This apprenticeship has options. This document is currently showing the following option:
Maintaining digital and technology strategies through technology leadership.
This occupation is found in organisations where digital technologies can be used to solve problems that exist across a range of functions. Whether looking for ways to reduce waste, increase productivity, ensure resilient and responsive customer service, or create a secure transactional environment, organisations turn to digital and technological solutions to achieve these aims. Wherever these activities take place Digital and Technology Solutions Professionals (DTSPs) are influencing outcomes and making things happen.
DTSPs are found in small, medium and large organisations across all industries such as banking and finance, digital and technology, communications, construction, education, utilities, engineering, law, manufacturing, health, government and public services pharmaceutical, retail and transport.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to evaluate, initiate, create and support business solutions using digital technology. DTSPs use data to evaluate the commercial and security risks and benefits of potential digital and technology solutions before making recommendations for strategies that may have far reaching consequences.
DTSPs are influencers in their organisations with a clear focus on delivering business improvements through digital and technological solutions. They have a passion for digital technology; keeping in touch with emerging trends and developments .
DTSPs have a broad set of skills and knowledge across the main areas of the digital and technology landscape. This enables them to understand the complexity of information systems, systems development, data, cyber security, business organisation, IT project management and computer and network infrastructures . They view all of this with a rigorous approach to commerciality and budget to deliver quality solutions.
In addition to this broad set of skills and knowledge they specialise in one of the following areas:
For example:
In a communications company DTSP Network Engineers could be involved in developing additions to an existing national network.
In their daily work DTSPs are excellent communicators and may interact with internal and external customers, team members and senior leaders. They can work independently and within multi-disciplinary teams . They may interact with decision-makers, strategists, and policymakers, often in senior roles in private or public sector organisations as well as with individuals and groups (internal and external) with a stake in the defined system, currently or in the future.
An employee in this occupation is likely to have some responsibility for budgets and/or resources, teams, and projects. In some organisations they may hold leadership positions. Work may typically be conducted in a desk-based environment, but that desk may be in an office or on a site depending on the solution being worked upon.
For example. a DTSP Software Engineer could be working on a client’s site during the development and implementation of a new client system.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working with little or no supervision and may be accountable for the supervision of others if the position requires it.
DTSPs are at the heart of problem solving, bringing an innovative, multi-disciplined approach to bear where there are unpredictable and variable influencing factors. They may have a remit to commission work from others and hold them accountable for outputs of a technical nature. Their professional position within a business means they fulfil a leadership role within their technical specialism demonstrating a strong ethical awareness of technological trends.
A description of each specialism follows:
Option 1) Software Engineer
The primary role of the Software Engineer is to undertake all requirements during the solution development life-cycle from gathering requirements to analysis, design, code, build, test, implementation and support. They may also be required to supervise the work of junior software developers and others who may be working on elements of the solution and work with product managers and UX designers in implementing solutions. They will apply software engineering principles to all stages of the solution life-cycle, from gathering requirements, undertaking analysis and design, development of code and data requirements whilst also ensuring security feature are addressed. As well as creating new code, they can support existing code by troubleshooting, reverse engineering and conducting root cause analysis. They typically work as part of a large collaborative team and will have responsibility for significant elements of software solutions.
Option 2) IT Consultant
An IT consultant bridges the gap between users and technology: they reinvent the digital world of the future. They require a broad set of skills in business analysis , solutions development, network infrastructure, data, cyber security etc. They use their consulting skills to get to the root of a problem and advise clients, both externally and internally, on how to best utilise technology to meet their business objectives, overcome problems and increase productivity. They provide strategic guidance and training to clients, both externally and internally, about digital and technology solutions. They facilitate changing business processes, improved structure, and efficiency through enhancements to digital and technology solutions . They design, build and install innovative customer experiences using the latest technologies to win business for their organisation.
Option 3) Business Analyst
A business analyst is an interpreter between two worlds: business and IT, bridging the gap of understanding between business and technology teams. They analyse and understand business needs and define and manage business requirements . They oversee design and delivery of tested system solutions throughout a project life-cycle to ensure these meet business requirements . They are key communicators and drivers of collaboration throughout the development life cycle. They are focused on the customer and work closely with the IT delivery team. They are essential in the development of successful digital and technology solutions through their rigorous analysis of business requirements to inform their recommendations and insight.
Option 4) Cyber Security Analyst
A Cyber Security Analyst leads in the work to define, implement and maintain security products and systems within an organisation’s policies and service level agreements . They will need to analyse and understand the points of vulnerability within IT systems and a proactive and agile approach to maintain high levels of systems and organisational security. They will monitor security performance using tools, statistical reporting and analysis, using the output of monitoring to problem solve, propose improvements and implement changes to meet service level requirements. A Cyber Security Analyst leads technical implementation of security infrastructures and technical designs, including producing cost and timescale estimates and identifying risks. After implementation they take ownership for obtaining the information required to diagnose and resolve more complex problems and escalations such as security incidents and business recovery. They engage with third parties to jointly resolve in-depth product issues where necessary and completing cyber risk assessments .
Option 5) Data Analyst
The primary role of a data analyst is to collect, organise and study data to provide new business insight to a range of stakeholders . They are responsible for leading the provision of up-to-date, accurate and relevant data analysis for the organisation. They are typically involved with managing, cleansing, abstracting and aggregating data across the network infrastructure. They look for opportunities to build data driven insights into decision makin g. They have a current understanding of data structures, software development procedures and the range of analytical tools used to undertake a wide range of standard and custom analytical studies , providing data solutions to a range of business issues. They are comfortable supporting teams and colleagues with analytics and report the results of data analysis activities making recommendations to improve business performance .
Option 6) Network Engineer
The primary role of a network engineer is to lead in the planning, design , installation, maintenance and support of communication networks within an organisation or between organisations. They take a proactive and agile approach to maintain high levels of network performance and availability for their users, such as staff, clients, customers and suppliers. They understand network configuration, cloud, network administration and monitoring tools , and give technical advice and guidance to their users . As part of their role they analyse system requirements to ensure the network and its services operate to desired levels with security at the heart of everything they do . They understand data traffic and transmission across the network and have a major role to play in ensuring network security and resilience . They are the key problem solver when networks fail and respond with resilience under pressure.
This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 48 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.
The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.
The gateway requirements for your EPA are:
For the digital and technology solutions professional, the qualification required is:
Digital and Technology Solutions Professional
Project with report
You will complete a project and write a report. You will be asked to complete a project. The title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO at the gateway. The report should be a maximum of 6000 words (with a 10% tolerance).
You will have 12 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 60 minutes. The independent assessor will ask at least 4 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 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 4 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.
You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.
You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.
You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.
If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.
This apprenticeship aligns with British Computer Society for Registered IT Technician (RITTech)
Please contact the professional body for more details.
This occupation is found in organisations where digital technologies can be used to solve problems that exist across a range of functions. Whether looking for ways to reduce waste, increase productivity, ensure resilient and responsive customer service, or create a secure transactional environment, organisations turn to digital and technological solutions to achieve these aims. Wherever these activities take place Digital and Technology Solutions Professionals (DTSPs) are influencing outcomes and making things happen.
DTSPs are found in small, medium and large organisations across all industries such as banking and finance, digital and technology, communications, construction, education, utilities, engineering, law, manufacturing, health, government and public services pharmaceutical, retail and transport.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to evaluate, initiate, create and support business solutions using digital technology. DTSPs use data to evaluate the commercial and security risks and benefits of potential digital and technology solutions before making recommendations for strategies that may have far reaching consequences.
DTSPs are influencers in their organisations with a clear focus on delivering business improvements through digital and technological solutions. They have a passion for digital technology; keeping in touch with emerging trends and developments .
DTSPs have a broad set of skills and knowledge across the main areas of the digital and technology landscape. This enables them to understand the complexity of information systems, systems development, data, cyber security, business organisation, IT project management and computer and network infrastructures . They view all of this with a rigorous approach to commerciality and budget to deliver quality solutions.
In addition to this broad set of skills and knowledge they specialise in one of the following areas:
For example:
In a communications company DTSP Network Engineers could be involved in developing additions to an existing national network.
In their daily work DTSPs are excellent communicators and may interact with internal and external customers, team members and senior leaders. They can work independently and within multi-disciplinary teams . They may interact with decision-makers, strategists, and policymakers, often in senior roles in private or public sector organisations as well as with individuals and groups (internal and external) with a stake in the defined system, currently or in the future.
