead, slate, tiles, flat roof, fiberglass, corrugated roof, brickwork and stonework. (K17) Impact of the sector on the environment. Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse and safe disposal of waste. (K22) |
Select, inspect, and use working at height equipment for example ladders, scaffolding, Mobile elevated working platforms (MEWP). (S5) Assess the condition of the roof prior to thatching work taking place: condition of existing materials, quality of materials, cover over fixings, condition of fixings, overall thickness of thatch, factors affecting the performance of the roof. (S6) Prepare the roof prior to thatching. Including completely stripped or stripped to a sound base coat, new structures and work surfaces prepared for subsequent thatching. (S10) Carry out thatching works where it abuts with other materials such as lead and brickwork. (S14) Select materials and use thatching techniques specific to historic or listed buildings. (S18) Follow procedures in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S19) |
Act ethically. (B2) |
|
EDI, communications and collaboration
K18 K19 K20 S15 S20 S23 |
Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Unconscious bias. (K18) Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Thatching terminology. (K19) Collaboration working techniques: colleagues and internal and external stakeholders. (K20) |
Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers and colleagues. (S15) Apply team working principles. (S20) Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules. (S23) |
None |
|
Mental health and CPD
K23 S22 B4 |
Common issues, symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety and depression, including where to go for help and the resources available. (K23) |
Carry out and record learning and development activities. (S22) |
Committed to maintaining and enhancing competence of self through Continued Professional Development (CPD). (B4) |
Contact us about this apprenticeship
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 27/02/2024 | Not set | Not set |
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