Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST0046
  3. Version: 1.3
  4. Level: 4
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 36 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 4 months
  7. Maximum funding: £11000
  8. Route: Construction and the built environment
  9. Integration: None
  10. Date updated: 05/09/2024
  11. Approved for delivery: 27 March 2018
  12. Lars code: 259
  13. EQA provider: Ofqual
  14. Example progression routes:
  15. Review: this apprenticeship will be reviewed in accordance with our change request policy.
Print apprenticeship summary

Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Looking after the technical, organising and supervising side of construction projects.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the construction, built environment and engineering sectors, with civil engineering senior technicians employed in a variety of organisation types and sizes.  

The broad purpose of the occupation is coordinate, manage and provide the technical planning, design, building, management, maintenance or dismantling of the built environment (such as buildings, structures, parks and public spaces, schools, offices, museums, hospitals) and infrastructure, such as transportation (road, rail, bridges, tunnels, ports and airports), water and waste management, marine and coastal engineering (irrigation systems, sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), flood, river and coastal defences), water and power supplies (utilities, hydropower, power stations, nuclear plants, on and offshore wind farms).

Civil engineering senior technicians use and apply their technical knowledge, underpinned by scientific principles and theories, propose numerous suitable techniques, procedures and methods to undertake and deliver civil engineering solutions. They need to source, review, analyse and evaluate a range of data and information, perform advanced calculations, and analyse civil engineering problems to reach proven solutions.

Senior technicians prepare, produce and present civil engineering information, designs and documentation, with regard for the practical need to deliver, manage, assess and improve civil engineering solutions to relevant codes of practice and industry standards (for example, Construction Design and Management (CDM), the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), or managing information over the whole life cycle of a built asset using Building Information Modelling (BIM) via ISO 19650), to statutory and regulatory requirements (such as the Building Safety Act), and in compliance with health, safety and wellbeing requirements.

They use appropriate analytical and computational software, including engineering analysis software (for example, CAD) or digital data modelling processes, to prepare, produce, and communicate civil engineering solutions, recognising the limitations of the techniques and outputs produced, and where continuous improvement may be useful. Some senior technicians will also select appropriate materials and perform tests on these.

 

With the need to mitigate the detrimental effects on the environment and an increased drive for sustainability, senior technicians will need to consider the whole life cycle of a built asset, ensuring the civil engineering solutions and projects they are engaged with, align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), respond to net-zero carbon emissions targets and are compliant with climate change acts, and environmental and sustainability policies and legislation. 

Civil engineering senior technicians also inform and manage tasks, team members and resources within their allocation, but also contribute to broader and more complex civil engineering solutions, applying appropriate project management knowledge and techniques, use quality systems and risk assessment procedures to mitigate risks, and improve safe systems of work. Senior technicians may also commission, carry out, or review site inspections or surveys, report progress against project plans, or check specified technical aspects of design or site-based activities.  

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their line manager, typically a senior civil engineer or site manager, to confirm programmes of work, agree individual and team responsibilities, budgets and resources, which support the delivery of wider plans across civil engineering projects; these teams could include other technicians or specialist contactors for which they may be responsible for, engineers across a range of disciplines from various employer types (e.g. clients, consultancies, contractors), and project managers, where their collective outputs will be used to produce civil engineering solutions that are fit for purpose, safe, secure, environmentally sustainable, and meet customer and industry specifications.

Senior technicians are also exposed to other professional disciplines, such as building services engineers, construction managers, surveyors, architects, planners, environmental practitioners, or legal teams. As well as liaising with internal colleagues, often across a variety of multidisciplinary areas, some senior technicians are also responsible for working with customers, suppliers, manufacturers, and stakeholders or with representatives from appropriate regulatory bodies.

Civil engineering senior technicians, depending on their employer, will spend their time in an office environment, working on site, working remotely or a combination of these. There is also potential for visiting customers, suppliers, or manufacturers.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for delivering civil engineering technical solutions, ensuring accuracy and quality, for which they are responsible for the technical management of, within agreed time and resource limits, compliant with industry, regulatory and legislative standards, such as the Building Safety Bill, and to broadly defined specifications. Civil engineering technicians must also comply with health and safety regulations, including the Construction (Design and Management) regulation, and environmental and sustainability policies.

Senior technicians also supervise other team members, communicating, agreeing and managing tasks that they and others complete, ensuring these meet appropriate standards and specified outcomes, and that work is carried out in a safe environment and the wellbeing of those involved is safeguarded.

 

Senior technicians are able to use their own judgement when undertaking the occupational duties and apply their knowledge, skills, and behaviours in a range of contexts and environments, adapting to issues that arise, informing the actions to be taken and reviewing the effectiveness of these actions. They are also responsible for their own, and promoting the benefits of, continuing professional development, and recognising their own obligations to society.

Typical job titles include:

Assistant engineer Civil engineering senior technician Civil engineering site technician Civil engineering supervisor Civil infrastructure senior technician Construction site engineering technician Junior site engineer Senior construction technician Senior design technician Senior engineering technician Senior highways senior technician Site manager Structural engineering senior technician Transport engineering design technician

Duties

  • Duty 1 Propose civil engineering solutions to well-defined technical problems, by preparing, producing and presenting engineering diagrams and documents, to engineering specifications, industry codes of practice, regulations, standards, and procedures
  • Duty 2 Deliver appropriate and effective technical civil engineering solutions, by selecting, reviewing and evaluating data and technical information, and by using a range of appropriate engineering methods and processes, including the undertaking of complex calculations
  • Duty 3 Manage civil engineering tasks and supervise team members, by applying engineering management principles to effectively identify, organise and use resources within civil engineering projects to specification, whilst recording, controlling, and reporting against agreed budgets or costs, agreed targets and timescales, and with consideration for quality, safety and the contracted terms and conditions
  • Duty 4 Contribute to the design of civil engineering systems, checking the systems designed or delivered meet the requirements of the end user or business need, and that relevant industry standards and procedures are adhered to
  • Duty 5 Use a range of practical and workshop skills, selecting and applying appropriate materials, equipment, technologies and processes, to plan, undertake and analyse civil engineering activities
  • Duty 6 Use analytical and engineering analysis software (such as Computer Aided Design (CAD)), digital data modelling processes, such as Building Information Management (BIM), and other techniques) to inform, develop or manage civil engineering solutions, recognising the limitations of the software techniques used
  • Duty 7 Ensure compliance with health, safety & welfare requirements, apply safe systems of work, including the Construction (Design and Management) regulation, understanding the safety implications of their role, ensuring they apply and improve safe systems of work
  • Duty 8 Identify, evaluate and mitigate risks associated with their own work, and in the projects and activities they are responsible for
  • Duty 9 Comply with relevant policies, standards, regulations, legislation, strategies, technical guidance, and codes of practice, for example, Building Safety legislation, Construction (Design and Management) (CDM), or Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), ensuring they are interpreted, and communicated correctly and appropriately
  • Duty 10 Comply with environmental policies and legislation, practice sustainable principles, and evaluate how these impact on the civil engineering projects they work on, and how these assist in the achievement of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) and net-zero carbon emissions
  • Duty 11 Use quality and information management, and assurance systems and processes, for example ISO 19650, recognising the need for these, and their role in continuous improvement
  • Duty 12 Communicate and liaise effectively with own project team, and those in other teams, such as customers or specialist contractors, and with internal or external stakeholders, respecting the need for the security of data and information
  • Duty 13 Work reliably and effectively independently without close supervision, and as a member of a team, taking responsibility for their own work, and supervising others where appropriate
  • Duty 14 Ensure compliance with equality, diversity & inclusion (EDI) and ethical standards, recognising the importance of these in the workplace
  • Duty 15 Plan and maintain their own learning and skills development by carrying out continuing professional development in line with professional codes of conduct and/or industry specifications and obligations, and promoting the benefits of this to others

Apprenticeship summary

ST0046, civil engineering senior technician level 4

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.