An employee in this occupation is likely to have some responsibility for budgets and/or resources, teams, and projects. In some organisations they may hold leadership positions. Work may typically be conducted in a desk-based environment, but that desk may be in an office or on a site depending on the solution being worked upon.
For example. a DTSP Software Engineer could be working on a client’s site during the development and implementation of a new client system.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working with little or no supervision and may be accountable for the supervision of others if the position requires it.
DTSPs are at the heart of problem solving, bringing an innovative, multi-disciplined approach to bear where there are unpredictable and variable influencing factors. They may have a remit to commission work from others and hold them accountable for outputs of a technical nature. Their professional position within a business means they fulfil a leadership role within their technical specialism demonstrating a strong ethical awareness of technological trends.
A description of each specialism follows:
Option 1) Software Engineer
The primary role of the Software Engineer is to undertake all requirements during the solution development life-cycle from gathering requirements to analysis, design, code, build, test, implementation and support. They may also be required to supervise the work of junior software developers and others who may be working on elements of the solution and work with product managers and UX designers in implementing solutions. They will apply software engineering principles to all stages of the solution life-cycle, from gathering requirements, undertaking analysis and design, development of code and data requirements whilst also ensuring security feature are addressed. As well as creating new code, they can support existing code by troubleshooting, reverse engineering and conducting root cause analysis. They typically work as part of a large collaborative team and will have responsibility for significant elements of software solutions.
Option 2) IT Consultant
An IT consultant bridges the gap between users and technology: they reinvent the digital world of the future. They require a broad set of skills in business analysis , solutions development, network infrastructure, data, cyber security etc. They use their consulting skills to get to the root of a problem and advise clients, both externally and internally, on how to best utilise technology to meet their business objectives, overcome problems and increase productivity. They provide strategic guidance and training to clients, both externally and internally, about digital and technology solutions. They facilitate changing business processes, improved structure, and efficiency through enhancements to digital and technology solutions . They design, build and install innovative customer experiences using the latest technologies to win business for their organisation.
Option 3) Business Analyst
A business analyst is an interpreter between two worlds: business and IT, bridging the gap of understanding between business and technology teams. They analyse and understand business needs and define and manage business requirements . They oversee design and delivery of tested system solutions throughout a project life-cycle to ensure these meet business requirements . They are key communicators and drivers of collaboration throughout the development life cycle. They are focused on the customer and work closely with the IT delivery team. They are essential in the development of successful digital and technology solutions through their rigorous analysis of business requirements to inform their recommendations and insight.
Option 4) Cyber Security Analyst
A Cyber Security Analyst leads in the work to define, implement and maintain security products and systems within an organisation’s policies and service level agreements . They will need to analyse and understand the points of vulnerability within IT systems and a proactive and agile approach to maintain high levels of systems and organisational security. They will monitor security performance using tools, statistical reporting and analysis, using the output of monitoring to problem solve, propose improvements and implement changes to meet service level requirements. A Cyber Security Analyst leads technical implementation of security infrastructures and technical designs, including producing cost and timescale estimates and identifying risks. After implementation they take ownership for obtaining the information required to diagnose and resolve more complex problems and escalations such as security incidents and business recovery. They engage with third parties to jointly resolve in-depth product issues where necessary and completing cyber risk assessments .
Option 5) Data Analyst
The primary role of a data analyst is to collect, organise and study data to provide new business insight to a range of stakeholders . They are responsible for leading the provision of up-to-date, accurate and relevant data analysis for the organisation. They are typically involved with managing, cleansing, abstracting and aggregating data across the network infrastructure. They look for opportunities to build data driven insights into decision makin g. They have a current understanding of data structures, software development procedures and the range of analytical tools used to undertake a wide range of standard and custom analytical studies , providing data solutions to a range of business issues. They are comfortable supporting teams and colleagues with analytics and report the results of data analysis activities making recommendations to improve business performance .
Option 6) Network Engineer
The primary role of a network engineer is to lead in the planning, design , installation, maintenance and support of communication networks within an organisation or between organisations. They take a proactive and agile approach to maintain high levels of network performance and availability for their users, such as staff, clients, customers and suppliers. They understand network configuration, cloud, network administration and monitoring tools , and give technical advice and guidance to their users . As part of their role they analyse system requirements to ensure the network and its services operate to desired levels with security at the heart of everything they do . They understand data traffic and transmission across the network and have a major role to play in ensuring network security and resilience . They are the key problem solver when networks fail and respond with resilience under pressure.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 1 Critically analyse a business domain to identify opportunities for improvement |
K1 K2 K3 K5 K7 K8 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K19 K20 |
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Duty 2 Analyse business and technical requirements to select and specify appropriate technology solutions. |
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Duty 3 Identify organisational information requirements and model data solutions using conceptual data modelling techniques |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K7 K8 K9 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K19 K20 |
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Duty 4 undertake a security risk assessment for a simple IT system to identify, analyse and evaluate security threats and hazards to planned and installed information systems or services (e.g. Cloud services) and provide recommendations. |
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Duty 5 apply organisational theory, change management, marketing, strategic practice, human resource management and IT service management to technology solutions development. |
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Duty 6 follow a systematic methodology for initiating, planning, executing, controlling, and closing technology solutions projects using industry standard processes, methods, techniques and tools to execute and manage projects. |
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Duty 7 plan, design and manage computer networks with an overall focus on the services and capabilities that network infrastructure solutions enable in an organisational context. Identifies network security risks and their resolution. |
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Duty 8 communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders both technical and non-technical at all levels of influence and responsibility. |
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Duty 9 devise and engage in continuous professional development |
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Duty 10 conduct and present effective research using engaging, well-structured approaches |
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Duty 11 design, build and test high-quality software solutions. |
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Duty 12 apply engineering principles to all stages of the software development process, from requirements, analysis and design, development and data requirements |
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Duty 13 Apply skills and knowledge of systems development, cyber security, data, AI and infrastructure in the creation of digital solutions. |
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Duty 14 Analyse ethical and legal implications of digital and technology solutions and make recommendations as a result of this analysis. For example, with regard to artificial intelligence or the use of personal data. |
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Duty 15 Mentor others in the development and implementation of digital and technical solutions. |
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| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 16 Accountable for the undertaking and completion of the analysis of software engineering business issues for either the entire requirement or subset thereof dependent on complexity and/or scope size. |
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Duty 17 Implement the software solution, or part thereof, dependent on complexity, scope size and technology (including bespoke code, implementation of COTS package, or tailoring of package, or combinations of these) into the environment required (including systems test, user test environment, or live environment as appropriate). |
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Duty 18 Creation of an over-arching software solution design suitable to resolving the business issues for either the entire requirement or subset thereof dependent on complexity and/or scope size. |
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Duty 19 Build the software solution, or part thereof, dependent on complexity, scope size, and technology (including bespoke code, implementation of COTS (Commercial-off-the-shelf) package, or tailoring of package, or combinations of these). |
K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28
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Duty 20 Supervise the work of more junior team members undertaking work in the software solution life-cycle |
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Duty 21 Test that the software solution, or part thereof, dependent on complexity, scope size and technology (including bespoke code, implementation of COTS package, or tailoring of package, or combinations of these) meets the business needs identifying any remedial actions required |
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Duty 22 Work closely with all key stakeholders to ensure the software solution or part thereof, dependent on complexity and scope size, is understood and correctly used. |
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Duty 23 Ongoing support of the software solution or part thereof, dependent on complexity and technology (including bespoke code, implementation of COTS package, or tailoring of package or combinations of these). |
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| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 24 Perform internal and external client interviews to identify short and long term digital and technology business goals. |
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Duty 25 Perform gap analysis against current industry best practices. |
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Duty 26 Distinguish, analyse and document digital and technology requirements and manage those requirements through a project life cycle. |
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Duty 27 Use a range of methodologies, techniques and work products to produce digital and technology solutions for internal and external clients. |
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Duty 28 Generate, develop and win new digital and technology business. |
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Duty 29 Create and use intellectual capital to solve diverse technology and digital business issues in innovative ways. |
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Duty 30 Design, test, install and monitor new systems and processes. |
S24 S25 S26 S27 S28 S29 S30 S31
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Duty 31 Devise and deliver training for users and other consultants. |
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Duty 32 Manage walk-throughs to identify, document and manage key technical risks within an internal or external client’s organisation. |
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Duty 33 Analyse an internal/external client’s IT environment to determine requirements and recommend technology and digital solutions to address their business problems and needs. |
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| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 34 Analyse an internal or external client’s business processes and recommend digital or process solutions to address their business problems and needs. |
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Duty 35 Distinguish, analyse and document business requirements and manage those requirements through a project life cycle. |
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Duty 36 Analyse data and be responsible for logical data models to create suggestions for strategic and operational improvements and changes. |
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Duty 37 Design the user interface and propose and produce prototypes, including the look and feel of the graphical design and navigational elements. |
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Duty 38 Formulate and interpret business requirements into System Functional requirements, developing proposed solution designs including architecture. |
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Duty 39 Develop business test scenarios and test cases for verifying that the "right system is built", to meet the organisation’s requirements. |
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Duty 40 Produce written documentation to support work, report findings and present to stakeholders. |
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| Duty | KSBs |
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Duty 41 Analyse and evaluate security threats to technology solutions and implement technical and process solutions to mitigate these threats. |
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Duty 42 Perform security risk assessments within wider IT development teams, ensuring cyber security is embedded within the deliverables of the team. |
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Duty 43 Lead a range of cyber security audit activities to demonstrate security control effectiveness. |
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Duty 44 Apply advanced problem solving techniques to address cyber security issues. |
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Duty 45 Plan and perform a business impact analysis in response to a security incident and implement a recovery plan. |
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Duty 46 Demonstrate effective management of cyber security processes and systems within the defined Service Level Agreements (SLAs). |
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| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 47 Analytic support for colleagues |
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Duty 48 Support the analytics strategy and measurement for specific teams across the business |
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Duty 49 Deliver insights, analysis, data and measurement that help the business achieve its objectives |
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Duty 50 Work with other stakeholders in order to understand their requirements |
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Duty 51 Keep up to date with the latest developments within the field of data analytics |
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| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 52 Analyse a network system and make recommendations to optimise performance and efficiencies of network systems. |
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Duty 53 Design operational networks and apply appropriate security products and processes in line with organisational requirements. |
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Duty 54 Plan system upgrades to a network or hardware or software or operating systems. |
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Duty 55 Produce relevant network information or documentation to meet user needs. |
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Duty 56 Maintain accurate logical records in line with organisational policy and when carrying out network tasks and identify when network updates are required. |
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Duty 57 Interpret requirements and technical specifications in relation to network systems. |
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Duty 58 Escalate network security or resilience risk as appropriate, providing solution/s to identified risk area. |
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Duty 59 Problem solve to address technical performance issues in network systems. |
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K1: How organisations adapt and exploit digital technology solutions to gain a competitive advantage.
Back to Duty
K2: The principles of strategic decision making concerning the acquisition or development of digital and technology solutions. For example business architecture approaches such as capability models and target operating models.
Back to Duty
K3: Principles of estimating the risks and opportunities of digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
K4: Techniques and approaches involved in creating a business case for new digital and technology solutions. For example journey, product and capability mapping and value chains.
Back to Duty
K5: A range of digital technology solution development techniques and tools.
Back to Duty
K6: The approaches and techniques used throughout the digital and technology solution lifecycle and their applicability to an organisation’s standards and pre-existing tools.
Back to Duty
K7: The roles, functions and activities within digital technology solutions within an organisation.
Back to Duty
K8: How teams work effectively to produce digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
K9: The concepts and principles of leadership.
Back to Duty
K10: Management techniques and theories. For example, effective decision making, delegation and planning methods, time management and change management.
Back to Duty
K11: The nature and scope of common vulnerabilities in digital and technology solutions. For example, the risks of unsecure coding and unprotected networks.
Back to Duty
K12: The role of data management systems within Digital and Technology Solutions.
Back to Duty
K13: Principles of data analysis for digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
K14: A range of quantitative and qualitative data gathering methods and how to appraise and select the appropriate method.
Back to Duty
K15: Principles of estimating cost, and time resource constraints within digital and technology solutions activities.
Back to Duty
K16: Fundamental computer networking concepts in relation to digital and technology solutions. For example, structure, cloud architecture, components, quality of service.
Back to Duty
K17: Reporting techniques, including how to synthesise information and present concisely, as appropriate to the target audience.
Back to Duty
K18: Techniques of robust research and evaluation for the justification of digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
K19: Relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to a digital and technology solution. For example, Diversity, Accessibility, Intellectual Property, Data Protection Acts, Codes of Practice, Regulatory and Compliance frameworks.
Back to Duty
K20: Sustainable development approaches as applied to digital and technology solutions such as green computing.
Back to Duty
K21: How to operate at all stages of the software development life cycle and how each stage is applied in a range of contexts. For example, requirements analysis, design, development, testing, implementation.
Back to Duty
K22: Principles of a range of development techniques, for each stage of the software development cycle that produce artefacts and the contexts in which they can be applied. For example UML, unit testing, programming, debugging, frameworks, architectures.
Back to Duty
K23: Principles of a range of development methods and approaches and the contexts in which they can be applied. For example Scrum, Extreme Programming, Waterfall, Prince2, TDD.
Back to Duty
K24: How to interpret and implement a design, compliant with functional, non-functional and security requirements including principles and approaches to addressing legacy software development issues from a technical and socio-technical perspective. For example architectures, languages, operating systems, hardware, business change.
Back to Duty
K25: The factors affecting product quality and approaches for how to control them throughout the development process. For example security, code quality, coding standards.
Back to Duty
K26: How to select and apply a range of software tools used in Software Engineering.
Back to Duty
K27: Approaches to the interpretation and use of artefacts. For example UML, unit tests, architecture.
Back to Duty
K28: Approaches to effective team work and the range of software development tools supporting effective teamwork. For example, configuration management, version control and release management.
Back to Duty
K29: Principles of different consulting methodologies. For example issue-based, and hypothesis based.
Back to Duty
K30: How consulting interfaces with project management, business analysis and business management.
Back to Duty
K31: Principles of change management within organisations.
Back to Duty
K32: The barriers to solving digital and technology problems or maximising opportunities.
Back to Duty
K33: Approaches to presenting recommendations to stakeholders and influencing action.
Back to Duty
K34: Approaches to analytical and critical thinking to define business problems objectively and create value for the client.
Back to Duty
K35: Questioning strategies and active listening to ensure all requirements are gathered.
Back to Duty
K36: The ethical and legal requirements in client and provider relationships.
Back to Duty
K37: Elicitation and Collaboration approaches, including how to prepare for and conduct elicitation activities and confirm the results.
Back to Duty
K38: Approaches to Requirements Life Cycle Management including how to manage and maintain requirements and design information from inception to retirement of a product.
Back to Duty
K39: Principles of Strategy Analysis, including how to identify the business need, address that need, and align the change strategy within the organisation.
Back to Duty
K40: Solution Evaluation, including how to assess the performance of and value delivered by a solution and to recommend improvements on increasing values.
Back to Duty
K41: Legislation and industry standards relevant to Business Analysis in the organisation and sector.
Back to Duty
K42: The purpose and value of quality assurance techniques.
Back to Duty
K43: A range of Business Analysis investigative techniques.
Back to Duty
K44: Approaches to change control and requirements management.
Back to Duty
K45: Principles of cyber security tools and techniques.
Back to Duty
K46: Principles of quantitative and qualitative risk management theory including the role of risk stakeholders.
Back to Duty
K47: Concepts and approaches to cyber security assurance.
Back to Duty
K48: Key legislative frameworks and the regulatory landscape for cyber security including Data Protection Act 2018 , Network Information System Directive 2018, Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, ISO 27001.
Back to Duty
K49: Approaches to incident response and management including escalation and investigation of cyber security breaches and their root cause.
Back to Duty
K50: Ethical principles and codes of good practice of at least one significant cyber security professional body and the ethical responsibilities of a cyber security professional.
Back to Duty
K51: Principles of common security architectures and methodologies.
Back to Duty
K52: Approaches to deployment of cyber security technology components in digital systems to provide security functionality. For example hardware and software to implement security controls.
Back to Duty
K53: The barriers that exist to effective data analysis between analysts and their stakeholders and how to avoid or resolve these.
Back to Duty
K54: How to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate complex information from diverse datasets.
Back to Duty
K55: Data formats, structures, architectures and data delivery methods including “unstructured” data.
Back to Duty
K56: Sources of data such as files, operational systems, databases, web services, open data, government data, news and social media.