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

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 36 months. The EPA period is typically 4 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.

EPA gateway

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:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, you must submit a portfolio of evidence

  • passed any other qualifications listed in the occupational standard

For the civil engineering senior technician, the qualification required is:

one of the following qualifications: Pearson L4 HNC in Civil Engineering (RQF/2023) qualification number (QN) 610/0935/0 -OR- Pearson BTEC L4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering) qualification number (QN) 603/0465/0 -OR- A HNC or an equivalent qualification in civil engineering approved or accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) as meeting the educational requirements for an Engineering Technician and for progression towards IEng registration

Assessment methods


Technical project report and presentation with questioning

You will complete a project and write a report. You will be asked to complete a project. The EPAO will give you suggested project titles. The report should be a maximum of 3500 words (with a 10% tolerance).

You will have 6 weeks to complete the project and submit the report to the EPAO.

You need to prepare and give a presentation to an independent assessor. Your presentation slides and any supporting materials should be submitted at the same time as the project output. The presentation with questions will last at least 30 minutes. The independent assessor will ask at least 5 questions about the project and presentation.


Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

You will have a professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 40 minutes. They will ask you at least 6 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.

The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.

Who to contact for help or more information

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.


Reasonable adjustments

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.


Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with Engineering Council (EngTech) for level 4

Please contact the professional body for more details.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the construction, built environment and engineering sectors, with civil engineering senior technicians employed in a variety of organisation types and sizes.  

The broad purpose of the occupation is coordinate, manage and provide the technical planning, design, building, management, maintenance or dismantling of the built environment (such as buildings, structures, parks and public spaces, schools, offices, museums, hospitals) and infrastructure, such as transportation (road, rail, bridges, tunnels, ports and airports), water and waste management, marine and coastal engineering (irrigation systems, sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), flood, river and coastal defences), water and power supplies (utilities, hydropower, power stations, nuclear plants, on and offshore wind farms).

Civil engineering senior technicians use and apply their technical knowledge, underpinned by scientific principles and theories, propose numerous suitable techniques, procedures and methods to undertake and deliver civil engineering solutions. They need to source, review, analyse and evaluate a range of data and information, perform advanced calculations, and analyse civil engineering problems to reach proven solutions.

Senior technicians prepare, produce and present civil engineering information, designs and documentation, with regard for the practical need to deliver, manage, assess and improve civil engineering solutions to relevant codes of practice and industry standards (for example, Construction Design and Management (CDM), the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), or managing information over the whole life cycle of a built asset using Building Information Modelling (BIM) via ISO 19650), to statutory and regulatory requirements (such as the Building Safety Act), and in compliance with health, safety and wellbeing requirements.

They use appropriate analytical and computational software, including engineering analysis software (for example, CAD) or digital data modelling processes, to prepare, produce, and communicate civil engineering solutions, recognising the limitations of the techniques and outputs produced, and where continuous improvement may be useful. Some senior technicians will also select appropriate materials and perform tests on these.

 

With the need to mitigate the detrimental effects on the environment and an increased drive for sustainability, senior technicians will need to consider the whole life cycle of a built asset, ensuring the civil engineering solutions and projects they are engaged with, align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), respond to net-zero carbon emissions targets and are compliant with climate change acts, and environmental and sustainability policies and legislation. 

Civil engineering senior technicians also inform and manage tasks, team members and resources within their allocation, but also contribute to broader and more complex civil engineering solutions, applying appropriate project management knowledge and techniques, use quality systems and risk assessment procedures to mitigate risks, and improve safe systems of work. Senior technicians may also commission, carry out, or review site inspections or surveys, report progress against project plans, or check specified technical aspects of design or site-based activities.  

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their line manager, typically a senior civil engineer or site manager, to confirm programmes of work, agree individual and team responsibilities, budgets and resources, which support the delivery of wider plans across civil engineering projects; these teams could include other technicians or specialist contactors for which they may be responsible for, engineers across a range of disciplines from various employer types (e.g. clients, consultancies, contractors), and project managers, where their collective outputs will be used to produce civil engineering solutions that are fit for purpose, safe, secure, environmentally sustainable, and meet customer and industry specifications.

Senior technicians are also exposed to other professional disciplines, such as building services engineers, construction managers, surveyors, architects, planners, environmental practitioners, or legal teams. As well as liaising with internal colleagues, often across a variety of multidisciplinary areas, some senior technicians are also responsible for working with customers, suppliers, manufacturers, and stakeholders or with representatives from appropriate regulatory bodies.

Civil engineering senior technicians, depending on their employer, will spend their time in an office environment, working on site, working remotely or a combination of these. There is also potential for visiting customers, suppliers, or manufacturers.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for delivering civil engineering technical solutions, ensuring accuracy and quality, for which they are responsible for the technical management of, within agreed time and resource limits, compliant with industry, regulatory and legislative standards, such as the Building Safety Bill, and to broadly defined specifications. Civil engineering technicians must also comply with health and safety regulations, including the Construction (Design and Management) regulation, and environmental and sustainability policies.

Senior technicians also supervise other team members, communicating, agreeing and managing tasks that they and others complete, ensuring these meet appropriate standards and specified outcomes, and that work is carried out in a safe environment and the wellbeing of those involved is safeguarded.

 

Senior technicians are able to use their own judgement when undertaking the occupational duties and apply their knowledge, skills, and behaviours in a range of contexts and environments, adapting to issues that arise, informing the actions to be taken and reviewing the effectiveness of these actions. They are also responsible for their own, and promoting the benefits of, continuing professional development, and recognising their own obligations to society.