Back to Duty
K57: Approaches to data processing and storage, database systems, data warehousing and online analytical processing, data-driven decision making and the good use of evidence and analytics in making choices and decisions.
Back to Duty
K58: How Data Analytics operates within the context of data governance, data security, and communications.
Back to Duty
K59: How Data Analytics can be applied to improve an organisation’s processes, operations and outputs.
Back to Duty
K60: How data and analysis may exhibit biases and prejudice. How ethics and compliance affect Data Analytics work, and the impact of international regulations. For example, General Data Protection Regulation, Data Protection Act 2018.
Back to Duty
K61: The role and function of virtual or physical network components and functions and typical topologies and service architectures.
Back to Duty
K62: The main network protocols in use, their purpose, features and relationship to each other. For example, Ethernet, IP (Internet Protocol), TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First).
Back to Duty
K63: The benefits and risks of cloud computing and the common integration deployments (private, public, hybrid). Including the benefits and risks of virtualisation as a concept; key features of virtualisation and current cloud platforms available.
Back to Duty
K64: The main factors that affect network performance, and how to mitigate these on network performance by implementing changes to QoS. For example, Traffic Shaping, Policing, Queuing, Topology (physical and logical), and Network Policy (Traffic Analysis, DPI (Deep Packet Inspection).
Back to Duty
K65: Principles of failure modes in protocols. For example, why a protocol may ‘hang’ and the effect of data communication errors and approaches to addressing failures to optimise network performance.
Back to Duty
K66: Key security concepts. For example threats, vulnerabilities, exploits, detection and mitigation techniques, and security program elements such as user awareness, physical access control, multi-layer defence models.
Back to Duty
K67: SDN (Software Defined Networking) and Network Function Virtualisation Core Principles. For example, Control Plane Separation, flexibility, overlay networks, disassociation of software and hardware layers.
Back to Duty
K68: Key elements of mobile networks. For example RAN (Radio Access Network), EPC (Evolved Packet Core), IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) including some specific key functions such as S/P/U-Gateways and the concepts in communicating over free-space media such as interference, ground bounce, encryption and in mobile endpoint platforms such as tracking user location and roaming.
Back to Duty
S1: Analyse a business problem to identify the role of digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
S2: Identify risks, determine mitigation strategies and opportunities for improvement in a digital and technology solutions project.
Back to Duty
S3: Analyse a business problem in order to specify an appropriate digital and technology solution.
Back to Duty
S4: Initiate, design, code, test and debug a software component for a digital and technology solution.
Back to Duty
S5: Apply relevant standard processes, methods, techniques and tools. For example, ISO Standards, Waterfall, Agile in a digital and technology solution project.
Back to Duty
S6: Manage digital and technology solutions projects. For example, identifying and resolving deviations from specification, applying appropriate Project Management methodologies.
Back to Duty
S7: Work effectively within teams, leading on appropriate digital technology solution activities.
Back to Duty
S8: Apply relevant organisational theories. For example, change management principles, marketing approaches, strategic practice, and IT service management to a digital and technology solutions project.
Back to Duty
S9: Apply relevant security and resilience techniques to a digital and technology solution. For example, risk assessments, mitigation strategies.
Back to Duty
S10: Initiate, design, implement and debug a data product for a digital and technology solution.
Back to Duty
S11: Determine and use appropriate data analysis techniques. For example, Text, Statistical, Diagnostic or Predictive Analysis to assess a digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
S12: Plan, design and manage simple computer networks with an overall focus on the services and capabilities that network infrastructure solutions enable in an organisational context.
Back to Duty
S13: Report effectively to colleagues and stakeholders using the appropriate language and style, to meet the needs of the audience concerned.
Back to Duty
S14: Research, investigate, and evaluate innovative technologies or approaches in the development of a digital and technology solution.
Back to Duty
S15: Apply relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to a digital and technology solution.
Back to Duty
S16: Identify and define software engineering problems that are non-routine and incompletely specified.
Back to Duty
S17: Provide recommendations as to the most appropriate software engineering solution.
Back to Duty
S18: Use appropriate analysis methods, approaches and techniques in software engineering projects to deliver an outcome that meets requirements.
Back to Duty
S19: Implement software engineering projects using appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques.
Back to Duty
S20: Respond to changing priorities and problems arising within software engineering projects by making revised recommendations, and adapting plans as necessary, to fit the scenario being investigated.
Back to Duty
S21: Determine, refine, adapt and use appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques to evaluate software engineering project outcomes.
Back to Duty
S22: Evaluate learning points arising from software engineering work undertaken on a project including use of methods, analysis undertaken, selection of approach and the outcome achieved, in order to identify both lessons learnt and recommendations for improvements to future projects.
Back to Duty
S23: Extend and update software development knowledge with evidence from professional and academic sources by undertaking appropriate research to inform best practice and lead improvements in the organisation.
Back to Duty
S24: Analyse client needs and determine how to advise them strategically through improved business processes, new ideas, or technology solutions.
Back to Duty
S25: Effectively communicate value add to the client through a variety of media. For example, presentations, written reports, Storytelling in a professional setting through performing socio-technical process improvements in a range of environments.
Back to Duty
S26: Make evidence based recommendations taking into account risks, costs, and benefits.
Back to Duty
S27: Participate in walk-throughs for Information Technologies, to identify, document and evaluate key risks within a client’s organisation.
Back to Duty
S28: Perform stakeholder analysis to identify, determine and deepen understanding of system requirements and develop client relationships.
Back to Duty
S29: Effect change within an organisation through evaluation of a new system, process or initiative.
Back to Duty
S30: Ensure legal and ethical requirements are accommodated in the development of digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
S31: Evaluate the success of new systems, processes, or initiatives.
Back to Duty
S32: Use requirements elicitation, analysis and documentation to produce an acceptable solution for business problems or further opportunities.
Back to Duty
S33: Conduct Process Analysis, Definition, Mapping and Modelling within a business situation without supervision.
Back to Duty
S34: Produce Use Cases which are of value to all stakeholders of a system.
Back to Duty
S35: Use tools and benchmarking to support modelling and requirements gathering and recommend approaches to team members as required.
Back to Duty
S36: Produce a business case to scope a proposed project including business benefits and recommendations.
Back to Duty
S37: Use products of analysis in the design and development of a system.
Back to Duty
S38: Evaluate the impacts of model selection and how they inter-relate with each other when generating business analytics.
Back to Duty
S39: Recommend and use appropriate software tools to implement Business Analysis tasks and outcomes.
Back to Duty
S40: Discover, identify and analyse security threats, attack techniques and vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation and security controls.
Back to Duty
S41: Undertake security risk assessments for complex systems without direct supervision and propose a remediation strategy relevant to the context of the organisation.
Back to Duty
S42: Recommend improvements to the cyber security approaches of an organisation based on research into future potential cyber threats and considering threat trends.
Back to Duty
S43: Manage cyber security risk.
Back to Duty
S44: Use appropriate cyber security technology, tools and techniques in relation to the risks identified.
Back to Duty
S45: Lead cyber security awareness campaigns and evaluate their effectiveness.
Back to Duty
S46: Analyse cyber security requirements against other design requirements for systems or products, identify conflicting requirements and recommend appropriate solutions with clear explanation of costs and benefits.
Back to Duty
S47: Lead the design and build of systems in accordance with a security case to address organisational challenges.
Back to Duty
S48: Define Data Requirements and perform Data Collection, Data Processing and Data Cleansing.
Back to Duty
S49: Apply different types of Data Analysis, as appropriate, to drive improvements for specific business problems.
Back to Duty
S50: Find, present, communicate and disseminate data analysis outputs effectively and with high impact through creative storytelling, tailoring the message for the audience. Visualise data to tell compelling and actionable narratives by using the best medium for each audience, such as charts, graphs and dashboards.
Back to Duty
S51: Identify barriers to effective analysis encountered both by analysts and their stakeholders within data analysis projects.
Back to Duty
S52: Apply a range of techniques for analysing quantitative data such as data mining, time series forecasting, algorithms, statistics and modelling techniques to identify and predict trends and patterns in data.
Back to Duty
S53: Apply exploratory or confirmatory approaches to analysing data. Validate and and test stability of the results.
Back to Duty
S54: Extract data from a range of sources. For example, databases, web services, open data.
Back to Duty
S55: Analyse in detail large data sets, using a range of industry standard tools and data analysis methods.