Typical job titles include:

Assistant engineer Civil engineering senior technician Civil engineering site technician Civil engineering supervisor Civil infrastructure senior technician Construction site engineering technician Junior site engineer Senior construction technician Senior design technician Senior engineering technician Senior highways senior technician Site manager Structural engineering senior technician Transport engineering design technician

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Propose civil engineering solutions to well-defined technical problems, by preparing, producing and presenting engineering diagrams and documents, to engineering specifications, industry codes of practice, regulations, standards, and procedures

K1 K2 K9 K10

S1 S2 S7 S9

B1 B2 B4

Duty 2 Deliver appropriate and effective technical civil engineering solutions, by selecting, reviewing and evaluating data and technical information, and by using a range of appropriate engineering methods and processes, including the undertaking of complex calculations

K1 K2 K3 K5

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5

B4

Duty 3 Manage civil engineering tasks and supervise team members, by applying engineering management principles to effectively identify, organise and use resources within civil engineering projects to specification, whilst recording, controlling, and reporting against agreed budgets or costs, agreed targets and timescales, and with consideration for quality, safety and the contracted terms and conditions

K2 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17

S2 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15

B2 B3 B5

Duty 4 Contribute to the design of civil engineering systems, checking the systems designed or delivered meet the requirements of the end user or business need, and that relevant industry standards and procedures are adhered to

K6 K7 K8 K9 K10

S6 S7 S8

B1 B4

Duty 5 Use a range of practical and workshop skills, selecting and applying appropriate materials, equipment, technologies and processes, to plan, undertake and analyse civil engineering activities

K2 K4 K5

S2 S4 S5

B3 B4

Duty 6 Use analytical and engineering analysis software (such as Computer Aided Design (CAD)), digital data modelling processes, such as Building Information Management (BIM), and other techniques) to inform, develop or manage civil engineering solutions, recognising the limitations of the software techniques used

K3 K7 K8

S3 S6

B3 B4

Duty 7 Ensure compliance with health, safety & welfare requirements, apply safe systems of work, including the Construction (Design and Management) regulation, understanding the safety implications of their role, ensuring they apply and improve safe systems of work

K9 K11

S7 S9 S11

B4

Duty 8 Identify, evaluate and mitigate risks associated with their own work, and in the projects and activities they are responsible for

K10 K11

S8 S9

B1 B2 B3

Duty 9 Comply with relevant policies, standards, regulations, legislation, strategies, technical guidance, and codes of practice, for example, Building Safety legislation, Construction (Design and Management) (CDM), or Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), ensuring they are interpreted, and communicated correctly and appropriately

K9 K15

S7 S15

B1 B2 B5

Duty 10 Comply with environmental policies and legislation, practice sustainable principles, and evaluate how these impact on the civil engineering projects they work on, and how these assist in the achievement of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) and net-zero carbon emissions

K12 K14

S10

B1

Duty 11 Use quality and information management, and assurance systems and processes, for example ISO 19650, recognising the need for these, and their role in continuous improvement

K14

S12

B3

Duty 12 Communicate and liaise effectively with own project team, and those in other teams, such as customers or specialist contractors, and with internal or external stakeholders, respecting the need for the security of data and information

K15 K16 K17 K18 K19

S11 S14 S15 S16

B5

Duty 13 Work reliably and effectively independently without close supervision, and as a member of a team, taking responsibility for their own work, and supervising others where appropriate

K13 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19

S11 S13 S14 S15 S16

B2 B3 B5

Duty 14 Ensure compliance with equality, diversity & inclusion (EDI) and ethical standards, recognising the importance of these in the workplace

K18 K19

S14 S15

B3 B5

Duty 15 Plan and maintain their own learning and skills development by carrying out continuing professional development in line with professional codes of conduct and/or industry specifications and obligations, and promoting the benefits of this to others

K20

S17

B6

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Engineering principles, underpinned by relevant scientific, theoretical and technical knowledge and understanding to solve well-defined civil engineering problems Back to Duty

K2: Civil engineering techniques, procedures and methods used for civil engineering systems, to either measure and test, design, install, commission, maintain or operate Back to Duty

K3: Advanced mathematical, statistical and analytical problem-solving tools Back to Duty

K4: Properties of, and selection criteria for materials, components or parts used in civil engineering solutions Back to Duty

K5: Techniques and methods to collect data and technical information, to analyse and evaluate civil engineering problems Back to Duty

K6: Design principles and control processes used in the civil engineering consultancy, construction or manufacturing process, and the common constraints faced Back to Duty

K7: Technical drawings, designs, and models, using analytical and computer-based software packages Back to Duty

K8: Uses and limitations of computational and digital models, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) Back to Duty

K9: Industry policies, standards, regulations and legislation, and codes of practice, including Building Safety legislation, Construction (Design and Management) (CDM) or Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Back to Duty

K10: Statutory health, safety and welfare policies, procedures, and regulations including the Construction (Design and Management) regulation Back to Duty

K11: Risk assessment and mitigation processes, and their importance in the civil engineering environment Back to Duty

K12: Principles of sustainable development and their impact on the lifecycle of civil engineering solutions, including United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), net-zero carbon emissions, environmental policies and legislations, and the climate change act Back to Duty

K13: Project management techniques, including quality and information management and assurance systems and continuous improvement processes Back to Duty

K14: Methods for planning and resourcing civil engineering tasks, and the impact on cost, quality, safety, security, and environment Back to Duty

K15: Methods of communication and when to use them, using appropriate engineering terminology and conventions Back to Duty

K16: Roles and responsibilities within the organisation, team dynamics and their own boundaries of authority Back to Duty

K17: Relationships between key organisations in the civil engineering sector (for example organisations, customers, partners and suppliers) Back to Duty

K18: Equality, diversity and inclusion, its importance and impact on civil engineering solutions Back to Duty

K19: Ethical principles as applied to civil engineering including the need for the confidentiality and security of data and information Back to Duty

K20: Methods to maintain professional competence and technical knowledge including initial professional development (IPD) and continuing professional development (CPD) Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Apply engineering principles, using relevant scientific, theoretical and technical know-how to solve well-defined civil engineering problems Back to Duty

S2: Apply civil engineering techniques, procedures and methods, and review the results, when measuring and testing, designing, installing, commissioning, maintaining or operating civil engineering systems Back to Duty

S3: Employ a range of advanced mathematical, statistical and data interpretation tools, using analytical and computational methods to interpret and solve civil engineering problems Back to Duty

S4: Interpret and compare performance information to choose compliant materials, components or parts Back to Duty

S5: Select and use technical literature and other sources of information and data to address well-defined civil engineering problems Back to Duty

S6: Produce and interpret civil engineering technical drawings, designs, and models, using analytical and computer-based software packages, recognising the limitations of the software used Back to Duty

S7: Produce civil engineering technical solutions in accordance with relevant industry standards, procedures, codes of practice, regulations, and legislation Back to Duty

S8: Comply with, and encourage others to demonstrate, statutory health, safety and welfare policies, procedures and regulation Back to Duty

S9: Complete risk assessments to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks Back to Duty

S10: Apply principles of sustainable development, and assess the impact of these in their work Back to Duty

S11: Employ project management techniques, measuring and recording progress against civil engineering project plans Back to Duty

S12: Assess and report on quality using appropriate management and assurance systems and continuous improvement processes Back to Duty

S13: Identify and use resources, equipment and technology to meet project requirements, including specifications, budget and timescales Back to Duty

S14: Monitor and manage individual performance, and supervise others, recognising the need to comply with appropriate codes of practice and equality, diversity & inclusion (EDI) requirements Back to Duty

S15: Communicate using appropriate methods for the audience, using appropriate engineering terminology and conventions Back to Duty

S16: Apply ethical principles to civil engineering projects, including the secure use of data and information Back to Duty

S17: Plan, undertake and review their own professional competence, updating and reviewing their CPD to improve performance Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Works to health, safety and welfare requirements, industry standards, statutory regulation and legislation, policies, and codes of practice, and ensuring others do likewise Back to Duty

B2: Makes independent decisions when delivering civil engineering projects, whilst knowing their own limitations and when to ask for help or to escalate Back to Duty

B3: Works individually and as part of a team, being aware of their actions and the impact they may have on others, and demonstrating awareness of diversity and inclusion issues so as to meet the requirement of fairness at work Back to Duty

B4: Solves problems with attention to detail, accuracy, and diligence, and seeks to continually improve Back to Duty

B5: Maintains professional and ethical working relationships with internal, external, and other stakeholders Back to Duty

B6: Takes responsibility for their own professional development, seeking opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills, and experience, and support others when requested Back to Duty

Qualifications

English and Maths

Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.