Back to Duty
S56: Identify and collate stakeholder needs in relation to computer network requirements, plans and designs.
Back to Duty
S57: Plan, design, document, and develop the relevant elements of a computer network within an organisation or between organisations, taking into account customer requirements (performance, scale), constraints (budget, equipment availability), and define policies for their use.
Back to Duty
S58: Monitor performance and ensure networks are configured correctly and perform as expected by designers or architects. Undertake capacity management and audit of IP addressing and hosted devices.
Back to Duty
S59: Investigate, troubleshoot and resolve data network faults in local and wide area environments, using information from multiple sources, Physically or Remotely by console connection. Recommend and implement short term fixes to restore service and, or, quality of experience and recommend longer term changes to prevent recurrence or reduce impact of future occurrences.
Back to Duty
S60: Implement computer networks from a design including testing and validation. This includes populating variables in configurations, for example, IP addresses and subsequent application of configuration to equipment such as routers, switches, firewalls.
Back to Duty
S61: Secure network systems by establishing and enforcing policies, and defining and monitoring access. Support and administer firewall environments in line with IT security policy.
Back to Duty
S62: Research and evaluate emerging network technologies and assess relevance to current network requirements. Provide an objective opinion on how new features and technologies may be incorporated as required by the organisation.
Back to Duty
S63: Investigate security concerns or attacks. For example, Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS), port scanning, assessing key metrics and indicators, evidencing the chosen steps to mitigate.
Back to Duty
B1: Has a strong work ethic and commitment in order to meet the standards required.
Back to Duty
B2: Reliable, objective and capable of both independent and team working.
Back to Duty
B3: Acts with integrity with respect to ethical, legal and regulatory requirements ensuring the protection of personal data, safety and security.
Back to Duty
B4: Commits to continuous professional development; maintaining their knowledge and skills in relation to developments in digital and technology solutions that influence their work.
Back to Duty
B5: Interacts professionally with people from technical and non-technical backgrounds. Presents data and conclusions in an evidently truthful, concise and appropriate manner.
Back to Duty
B6: Participates in and shares best practice in their organisation, and the wider community for aspects relevant to digital and technology solutions.
Back to Duty
B7: Maintains awareness of trends and innovations in the subject area, utilising a range of academic literature, online sources, community interaction, conference attendance and other methods which can deliver business value.
Back to Duty
B8: Champions diversity and inclusion in their work ensuring that digital technology solutions are accessible.
Back to Duty
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.
Level: 6 (integrated degree)
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the digital and technology solutions professional degree-apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Digital and technology solutions professional apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A degree-apprenticeship awards a degree with the achievement of the apprenticeship. The degree learning outcomes must be aligned with the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) in the apprenticeship. The degree must be completed, passed and awarded alongside the digital and technology solutions professional degree-apprenticeship.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
A degree-apprenticeship must be delivered by a Higher Education Provider (HEP) that is on both the register of apprenticeship training providers (RoATP) and the register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO). The apprentice's employer must select an HEP who is on both registers.
If the HEP is using a credit framework, the EPA must contribute to the total credit value, and must be delivered in line with this EPA plan. However, the number of credits devoted to EPA may vary across HEP’s. The recommended EPA contribution is 30 credits of the total credit value.
A full-time digital and technology solutions professional apprentice typically spends 48 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway). 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.
This EPA should then be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 48 months.
Occupational competence is outlined by the EPA grade descriptors and determined, when assessed in line with this EPA plan, by an independent assessor who is an occupational expert and confirms the overall EPA grade.
Assessment method 1 - project report with presentation, questions and answers:
Assessment method 2 - professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall degree-apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the degree-apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 48 months
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The apprentice must:
The qualification required is: Digital and Technology Solutions Professional
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the degree-apprenticeship. The apprentice must:
For the project report with presentation, questions and answers, the apprentice must submit a Project title and summary. To ensure the project allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade, the EPAO should sign-off the project’s title and scope at the gateway to confirm it is suitable.
For the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
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End-point assessment - typically 3 months
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The grades available for each assessment method are below
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers:
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio:
Overall EPA and degree-apprenticeship can be graded:
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Professional recognition
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This degree-apprenticeship aligns with:
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Re-sits and re-takes
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The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and the EPA should start as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the degree-apprenticeship. 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:
The apprentice will scope out and provide a summary of what the project will cover and will submit this to the EPAO at the gateway. This should demonstrate that the work-based project report will provide sufficient opportunity for the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this method. The summary is not formally assessed and will typically be no longer than 500 words.
The project proposal needs to include a summary of the project plan, research requirements, an overview of how the project will be planned to include timeframes and the date the work-based project report must be submitted to the independent assessor taking into account the deadlines stipulated within this end-point assessment plan. The EPAO will sign off the project summary within 2 weeks of the Gateway to ensure sufficient scope to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
• apprentices must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship
• it must contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by the professional discussion
• the portfolio of evidence will typically contain 6 discrete pieces of evidence
• evidence must be mapped against the KSBs
• evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested
• evidence sources may include:
o workplace documentation/records, for example workplace policies/procedures, records
o witness statements
o assignments
o annotated photographs
o video clips (maximum total duration 10 minutes); the apprentice must be in view and identifiable
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources are possible.
• Although it is expected that apprentices at degree level will be reflective in their practice, it should be noted that the EPA assesses individuals on evidence of output against the KSBs, not 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 must be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence must contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this
• the portfolio of evidence must be submitted to the EPAO at the gateway
The portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed. It underpins the professional discussion and therefore should not be marked by the EPAO. EPAOs should review the portfolio of evidence in preparation for the professional discussion but are not required to provide feedback after this review of the portfolio.
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
A project involves the apprentice completing a significant and defined piece of work that has a real business application and benefit.
NB - The project may be undertaken pre-gateway, however, the Project Report must be completed after the apprentice has gone through the gateway.
A Digital and Technology Solutions Project may take years and not all projects experience a full life cycle, sometimes being abandoned for cost reasons or change of business strategy. A Digital Technology Solutions Professional may be one of a multidisciplined team and therefore may not control the timescale of the project. Therefore a project (or part project) cannot be designed or delayed to fit into the EPA timescale nor the specification of the EPAO as results can range from successful new recommendations on process, product or decommission. This cannot be predicted.
The project must give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The project must meet the needs of the employer’s business and be relevant to the apprentice’s occupation and apprenticeship. The EPAO must confirm that it provides the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade. The EPAO must refer to the grading descriptors to ensure that projects are pitched appropriately.
This assessment method has 2 components:
Project with report
This assessment method is being used because a project is a fundamental activity within the sectors in which a DTSP works. Every specialism within the DTSP apprenticeship works within a project-based approach and so this is a valid way of measuring competence.
The project may be undertaken pre-gateway, however, the Project Report must be completed after the apprentice has gone through the gateway.
A Digital and Technology Solutions Project may take years and not all projects experience a full life cycle, sometimes being abandoned for cost reasons or change of business strategy. A Digital Technology Solutions Professional may be one of a multidisciplined team and therefore may not control the timescale of the project. Therefore a project (or part project) cannot be designed or delayed to fit into the EPA timescale nor the specification of the EPAO as results can range from successful new recommendations on process, product or decommission. This cannot be predicted.
The project report with presentation, questions and answers 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’s project can be based on any of the following:
To ensure the project allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade, the EPAO should sign-off the project’s title and scope at the gateway to confirm it is suitable.
The project output must be in the form of a report.
The apprentice must start the project report after the gateway. They must complete and submit the to the EPAO by the end of weekreport 12 of the EPA period. The employer should ensure the apprentice has the time and resources, within this period, to plan and complete their project. The apprentice must complete their project and the production of its components unaided.
The apprentice may work as part of a team to complete the project which could include technical internal or external support. However, the project report must be the apprentice’s own work and reflective of their own role and contribution. The apprentice and their employer must confirm that the project report is the apprentice’s own work when it is submitted.
The report must include at least:
· an introduction
· the scope of the project (including key performance indicators and stakeholder engagement)
· how the outcomes would be achieved
· a project plan
· research and findings
· project outcomes
· recommendations and conclusions.
The project report has a word count of 6000 words. A tolerance of 10% above or below the word count is allowed at the apprentice’s discretion. Appendices, references and diagrams are not included in this total. The project report must map, in an appendix, how it evidences the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
In the presentation with questions the apprentice delivers a presentation to an independent assessor on a set subject. The independent assessor must ask questions following the presentation. This gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice must prepare and submit their presentation speaker notes and supporting materials presentation with questions and answers. The independent assessor must ask questions after the presentation. The presentations must include:
The apprentice must prepare and submit their presentation speaker notes and supporting materials to the EPAO at the same time as the report by the end of week 12 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:
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the project output(s) and presentation speaker notes and supporting materials, to allow them to prepare questions.
The EPAO must give the apprentices at least 14 days notice of the presentation with questions.
The apprentice must deliver their presentation to the independent assessor on a one-to-one basis.
The independent assessor must ask questions after the presentation.
The purpose of the questions is to explore and verify the apprentice’s understanding of their project area in relation to the apprenticeship standard.
The presentation and questions must last 60 minutes. This will typically include a presentation of 30 minutes and questioning lasting 30 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the total 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 4 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 independent assessor must use the full time available for questioning. The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The project components must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The project components must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The presentation with questions must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s or employer’s premises).
The presentation with questions should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The presentation with questioning 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 EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting 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 report with presentation, questions and answers:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation, training, and moderation.
In the professional discussion, an independent assessor and apprentice have a formal two-way conversation. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
The professional discussion must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the professional discussion.
The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to explore the following topics and themes:
Theme A: Underlying Principles
Theme B: Technical Solutions
Theme C: Innovation & Response
Theme D: Legal, Ethics & Landscape
The EPAO must give an apprentice 14 days notice of the professional discussion.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the professional discussion.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The professional discussion must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor 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.
The independent assessor must ask at least 4 questions. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required. The independent assessor must use the questions from their EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
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.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting 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 apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation, training, and moderation.
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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(Core) The Organisational Context
K1 K2 |
Identifies the role digital technology solutions play in gaining a competitive advantage by adapting and exploiting them (K1) Explains the principles of strategic decision making concerning the acquisition or development of digital and technology solutions. (K2)
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N/A |
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(Core) Project Requirements
S3 B3 |
Analyses relevant evidence to produce a proposal for a digital and technology based project in line with legal, ethical and regulatory requirements whilst ensuring the protection of personal data, safety and security (S3,B3) |
N/A |
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(Core) Project Planning and Resources
K3 K4 K15 S2 S14 |
Produces a project plan which estimates risks and opportunities and determines mitigation strategies.' (K3, S2) Evaluates appropriate techniques and approaches that are used in creating a business case (K4) The project applies techniques to estimate cost and time resource constraints.' (K15) Researches information on innovative technologies/approaches and investigates and evaluates them in the development of a digital and technology solution. (S14)
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N/A |
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(Core) Solution Proposal
S1 |
Analyses the business problem behind the project proposal to identify the role of digital and technology solutions. (S1) |
Justifies their choice of digital and technology solutions for specific roles in the project proposal. (S1) |
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(Core) Project Delivery
K5 S5 S6 |
Carries out the identified solution proposal utilising a range of digital tools and standard approaches. (K5, S5) Manages the project delivery to achieve digital and technology solutions. (S6) |
Justifies the selection and use of standard processes and methods. (K5, S5) |
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(Core) Project Evaluation
K17 K18 S13 |
Justifies their methods of research and evaluation which determined the selection of digital and technology solutions identified for the project. (K18) Presents an overview of the project to appropriate stakeholders using appropriate language and style. (K17, S13, B5)
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Compares and contrasts their chosen digital technology solution to alternative approaches within their research outcomes. (K18,S13)
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(Software Engineer) Technical Solutions
K25 K26 K27 |
Analyses the factors affecting product quality and the approaches controlling them throughout the project development process. (K25/SEK5). Selects and applies software tools appropriate to the Software Engineering project solution. (K26/SEK6) Outlines approaches to the interpretation and use of artefacts. (K27/SEK7) |
Evaluates the impact of approaches used to control product quality throughout the project development process. (K25/SEK5) |
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(Software Engineer) Innovation and Response
S16 S17 S18 S19 S22 |
Identifies and defines a non-routine, unspecified software engineering problem. (S16/SES1) Recommends a software engineering solution that is appropriate for the project brief. (S17/SES2) Selects and applies analysis methods, approaches and techniques in software engineering projects to deliver an outcome that meets requirements. (S18/SES3) Demonstrates how they implement software engineering projects using appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques. (S19/SES4) Evaluates their selection of approach, methodology, analysis and outcomes to identify both lessons learned and recommendations for improvements to future projects software engineering projects. (S22/SES7)
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Evaluates their choice of software engineering solution for the project brief. (S17/SES2) Justifies their choice of analysis methods approaches and techniques. (S18/SE3) Compares and contrasts the implementation of their software engineering solution with alternative approaches. (S22/SES7)
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(IT Consultant) Underlying Principles
K29 K32 |
Evaluates the principles of different consulting methodologies. (K29/ITK1) Summarises the barriers to solving problems or maximizing opportunities. (K32/ITK4)
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N/A |
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(IT Consultant) Innovation and Response
K33 S24 S26 S28 |
Analyses client needs to advise a strategic approach to improve business processes, provide new ideas and/or technology solutions. (S24/ITS1) Demonstrates presenting recommendations to stakeholders and influencing action, considering risks, costs and benefits. (K33/ITK5, S26/ITS3) Demonstrates how they perform stakeholder analysis to identify, determine and deepen understanding of system requirements and develop client relationships. (S28, ITS5)
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Critically evaluates the impact of methods used to present recommendations to stakeholders. (K33/ITK5, S26/ITS3) |
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(IT Consultant) Ethics and Landscape
S30 |
Evaluates how they ensure legal and ethical requirements are accommodated in the development of digital and technology solutions. (S30/ITS7) |
N/A |
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(IT Consultant) Technical Solutions
S31 |
Demonstrates how they evaluate the success of a new system, process, or initiative. (S31, ITS8) |
N/A |
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(Business Analyst) Technical Solutions
S32 S34 |
Compare and contrast how they use requirements elicitation, analysis and documentation to produce an acceptable solution for business problems or further opportunities. (K37/BAK1,S32/BAS1) Evaluate the impact of Use Cases on all stakeholders of a system. (S33/BAS3) |
N/A |
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(Business Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K44 S36 S38 |
Demonstrate how they produce a business case to scope a proposed project including business benefits and recommendations. (S36/BAS5) Evaluates the impact of model selection and how they inter-relate with each other when generating business analytics in line with the project brief. (S38/BAS7) Describes Solution Evaluation, including how to assess the performance of and value delivered by a solution and to recommend improvements on increasing value. (K40/BAK4) Outlines the approaches used for change control and requirements management within the project. (K44/BAK8)
|
N/A |
|
(Business Analyst) Innovation and Response
K40 S39 |
Applies the principles of Solution Evaluation to assess performance of and value delivered in the project and outlines recommendations on how to increase value in the future. (K40/BAK4) Demonstrates how they recommend and apply software tools to implement Business Analysis tasks and outcomes in the project brief. (S39/BAS8)
|
Critically analyses their approach to Solution Evaluation has had on project outcomes. (K40/BAK4) Critically evaluates the use of appropriate software tools to implement Business Analysis tasks and outcomes. (S39/BAS8)
|
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Underlying Principles
K45 K51 |
Explains the principles of cyber security tools and techniques as related to the project. (K45/CSK1) Relates the principles of security architectures and methodologies to the project. (K51/CSK7)
|
N/A |