Other mandatory qualifications

one of the following qualifications: Pearson L4 HNC in Civil Engineering (RQF/2023) qualification number (QN) 610/0935/0 -OR- Pearson BTEC L4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering) qualification number (QN) 603/0465/0 -OR- A HNC or an equivalent qualification in civil engineering approved or accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) as meeting the educational requirements for an Engineering Technician and for progression towards IEng registration

Level: 4

Professional recognition

This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:

  • Engineering Council (EngTech) for level 4
Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.3

Introduction and overview

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the civil engineering senior technician apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.

Civil engineering senior technician apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

A full-time civil engineering senior technician apprentice typically spends 36 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 4 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 2 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are below.

Assessment method 1 - technical project report and presentation with questioning:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 2 - professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme - typically 36 months

The apprentice must:

  • complete training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) outlined in this apprenticeship’s standard
  • complete training towards English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules componentexcept the integrated one of the following qualifications: Pearson L4 HNC in Civil Engineering (RQF/2023) qualification number (QN) 610/0935/0 -OR- Pearson BTEC L4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering) qualification number (QN) 603/0465/0 -OR- A HNC or an equivalent qualification in civil engineering approved or accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) as meeting the educational requirements for an Engineering Technician and for progression towards IEng registration

  • compile a portfolio of evidence

  • complete training towards the qualification listed in the civil engineering senior technician apprenticeship standard

The qualification required is:

one of the following qualifications: Pearson L4 HNC in Civil Engineering (RQF/2023) qualification number (QN) 610/0935/0 -OR- Pearson BTEC L4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering) qualification number (QN) 603/0465/0 -OR- A HNC or an equivalent qualification in civil engineering approved or accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) as meeting the educational requirements for an Engineering Technician and for progression towards IEng registration

End-point assessment gateway

The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent.

The apprentice must:

  • confirm they are ready to take the EPA
  • have achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
End-point assessment - typically 4 months

The grades available for each assessment method are below

Technical project report and presentation with questioning:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • distinction

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with:

  • Engineering Council (EngTech) for level 4

Duration of end-point assessment period

The EPA will be taken within the EPA period. The EPA period begins when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements are met and is typically 4 months.

The expectation is that the EPAO will confirm the gateway requirements are met and the EPA begins as quickly as possible.

EPA gateway

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:

  • confirm they are ready to take the EPA
  • have achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules

  • have passed one of the following qualifications: Pearson L4 HNC in Civil Engineering (RQF/2023) qualification number (QN) 610/0935/0 -OR- Pearson BTEC L4 HNC in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering) qualification number (QN) 603/0465/0 -OR- A HNC or an equivalent qualification in civil engineering approved or accredited by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) as meeting the educational requirements for an Engineering Technician and for progression towards IEng registration

  • submit a Portfolio of evidence for the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

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 this assessment method. It will typically contain 12 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 must cover the following areas:

  • design, technology and modelling in civil engineering
  • project management and safe systems of working
  • roles, responsibilities and engagement with others
  • personal and professional practice

Evidence sources may include evidence of work undertaken which may be supported by:

  • civil engineering designs
  • technical drawings
  • CAD (computer aided design) and or BIM (building information modelling) models
  • technical briefs
  • industry specifications
  • industry standards
  • project plans
  • client or customer feedback
  • witness statements
  • employer and or trainer feedback
  • initial and continuous professional development and training records
  • appraisal records
  • training course completion

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 discussion. The independent assessors should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the discussion. 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.

Order of assessment methods

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.

Technical project report and presentation with questioning

Overview

A project involves the apprentice completing a significant and defined piece of work that has a real business application and benefit. The project must meet the needs of the employer’s business and be relevant to the apprentice’s occupation and apprenticeship.

This assessment method has 2 components:

  • project with a project output

  • presentation with questions and answers

Together, these components give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. They are assessed by an independent assessor.

Rationale

The technical project reflects an employer’s civil engineering challenges and is typical of the apprentice’s everyday work, ensuring that they can demonstrate KSBs in practice. As part of a civil engineering senior technician's role, they will be expected to plan and carry out technical projects, using appropriate engineering principles, theories, processes, and advanced mathematical and data analysis skills, before evaluating and proposing appropriate civil engineering solutions, with consideration for a range of factors, back to various audiences through reports, presentations and discussions. Therefore, this method of assessment is deemed as the most appropriate for this occupation as it accurately reflects the environments and current workplace tasks of the apprentice. The technical project report, presentation and questioning allow for effective assessment of the KSBs assigned to this assessment method.

Delivery

The apprentice must complete a project based on any of the following:

The EPAO must provide a project assessment method specification. It must detail how a project can enable an apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade. The EPAO must also provide suggested project titles. 

The project output must be in the form of a report and presentation.

The apprentice must start the project after the gateway. The employer should ensure the apprentice has the time and resources, within the project period, to plan and complete their project.

The apprentice may work as part of a team to complete the project, which could include internal colleagues or technical experts. The apprentice must however, complete their project report and presentation unaided and they must be reflective of their own role and contribution. The apprentice and their employer must confirm this when the report and any presentation materials are submitted.

Component 1: Project report

The report must include at least:

  • an executive summary (or abstract)
  • an introduction
  • the scope of the project (including key performance indicators, aims and objectives)
  • a project plan
  • research outcomes
  • data analysis outcomes
  • project outcomes
  • discussion of findings
  • recommendations and conclusions
  • references
  • appendix containing mapping of KSBs to the report.

The report must also include:

Apprentices will undertake a technical project after they have passed the gateway and produce a report that appropriately covers all of the KSBs assigned to this method of assessment.

The EPAO will issue the technical project brief to the apprentice at gateway aligned to their engineering specialism.

The technical project brief will reflect a real work-based civil engineering challenge in a subject area, providing a focus on an area such as:

  • bridges
  • buildings and structures
  • dams and reservoirs
  • energy services
  • environment planning and engineering
  • geology, geotechnical and ground engineering, and tunnelling
  • offshore
  • railway systems and infrastructure
  • regeneration and development
  • research
  • river, coast, marine, docks and harbours
  • transportation, traffic and highways
  • water supply, sewage treatment or drainage and pipelines

The technical project brief, designed and issued by the EPAO, will typically be 500 words in length. The EPAO will design and issue guidance with the technical brief.

Technical project reports must include:.

  • an introduction
  • the scope of the project, methodology and timeline for key tasks
  • research and findings:
    • data collection, analysis and evaluation appropriate to the technical project and level of apprenticeship
  • reference to:
    • relevant scientific and engineering principles and theories
    • relevant techniques, procedures and methods used
    • relevant drawings and mathematical calculations at level 4
    • the use of appropriate and approved materials, components or parts
    • relevant industry policies, standards, regulations and legislations
    • environmental and sustainability concerns
    • cost, quality, safety, security, environmental impact and lifecycle of civil engineering solutions
  • project outcomes and the rationale for the chosen project solution presented
  • conclusions

The apprentice must prepare a technical project report with appendices of supporting evidence relating to the technical project. The technical project report and all appendices of supporting evidence directly demonstrating performance of KSBs must be attributable to the apprentice in full. Evidence must be accompanied by a witness statement outlining the apprentice’s contribution, signed by the apprentice and their employer thereby authenticating it.

Example appendices of supporting evidence may include:

  • plans
  • diagrams
  • calculations
  • designs
  • feedback
  • video clips

This list is not definitive and other evidence sources apart from self-reflection are permissible.

To allow the apprentice to apply for professional registration on completion of the apprenticeship, two independent assessors must holistically assess all assessment methods, in line with the independent assessor requirements set out in this plan. They will have equal responsibility in grading the assessment. The use of two independent assessors will enable the provision of balance to assessment, to bring in greater breadth and depth of technical expertise to questioning and discussion with the apprentice, elucidating more accurate grading decisions.

In the event that the two independent assessors cannot agree on whether to grade the technical project and presentation with questions with a pass, fail or distinction, the EPAO is required to moderate in accordance with their moderation procedures. The EPAO will then make the final decision on the grade to award based on the assessment evidence presented.

The project report must have a word count of 3500 words. A tolerance of 10% above or below is allowed at the apprentice’s discretion. Appendices, references and diagrams are not included in this total. The apprentice must produce and include a mapping in an appendix, showing how the report evidences the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The apprentice must complete and submit the report and any presentation materials to the EPAO by the end of week 6 of the EPA period.

Component 2: Presentation with questions

The presentation 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.

The apprentice must prepare and deliver a presentation to an independent assessor. After the presentation, the independent assessor must ask the apprentice questions about their project, report and presentation.

The presentation should cover:

  • an overview of the project
  • the project scope (including key performance indicators)
  • summary of actions undertaken by the apprentice
  • project outcomes and how these were achieved

The presentation with questions must last 30 minutes. This will typically include a presentation of 10 minutes and questioning lasting 20 minutes. The independent assessor must use the full time available for questioning. The independent assessor can increase the time of the presentation and questioning by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete their last point or respond to a question if necessary.

The independent assessor must ask at least 5 questions. They must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow up questions are allowed where clarification is required.

The purpose of the independent assessor's questions is:

  • to verify that the activity was completed by the apprentice
  • to seek clarification where required
  • to assess those KSBs that the apprentice did not have the opportunity to demonstrate with the report, although these should be kept to a minimum
  • to assess level of competence against the grading descriptors

The apprentice must submit any presentation materials to the EPAO at the same time as the report - by the end of week 6 of the EPA period. The apprentice must notify the EPAO, at that point, of any technical requirements for the presentation.

During the presentation, the apprentice must have access to:

  • Audio-visual presentation equipment
  • Flip chart and writing and drawing materials
  • Computer

The independent assessor must have at least 3 weeks to review the project report and any presentation materials, to allow them to prepare questions.

The apprentice must be given at least 3 weeks’ notice of the presentation with questions.

Assessment decision

The independent assessor must make the grading decision. They must assess the project components holistically when deciding the grade.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the KSBs demonstrated in the report and presentation with questions
  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the grade achieved

Assessment location

The presentation with questions must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises. It should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

Question and resource development

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.

EPAO must produce the following materials to support the project:

  • independent assessor EPA materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Overview

In the professional discussion, two independent assessors and the apprentice have a formal three-way conversation. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate their competency across the KSBs as shown in the mapping.

Rationale

The professional discussion is a valid method to assess those KSBs that are not likely to occur in the technical project report. Civil engineering senior technicians will be expected to be able to discuss their portfolio, where evidence and results of work-based tasks or projects carried out as part of their apprenticeship, can be used to underpin assessment in a formal setting and where apprentices’ will be able to explain in detail their work.

Delivery

The professional discussion must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this EPA method to the highest available grade.

The purpose of the two independent assessor's questions will be to:

  • clarify any questions the independent assessors have from their review of the portfolio
  • explore aspects of the work, including how it was carried out, in more detail
  • require the apprentice to draw on their portfolio evidence to demonstrate the KSBs

The EPAO must give an apprentice 3 weeks notice of the professional discussion.

The independent assessors must have at least 3 week(s) to review the supporting documentation.

Apprentices must have access to their during the professional discussion.

Apprentices can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their , however the is not directly assessed.

The professional discussion must last for 40 minutes. The independent assessors can increase the time of the professional discussion by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.

For the professional discussion, the independent assessors must ask at least 6 questions. Follow-up questions are allowed. The independent assessors must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training. The professional discussion must allow the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this EPA method at the highest possible grade.

The two independent assessors conduct and assess the professional discussion.

The independent assessors must keep accurate records of the assessment. The records must include the KSBs met, the grade achieved and answers to questions.

To allow the apprentice to apply for professional registration on completion of the apprenticeship, two independent assessors must holistically assess all assessment methods, in line with the independent assessor requirements set out in this plan. They will have equal responsibility in grading the assessment. The use of two independent assessors will enable the provision of balance to assessment, to bring in greater breadth and depth of technical expertise to questioning and discussion with the apprentice, elucidating more accurate grading decisions.

In the event that the two independent assessors cannot agree on whether to grade the technical project and presentation with a pass, fail or distinction, the EPAO is required to moderate in accordance with their moderation procedures. The EPAO will then make the final decision on the grade to award based on the assessment evidence presented.

Assessment location

The professional discussion must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s or employer’s premises).

The professional discussion 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 professional discussion should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

Question and resource development

EPAOs must write an assessment specification and question bank. The specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs shown in the mapping. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. EPAOs should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. The assessment specification and questions must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

EPAOs will develop purpose-built question banks and ensure that appropriate quality assurance procedures are in place, for example, considering standardisation, training and moderation. EPAOs will ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.