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Innovation and Response
K52 S42 S46 S47 |
Describes approaches to deployment of cyber security technology components in digital systems to provide security functionality. (K52/CSK8) Demonstrate how they recommend improvements to the cyber security approaches of an organisation based on research into future potential cyber threats and considering threat trends in the project. (S42/CSS3) Demonstrate how they analyse cyber security requirements in the project against other design requirements for systems or products and identify conflicting requirements and recommend appropriate solutions with clear explanation of costs/benefits. (S46/CSS7) Demonstrate how they lead the design and build of systems in accordance with a security case to address organisational challenges in the project. (S47/CSS8)
|
Justifies their choice of approach to deployment of cyber security technology components in digital systems to provide security functionality within the project. (K52/CSK8) |
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Technical Solutions
S40 S44 |
Demonstrate how they discover, identify and analyse security threats, attack techniques and vulnerabilities using cyber security architectures, methodologies, tools and techniques to recommend mitigation and security controls in the project. (S40/CSS1) Selects and applies cyber security tools and techniques in relation to the risks identified in the context of the project. (K41/CSK1, S44/CSS5) |
Critically evaluates how they discover, identify and analyse security threats, attack techniques and vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation and security controls in the project (S40/CSS1) |
|
(Data Analyst) Underlying Principles
K54 K56 K58 |
Critically analyses data sets, using a range of industry standard tools and data analysis methods. (K54/DAK2) Outlines sources of data used for the project. (K56/DAK4) Describes how Data Analytics operates within the context of data governance, data security, and communications in respect of the project. (K58/DAK6)
|
Summarises the outcomes of analysing, interpreting and evaluating complex information from diverse datasets. (K54/DAK2) Critically evaluates sources of data for the project. (K56/DAK4) |
|
(Data Analyst) Innovation and Response
S50 S52 S53 S54 S55 |
Visualises data to tell compelling and actionable narratives by using the best medium for each audience. (S50/DAS3) Demonstrates how they have applied a range of techniques for analysing quantitative data such as data mining, time series forecasting, algorithms, statistics and modelling techniques to identify and predict trends and patterns in data. (S52/DAS5) Demonstrates how they have applied exploratory or confirmatory approaches to analysing data. and how they have validated and tested stability of the results. (S53/DAS6) Demonstrates how they extract data from a range of sources. (S54/DAS7) Demonstrates how they analyse, in detail large data sets, using appropriate industry standard tools and data analysis methods. (S55/DAS8)
|
Evaluates their approach to finding, presenting, communicating and disseminating data analysis outputs effectively and with high impact through creative storytelling, tailoring the message for the audience. Compares and contrasts alternative approaches to visualise data to tell compelling and actionable narratives by using the best medium for each audience. (S50/DAS3) Evaluates how they apply a wide range of techniques for analysing quantitative data such as data mining, time series forecasting, algorithms, statistics and modelling techniques to identify and predict trends and patterns in data. (S52/DAS5) Evaluates how they apply exploratory or confirmatory approaches to analysing data and evaluates their approach to in depth validation and testing stability of the results. (S53/DAS6) Evaluates their approach to in depth extraction of data from a range of sources leading making conclusions from the data for decision-making purposes for an internal or external stakeholder.(S54/DAS7) Evaluates their approach to analysing in detail large data sets, using a range of industry standard tools and data analysis methods and suggests how this allows internal or external stakeholders to draw conclusions from the data for decision-making purposes. (S55/DAS8)
|
|
(Network Engineer) Underlying Principles
K61 K62 K66 |
Explain the role of physical and/or virtual network component and their impact within a project. (K61/NEK1) Explain network fundamentals concepts (protocols, features etc.) and the relationships between them that are relevant to a specific project undertaken. (K62/NEK2) Describe key security concepts and security programme elements. (K66/NEK6)
|
N/A |
|
(Network Engineer) Innovation and Response
S56 S57 S60 S62 |
Demonstrate how they identify and collate stakeholder network needs. (S56/NES1) Demonstrate how they plan, design, document and develop network solutions taking into consideration stakeholder requirements and define appropriate operational policies. (S57/NES2) Demonstrate how they implement, test and validate networks from a design, explaining the chosen design and implementation. (S60/NES5) Demonstrate how they research and evaluate emerging network technologies, utilising appropriate sources of evidence, to support an objective recommendation. (S62/NES7)
|
Critically evaluate how they plan, design, document and develop network solutions taking into consideration stakeholder requirements and define appropriate operational policies. (S57/NES2) Critically evaluate how they research and evaluate emerging network technologies, utilising appropriate sources of evidence, to support an objective recommendation. (S62/NES7)
|
|
(Network Engineer) Technical Solutions
S63 |
Demonstrate how security concerns or attacks are investigated and mitigated. (S63/NES8) |
N/A |
Fail - does not meet pass criteria
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
|
|---|---|---|
|
(Core) The Organisational Context
K7 |
Reviews the roles, functions and activities relevant to technology solutions within an organisation. (K7) |
N/A |
|
(Core) Core Technical Concepts
K6 K11 K12 K14 K16 |
Critically evaluates the nature and scope of common vulnerabilities in digital and technology solutions (K11) Explains core technical concepts for digital and technology solutions, including: - The approaches and techniques used throughout the digital and technology solution lifecycle and their applicability to an organisation’s standards and pre-existing tools.(K6) - Data gathering, data management, and data analysis.(K12, K14) - Computer networking concepts.(K16)
|
N/A |
|
(Core) Applied Technical Solutions
K13 S4 S9 S10 S11 S12 |
Demonstrates the use of core technical concepts for digital and technology solutions, including: - Initiate, design, code, test and debug a software component for a digital and technology solution. (S4) - Security and resilience techniques. (S9) - Initiates, designs, implements and debugs a data product for a digital and technology solution. (S10) - Plans, designs and manages simple computer networks. (S12) - Applies the principles of data analysis for digital and technology solutions. (K13, S11)
|
N/A
|
|
(Core) Leading and Working Together
K8 K9 K10 S7 S8 B4 B6 B7 |
Explains how teams work effectively to produce a digital and technology solution applying relevant organisational theories using up to date awareness of trends and innovations. (K8, S7, B4,B6,B7) Describes the concepts and principles of leadership and management as they relate to their roleand how they apply them. (K9, K10,S8)
|
N/A
|
|
(Core) Social Infrastructure - Legal, Ethical and Sustainability
K19 K20 S15 B1 B2 B8 |
Applies relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to digital and technology solutions considering both technical and non-technical audiences and in line with organisational guidelines. (K19, S15, B1, B2, B5) Explains sustainable development approaches within digital technologies as they relate to their role including diversity and inclusion. (K20, B8)
|
Justifies the application of relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to digital and technology solutions. (K19, S15) Evaluates the impact of sustainable digital technology practices of their organisation. (K20)
|
|
(Software Engineer) Underlying Principles
K21 K22 K23 |
Describes scenarios covering all stages of a development lifecycle, identifying techniques and methods are applied in each case. (K21/SEK1) Explains the principles of a range of development techniques, for each stage of the software development cycle that produce artefacts and the contexts in which they can be applied. (K22/SEK2) Explains the principles of a range of development methods and approaches and the contexts in which they can be applied. (K23/ SEK3)
|
N/A |
|
(Software Engineer) Technical Solutions
K24 K28 |
Describes. how to interpret and implement a design, compliant with functional, non-functional and security requirements. K24/SEK4 Describes how tools that support teamwork can be used effectively. K28/SEK8
|
N/A
|
|
(Software Engineer) Innovation and Response
S20 S21 |
Describes how they respond to changing priorities and problems arising within software engineering projects by making revised recommendations, and adapting plans as necessary, to fit the scenario being investigated. (S20/SES5) Explains how they determine, refine, adapt and use appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques to evaluate software engineering project outcomes. (S21/SES6)
|
Demonstrates how their actions have influenced the creation of appropriate plans within teams and contributed to project outcomes. (S20/SES5)
Compares and contrasts how they respond to changing priorities and problems arising within software engineering projects by making revised recommendations, and adapting plans as necessary, to fit the scenario being investigated. (S20/SES5)
|
|
(Software Engineer) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
S23 |
Describes how they extend and update software development knowledge with evidence from professional and academic sources by undertaking appropriate research to inform best practice and lead improvements in the organisation. (S23/SES8)
|
N/A
|
|
(IT Consultant) Underlying Principles
K30 K31 K34 K35 K36 |
Explains how consulting interfaces with project management, business analysis and business management. (K30/ITK2) Explains the principles of change management within organisations. (K31/ITK3) Compares and contrasts approaches to analytical and critical thinking to define business problems objectively and create value for the client. (K32/ITK6) Describes questioning strategies and active listening to ensure all requirements are gathered. (K35/ITK7) Explains the ethical and legal requirements in client/provider relationships. (K36/ITK8)
|
N/A |
|
(IT Consultant) Innovation and Response
S25 S27 |
Evaluates how they effectively communicate value add to the client through a variety of media in a professional setting through performing socio-technical process improvements in a range of environments. (S25/ITS2) Explain how they participate in walk-throughs for IT, to identify, document and evaluate key risks within a client’s organisation. (S27/ITS4)
|
Compares and contrasts how they effectively communicate value add to the client through a variety of media in a professional setting through performing socio-technical process improvements in a range of environments. (S25/ITS2) Critically evaluates how they participate in walk-throughs for IT, to identify, document and evaluate key risks within a client’s organisation. (S27/ITS4)
|
|
(IT Consultant) Technical Solutions
S29 |
Evaluates how they effect change within an organisation through evaluation of a new system, process or initiative. (S29/ITS6) |
N/A |