EPAOs must ensure that apprentices have a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

EPAOs must produce the following materials to support the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and employer

Grading

Technical project report and presentation with questioning

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Civil engineering technical knowledge and techniques
K1 K2 S1 S2

Applies and interprets appropriate engineering principles, scientific, theoretical and technical knowledge and techniques, procedures and methods to the civil engineering problem outlined in the technical project brief and assesses the outcomes (K1, K2, S1, S2)

Evaluates the effectiveness and relevance of the methods and techniques used, justifying those adopted to solve the civil engineering problem (K2, S2)

Data collection, analysis and evaluation
K3 K5 S3 S5 B4

Uses advanced mathematical, statistical and analytical techniques to interpret and solve the civil engineering problem outlined in the technical project brief (K3, S3)

Collects, analyses and evaluates data and technical information accurately using appropriate techniques and methods, explaining the different types and uses of information in relation to the civil engineering problem outlined in the technical project brief (K5, S5, B4)

Justifies the techniques adopted to solve the problem presented (S3)

Justifies the use of specific types of information in support of the civil engineering solution proposed (S5)

Use of resources and materials
K4 K14 S4 S13 B2

Explains the choice of materials, components or parts used to solve the civil engineering problem outlined in the technical project brief, based on their properties, performance and approved use (K4, S4)

Formulates and applies project planning techniques and tools in relation to the civil engineering technical project, identifying appropriate specifications, and the resources, costs and timescales for delivery. Discusses the potential effects that cost, quality, safety, security and environmental impact the lifecycle of the civil engineering solution (K14, S13)

Explains how they made independent decisions during the project, and how they determined they were within their own limitations, and where beyond their limitations, how they sought support (B2)

 

 

Discusses their approach to materials, components or parts in terms of building safety and sustainable practice, and how this can improve the performance of the civil engineering solution proposed (K4, S4)

Explains how the choices of materials, components, parts promote sustainable practice and safety (K4, S4)

Appraises own performance when managing this project by comparing the outcomes of initial planned resources, timescales and costs against actual outcomes, and making recommendations that would further improve own performance (S13, B2)

 

Industry standards, policies and regulatory requirements
K9 K12 S7 S10

Interprets and applies relevant statutory and regulatory requirements, industry policies, standards, regulations, and legislation and codes of practice to the technical project solution presented (K9, S7)

 

Applies principles of sustainable development, environmental policies and legislation in civil engineering projects, recognising the need to reduce carbon use, lower emissions, and plan for wider sustainability (K12, S10)

Evaluates the impact of industry standards, regulations or guidance related to their project solution (K9, S7)

 

Evaluates how the civil engineering solution proposed could be improved for increased sustainability or reducing the impact on the environment (S10)

 

Communication
K15 S15

Uses appropriate communication techniques and methods for all project outcomes, incorporating relevant and appropriate terminology, and appropriate forms of referencing and citation in the written report and presentation (K15, S15)

N/A

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Design, technology and models in civil engineering information
K6 K7 K8 S6

Explains the principles and control processes used, and the common constraints faced, in the production of designs for civil engineering. (K6)

Explains how they effectively use analytical and computer-based software packages to prepare, produce and interpret civil engineering solutions. (K7, S6)

Explains the use and importance of digital modelling techniques, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), and their limitations, within civil engineering (K8)

Evaluates the impacts of the functional characteristics on the design solution (K6)

 

Explains how digital modelling techniques are used to improve civil engineering solutions (K7, K8, S6)

 

Project management and safe systems of work
K10 K11 K13 S8 S9 S11 S12 B1

Discusses project management principles and techniques used in civil engineering, explaining the techniques for recording and reporting progress, the relationship between project quality requirements and the need for continuous improvement (K13, S11, S12)

 

Describes how they apply health & safety regulations and legislation, and discusses the importance of, and how, safe working practices are implemented and fostered in civil engineering using Construction (Design and Management) (CDM) (K10, S8, B1)

Identifies, evaluates and mitigates the hazards and risks within civil engineering, using appropriate risk assessment methods (K11, S9)

Evaluates different management techniques used for various types of projects (K13, S11)

Evaluates the impact of health and safety legislation, how it has benefitted through changes in legislation within civil engineering (K10, S8, B1)

 

 

Roles, responsibilities and engagement with others
K16 K17 K18 S14 B3 B5

 

Describes the roles and responsibilities found in a civil engineering organisation, and the methods for performance evaluation (K16)

Explains how they monitor and manage their own performance at work, and how this impacts others in their team.

Describes the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion, how it supports fairness at work, and impacts civil engineering solutions (K18, S14, B3)

 

Describes the key stakeholders in civil engineering, the importance of communication, collaboration and decision-making processes to achieve contractual requirements and project success (K17, B5)

 

Evaluates the success of teams by considering individual and group working practices (K16, S14, B3)

Personal and professional practice
K19 K20 S16 S17 B6

Describes the methods for developing (IPD) and maintaining (CPD) professional competence and technical knowledge, and explains how they plan, undertake, review and improve their own professional competence, and supports others when requested (K20, S17, B6)

 

 

Explains how they apply ethical principles to civil engineering projects, including the secure use of data and information (K19, S16)

Discusses how they use their own performance to inform and improve their own or others’ practices (K19, S17, B6)

Overall EPA grading

The EPA methods contribute equally to the overall EPA grade.

Performance in the EPA will determine the apprenticeship grade of:

    • fail
    • pass
    • distinction

Independent assessors must individually grade the: technical project report and presentation with questioning and professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence according to the requirements set out in this EPA plan.

EPAOs must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.

Apprentices who fail one or more assessment method will be awarded an overall EPA fail.

Apprentices must achieve at least a pass in all the EPA methods to get an overall pass. In order to achieve an overall EPA ‘distinction’, apprentices must achieve a distinction in both assessment methods.

Grades from individual assessment methods should be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA as a whole.

Technical project report and presentation with questioning Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence Overall Grading
Fail Any grade Fail
Any grade Fail Fail
Pass Pass Pass
Pass Distinction Pass
Distinction Pass Pass
Distinction Distinction Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

Apprentices who fail one or more EPA method(s) can take a re-sit or a re-take at the 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.

Apprentices should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.

The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 4 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 EPA 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 apprentices wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.

An 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 and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

  • complete on-programme training to meet the KSBs as outlined in the apprenticeship standard for a minimum of 12 months
  • complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules and as arranged by the employer and training provider
  • understand the purpose and importance of EPA
  • prepare for and undertake the EPA including meeting all gateway requirements

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the training provider
  • work with the training provider to select the EPAO
  • work with the training provider, where applicable, to support the apprentice in the workplace and to provide the opportunities for the apprentice to develop the KSBs
  • arrange and support off-the-job training to be undertaken by the apprentice 
  • decide when the apprentice is working at or above the apprenticeship standard and is ready for EPA
  • ensure the apprentice is prepared for the EPA
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan
  • confirm arrangements with the EPAO for the EPA in a timely manner, including who, when, where
  • provide the EPAO with access to any employer-specific documentation as required for example, company policies
  • ensure that the EPA is scheduled with the EPAO for a date and time which allows appropriate opportunity for the apprentice to meet the KSBs
  • ensure the apprentice is given sufficient time away from regular duties to prepare for, and complete the EPA
  • ensure that any required supervision during the EPA period, as stated within this EPA plan, is in place
  • ensure the apprentice has access to the resources used to fulfil their role and carry out the EPA for workplace based assessments
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • pass the certificate to the apprentice upon receipt

EPAO

As a minimum, the EPAO must:

  • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner
  • conform to the requirements of the apprenticeship provider and assessment register
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP)
  • understand the apprenticeship including the occupational standard and EPA plan
  • make all necessary contractual arrangements including agreeing the price of the EPA
  • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials, for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material
  • maintain and apply a policy for the declaration and management of conflict of interests and independence. This must ensure, as a minimum, there is no personal benefit or detriment for those delivering the EPA or from the result of an assessment. It must cover:
    • apprentices
    • employers
    • independent assessors
    • any other roles involved in delivery or grading of the EPA
  • have quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent assessment and maintain records of internal quality assurance (IQA) activity for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes
  • appoint independent, competent, and suitably qualified assessors in line with the requirements of this EPA plan
  • appoint administrators, invigilators and any other roles where required to facilitate the EPA
  • deliver induction, initial and on-going training for all their independent assessors and any other roles involved in the delivery or grading of the EPA as specified within this EPA plan. This should include how to record the rationale and evidence for grading decisions where required
  • conduct standardisation with all their independent assessors before allowing them to deliver an EPA, when the EPA is updated, and at least once a year
  • conduct moderation across all of their independent assessors decisions once EPAs have started according to a sampling plan, with associated risk rating of independent assessors
  • monitor the performance of all their independent assessors and provide additional training where necessary
  • develop and provide assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to all relevant stakeholders
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the apprenticeship
  • arrange for the EPA to take place in a timely manner, in consultation with the employer
  • provide information, advice, and guidance documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA
  • confirm the gateway requirements have been met before they start the EPA for an apprentice
  • arrange a suitable venue for the EPA
  • maintain the security of the EPA including, but not limited to, verifying the identity of the apprentice, invigilation and security of materials
  • where the EPA plan permits assessment away from the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary
  • confirm the overall grade awarded
  • maintain and apply a policy for conducting appeals

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must:

  • be independent, with no conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider, specifically, they must not receive a personal benefit or detriment from the result of the assessment
  • have, maintain and be able to evidence up-to-date knowledge and expertise of the occupation
  • have the competence to assess the EPA and meet the requirements of the IQA section of this EPA plan
  • understand the apprenticeship’s occupational standard and EPA plan
  • attend induction and standardisation events before they conduct an EPA for the first time, when the EPA is updated, and at least once a year
  • use language in the delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the apprenticeship
  • work with other personnel, where used, in the preparation and delivery of assessment methods
  • conduct the EPA to assess the apprentice against the KSBs and in line with the EPA plan
  • make final grading decisions in line with this EPA plan
  • record and report assessment outcome decisions
  • comply with the IQA requirements of the EPAO
  • comply with external quality assurance (EQA) requirements

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must:

  • conform to the requirements of the apprenticeship provider and assessment register
  • ensure procedures are in place to mitigate against any conflict of interest
  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the KSBs as outlined in the occupational standard
  • deliver training to the apprentice as outlined in their apprenticeship agreement
  • monitor the apprentice’s progress during any training provider led on-programme learning
  • ensure the apprentice is prepared for the EPA
  • work with the employer to select the EPAO
  • advise the employer, upon request, on the apprentice’s readiness for EPA
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

  • how an apprentice qualifies for reasonable adjustment
  • what reasonable adjustments may be made

Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.

Internal quality assurance

Internal quality assurance refers to how EPAOs ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions. EPAOs must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities section and:

  • have effective and rigorous quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent EPA regardless of employer, place, time or independent assessor
  • appoint independent assessors who are competent to deliver the EPA and who:
    • have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 4 gained in the last 2 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector
    • hold, or are working towards, an assessor qualification
    • have professional body membership with:

      the Engineering Council, as a registered member of a relevant professional engineering institution (PEI)

  • operate induction training for anyone involved in the delivery and/or assessment of the EPA
  • provide training for independent assessors in good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and making grading decisions
  • provide ongoing training for markers and invigilators
  • provide standardisation activity for this apprenticeship standard for all independent assessors:
    • before they conduct an EPA for the first time
    • if the EPA is updated
    • periodically as appropriate (a minimum of annually)
  • conduct effective moderation of EPA decisions and grades
  • conduct appeals where required, according to the EPAO’s appeals procedure, reviewing and making final decisions on EPA decisions and grades
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider. In all instances, including when the EPAO is the training provider (for example a higher education institution)

Value for money

Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:

  • utilising digital remote platforms to conduct applicable assessment methods
  • using the employer’s premises
  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship standard is designed to prepare successful apprentices to meet the requirements for registration as a:

Engineering Council (EngTech) for level 4

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

Engineering principles, underpinned by relevant scientific, theoretical and technical knowledge and understanding to solve well-defined civil engineering problems

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K2

Civil engineering techniques, procedures and methods used for civil engineering systems, to either measure and test, design, install, commission, maintain or operate

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K3

Advanced mathematical, statistical and analytical problem-solving tools

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K4

Properties of, and selection criteria for materials, components or parts used in civil engineering solutions

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K5

Techniques and methods to collect data and technical information, to analyse and evaluate civil engineering problems

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K6

Design principles and control processes used in the civil engineering consultancy, construction or manufacturing process, and the common constraints faced

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K7

Technical drawings, designs, and models, using analytical and computer-based software packages

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K8

Uses and limitations of computational and digital models, including Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K9

Industry policies, standards, regulations and legislation, and codes of practice, including Building Safety legislation, Construction (Design and Management) (CDM) or Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB)

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K10

Statutory health, safety and welfare policies, procedures, and regulations including the Construction (Design and Management) regulation

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K11

Risk assessment and mitigation processes, and their importance in the civil engineering environment

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K12

Principles of sustainable development and their impact on the lifecycle of civil engineering solutions, including United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), net-zero carbon emissions, environmental policies and legislations, and the climate change act

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K13

Project management techniques, including quality and information management and assurance systems and continuous improvement processes

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K14

Methods for planning and resourcing civil engineering tasks, and the impact on cost, quality, safety, security, and environment

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K15

Methods of communication and when to use them, using appropriate engineering terminology and conventions

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
K16

Roles and responsibilities within the organisation, team dynamics and their own boundaries of authority

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K17

Relationships between key organisations in the civil engineering sector (for example organisations, customers, partners and suppliers)

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K18

Equality, diversity and inclusion, its importance and impact on civil engineering solutions

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K19

Ethical principles as applied to civil engineering including the need for the confidentiality and security of data and information

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K20

Methods to maintain professional competence and technical knowledge including initial professional development (IPD) and continuing professional development (CPD)

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Skill Assessment methods
S1

Apply engineering principles, using relevant scientific, theoretical and technical know-how to solve well-defined civil engineering problems

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S2

Apply civil engineering techniques, procedures and methods, and review the results, when measuring and testing, designing, installing, commissioning, maintaining or operating civil engineering systems

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S3

Employ a range of advanced mathematical, statistical and data interpretation tools, using analytical and computational methods to interpret and solve civil engineering problems

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S4

Interpret and compare performance information to choose compliant materials, components or parts

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S5

Select and use technical literature and other sources of information and data to address well-defined civil engineering problems

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S6

Produce and interpret civil engineering technical drawings, designs, and models, using analytical and computer-based software packages, recognising the limitations of the software used

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S7

Produce civil engineering technical solutions in accordance with relevant industry standards, procedures, codes of practice, regulations, and legislation

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S8

Comply with, and encourage others to demonstrate, statutory health, safety and welfare policies, procedures and regulation

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S9

Complete risk assessments to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S10

Apply principles of sustainable development, and assess the impact of these in their work

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S11

Employ project management techniques, measuring and recording progress against civil engineering project plans

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S12

Assess and report on quality using appropriate management and assurance systems and continuous improvement processes

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S13

Identify and use resources, equipment and technology to meet project requirements, including specifications, budget and timescales

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S14

Monitor and manage individual performance, and supervise others, recognising the need to comply with appropriate codes of practice and equality, diversity & inclusion (EDI) requirements

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S15

Communicate using appropriate methods for the audience, using appropriate engineering terminology and conventions

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
S16

Apply ethical principles to civil engineering projects, including the secure use of data and information

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S17

Plan, undertake and review their own professional competence, updating and reviewing their CPD to improve performance

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Behaviour Assessment methods
B1

Works to health, safety and welfare requirements, industry standards, statutory regulation and legislation, policies, and codes of practice, and ensuring others do likewise

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B2

Makes independent decisions when delivering civil engineering projects, whilst knowing their own limitations and when to ask for help or to escalate

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
B3

Works individually and as part of a team, being aware of their actions and the impact they may have on others, and demonstrating awareness of diversity and inclusion issues so as to meet the requirement of fairness at work

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B4

Solves problems with attention to detail, accuracy, and diligence, and seeks to continually improve

Back to Grading
Technical project report and presentation with questioning
B5

Maintains professional and ethical working relationships with internal, external, and other stakeholders

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B6

Takes responsibility for their own professional development, seeking opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills, and experience, and support others when requested

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Technical project report and presentation with questioning

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Civil engineering technical knowledge and techniques
K1 K2
S1 S2

Engineering principles, underpinned by relevant scientific, theoretical and technical knowledge and understanding to solve well-defined civil engineering problems (K1)

Civil engineering techniques, procedures and methods used for civil engineering systems, to either measure and test, design, install, commission, maintain or operate (K2)

Apply engineering principles, using relevant scientific, theoretical and technical know-how to solve well-defined civil engineering problems (S1)

Apply civil engineering techniques, procedures and methods, and review the results, when measuring and testing, designing, installing, commissioning, maintaining or operating civil engineering systems (S2)

None

Data collection, analysis and evaluation
K3 K5
S3 S5
B4

Advanced mathematical, statistical and analytical problem-solving tools (K3)

Techniques and methods to collect data and technical information, to analyse and evaluate civil engineering problems (K5)

Employ a range of advanced mathematical, statistical and data interpretation tools, using analytical and computational methods to interpret and solve civil engineering problems (S3)

Select and use technical literature and other sources of information and data to address well-defined civil engineering problems (S5)

Solves problems with attention to detail, accuracy, and diligence, and seeks to continually improve (B4)

Use of resources and materials
K4 K14
S4 S13
B2

Properties of, and selection criteria for materials, components or parts used in civil engineering solutions (K4)

Methods for planning and resourcing civil engineering tasks, and the impact on cost, quality, safety, security, and environment (K14)

Interpret and compare performance information to choose compliant materials, components or parts (S4)

Identify and use resources, equipment and technology to meet project requirements, including specifications, budget and timescales (S13)

Makes independent decisions when delivering civil engineering projects, whilst knowing their own limitations and when to ask for help or to escalate (B2)

Industry standards, policies and regulatory requirements
K9 K12
S7 S10

Industry policies, standards, regulations and legislation, and codes of practice, including Building Safety legislation, Construction (Design and Management) (CDM) or Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) (K9)

Principles of sustainable development and their impact on the lifecycle of civil engineering solutions, including United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), net-zero carbon emissions, environmental policies and legislations, and the climate change act (K12)

Produce civil engineering technical solutions in accordance with relevant industry standards, procedures, codes of practice, regulations, and legislation (S7)

Apply principles of sustainable development, and assess the impact of these in their work (S10)

None

Communication
K15
S15

Methods of communication and when to use them, using appropriate engineering terminology and conventions (K15)

Communicate using appropriate methods for the audience, using appropriate engineering terminology and conventions (S15)

None

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Design, technology and models in civil engineering information
K6 K7 K8
S6

Design principles and control processes used in the civil engineering consultancy, construction or manufacturing process, and the common constraints faced (K6)

Technical drawings, designs, and models, using analytical and computer-based software packages (K7)

Uses and limitations of computational and digital models, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) (K8)

Produce and interpret civil engineering technical drawings, designs, and models, using analytical and computer-based software packages, recognising the limitations of the software used (S6)

None

Project management and safe systems of work
K10 K11 K13
S8 S9 S11 S12
B1

Statutory health, safety and welfare policies, procedures, and regulations including the Construction (Design and Management) regulation (K10)

Risk assessment and mitigation processes, and their importance in the civil engineering environment (K11)

Project management techniques, including quality and information management and assurance systems and continuous improvement processes (K13)

Comply with, and encourage others to demonstrate, statutory health, safety and welfare policies, procedures and regulation (S8)

Complete risk assessments to identify, evaluate and mitigate risks (S9)

Employ project management techniques, measuring and recording progress against civil engineering project plans (S11)

Assess and report on quality using appropriate management and assurance systems and continuous improvement processes (S12)

Works to health, safety and welfare requirements, industry standards, statutory regulation and legislation, policies, and codes of practice, and ensuring others do likewise (B1)

Roles, responsibilities and engagement with others
K16 K17 K18
S14
B3 B5

Roles and responsibilities within the organisation, team dynamics and their own boundaries of authority (K16)

Relationships between key organisations in the civil engineering sector (for example organisations, customers, partners and suppliers) (K17)

Equality, diversity and inclusion, its importance and impact on civil engineering solutions (K18)

Monitor and manage individual performance, and supervise others, recognising the need to comply with appropriate codes of practice and equality, diversity & inclusion (EDI) requirements (S14)

Works individually and as part of a team, being aware of their actions and the impact they may have on others, and demonstrating awareness of diversity and inclusion issues so as to meet the requirement of fairness at work (B3)

Maintains professional and ethical working relationships with internal, external, and other stakeholders (B5)

Personal and professional practice
K19 K20
S16 S17
B6

Ethical principles as applied to civil engineering including the need for the confidentiality and security of data and information (K19)

Methods to maintain professional competence and technical knowledge including initial professional development (IPD) and continuing professional development (CPD) (K20)

Apply ethical principles to civil engineering projects, including the secure use of data and information (S16)

Plan, undertake and review their own professional competence, updating and reviewing their CPD to improve performance (S17)

Takes responsibility for their own professional development, seeking opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills, and experience, and support others when requested (B6)

Employers involved in creating the standard: Tony Gee & Partners, Mott MacDonald, WSP, Balfour Beatty, Arup, Capita, Systra, Stantec, Skanska, BDP, Cormac, Wiltshire Council, Transport for London, EDF, Morgan Sindall, Laing O’Rourke, Curtins, Clancy, Aecom

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.3 Occupational standard and end-point assessment plan revised. Update to mandated qualifications 05/09/2024 Not set Not set
1.2 Occupational standard and end-point assessment plan revised. 03/04/2024 04/09/2024 Not set
1.1 Standard, funding band and end-point assessment plan revised 01/07/2022 02/04/2024 Not set
1.0 Approved for delivery 27/03/2018 30/06/2022 Not set

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