|
(Business Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K41 K42 S33 |
Explains legislation and industry standards relevant to the organisation and sector. (K41/BAK5) Describes the purpose and value of quality assurance techniques. (K42/BAK6) Explains how they conduct Process Analysis, Definition, Mapping and Modelling within a business situation without supervision. (S33/BAS2)
|
N/A |
|
(Business Analyst) Technical Solutions
K38 K43 S37 |
Evaluate approaches to Requirements Life Cycle Management including how to manage and maintain requirements and design information from inception to retirement of a product. (K38/BAK2) Evaluate a range of Business Analysis investigative techniques. (K43/BAK7) Explains how they use products of analysis in the design and development of a system. (S37/BAS6)
|
N/A |
|
(Business Analyst) Innovation and Response
K39 S35 |
Explains how they use tools and benchmarking to support modelling and requirements gathering and recommend approaches to team members as required. (S35/BAS4) Explains the principles of Strategy Analysis, including how to identify the business need, address that need, and align the change strategy within the organisation. (K39/BAK3)
|
Critically evaluates how they use tools and benchmarking to support modelling and requirements gathering and recommend approaches to team members as required. (S35/BAS4) |
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K46 K48 K50 S45 |
Explains the principles of quantitative and qualitative risk management theory including the role of risk stakeholders. (K46/CSK2) Describes the key legislative frameworks and the regulatory landscape for cyber security. (K48/CSK4) Explains the ethical principles and codes of good practice of at least one significant cyber security professional body and the ethical responsibilities of a cyber security professional. (K50/CSK6) Describes how they lead cyber security awareness campaigns and evaluate their effectiveness.(S45/CSS6)
|
N/A |
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Technical Solutions
K47 K49 S41 S43 |
Evaluates concepts and approaches to cyber security assurance. (K47/CSK3) Evaluates approaches to incident response and management including escalation and investigation of cyber security breaches and their root cause. (K49/CSK5) Explains how they undertake security risk assessments for complex systems without direct supervision and propose a remediation strategy relevant to the context of the organisation. (S41/CSS2) Explains how they manage cyber security risk. (S43/CSS4)
|
Critically evaluates how they undertake security risk assessments for complex systems without direct supervision and propose a remediation strategy relevant to the context of the organisation. (S41/CSS2) Critically evaluates how they manage cyber security risk. (S43/CSS4)
|
|
(Data Analyst) Underlying Principles
K53 K55 K57 |
Describes the barriers that exist to effective data analysis between analysts and their stakeholders and how to avoid or resolve these. (K53/DAK1) Explains data formats, structures, architectures and data delivery methods including “unstructured” data. (K55/DAK3) Explains approaches to data processing and storage, database systems, data warehousing and online analytical processing, data-driven decision making and the good use of evidence and analytics in making choices and decisions. (K57/DAK5)
|
N/A |
|
(Data Analyst) Technical Solutions
K59 |
Describes how Data Analytics can be applied to improve an organisation’s processes, operations and outputs. (K59/DAK7) |
Evaluates how data analytics can be applied to improve an organisation’s processes, operations and outputs. (K59/DAK7) |
|
(Data Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K60 |
Describes how data and analysis may exhibit biases and prejudice. Describes how ethics and compliance affect Data Analytics work, and the impact of international regulations. (K60/DAK8) |
N/A |
|
(Data Analyst) Innovation and Response
S48 S49 S51 |
Describes how they define Data Requirements and perform Data Collection, Data Processing and Data Cleansing. (S48/DAS1) Describes how they apply different types of Data Analysis, as appropriate, to drive improvements for specific business problems. (S49/DAS2) Describes how they have encountered barriers to effective analysis both by analysts and their stakeholders within data analysis projects. (S51/DAS4)
|
Evaluates how they define Data Requirements and perform Data Collection, Data Processing and Data Cleansing. (S48/DAS1) Evaluates how they apply different types of Data Analysis, as appropriate, to drive improvements for specific business problems. (S49/DAS2) Evaluates how they identify barriers to effective analysis encountered both by analysts and their stakeholders within data analysis projects. (S51/DAS4)
|
|
(Network Engineer) Technical Solutions
K63 K67 K68 S58 S61 |
Explains the benefits and risks of cloud computing and the common integration deployments (private, public, hybrid) including the benefits and risks of virtualisation as a concept; key features of virtualisation and current cloud platforms available. (K63/NEK3) Explains Software Defined Networking and Network Function Virtualisation Core Principles. (K67/NEK7) Describe the key elements of mobile networks including some specific key functions and communication concepts. (K68/NEK8) Explains how they undertake network performance monitoring, including capacity management and auditing of IP addressing. (S58/NES3) Explains how they secure network systems, apply security policies, access and firewalls. (S61/NES6)
|
Critically provide a comparative analysis between different cloud models stating their risks, strengths and weaknesses, considering their organisational needs. (K63/NEK3) Critically evaluates how they undertake network performance monitoring, including capacity management and auditing of IP addressing. (S58/NES3) |
|
(Network Engineer) Underlying Principles
K64 K65 |
Describe key factors that affect network performance and provide some mitigation strategies to increase quality of service. (K64/NEK4) Explains the principles of failure modes in protocols and how they could be addressed. (K65/NEK5)
|
N/A |
|
(Network Engineer) Innovation and Response
S59 |
Explain approaches for investigating, troubleshooting and resolving network faults. (S59/NES4) |
Compare and contrast approaches for investigating, troubleshooting and resolving network faults. (S59/NES4) |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the project report with presentation, questions and answers and professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA merit, the apprentice must achieve a pass in either assessment method and a distinction in the remaining method. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, the apprentice must achieve a distinction in both assessment methods.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Project Report with presentation, questions and answers | Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does.
The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.
If the apprentice fails the project assessment method, they must amend the project output in line with the independent assessor’s feedback. The apprentice will be given 4 weeks to rework and submit the amended report.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of merit for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO (HEP) |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider (HEP) |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
|
The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that EPAOs must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable end-point assessment decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to all requirements within the roles and responsibilities table and:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This degree-apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1: Core.
How organisations adapt and exploit digital technology solutions to gain a competitive advantage. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K2: Core.
The principles of strategic decision making concerning the acquisition or development of digital and technology solutions. For example business architecture approaches such as capability models and target operating models. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K3: Core.
Principles of estimating the risks and opportunities of digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K4: Core.
Techniques and approaches involved in creating a business case for new digital and technology solutions. For example journey, product and capability mapping and value chains. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K5: Core.
A range of digital technology solution development techniques and tools. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K6: Core.
The approaches and techniques used throughout the digital and technology solution lifecycle and their applicability to an organisation’s standards and pre-existing tools. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K7: Core.
The roles, functions and activities within digital technology solutions within an organisation. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K8: Core.
How teams work effectively to produce digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K9: Core.
The concepts and principles of leadership. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K10: Core.
Management techniques and theories. For example, effective decision making, delegation and planning methods, time management and change management. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K11: Core.
The nature and scope of common vulnerabilities in digital and technology solutions. For example, the risks of unsecure coding and unprotected networks. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K12: Core.
The role of data management systems within Digital and Technology Solutions. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K13: Core.
Principles of data analysis for digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K14: Core.
A range of quantitative and qualitative data gathering methods and how to appraise and select the appropriate method. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K15: Core.
Principles of estimating cost, and time resource constraints within digital and technology solutions activities. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K16: Core.
Fundamental computer networking concepts in relation to digital and technology solutions. For example, structure, cloud architecture, components, quality of service. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K17: Core.
Reporting techniques, including how to synthesise information and present concisely, as appropriate to the target audience. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K18: Core.
Techniques of robust research and evaluation for the justification of digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K19: Core.
Relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to a digital and technology solution. For example, Diversity, Accessibility, Intellectual Property, Data Protection Acts, Codes of Practice, Regulatory and Compliance frameworks. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K20: Core.
Sustainable development approaches as applied to digital and technology solutions such as green computing. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K21: software engineering professional.
How to operate at all stages of the software development life cycle and how each stage is applied in a range of contexts. For example, requirements analysis, design, development, testing, implementation. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K22: software engineering professional.
Principles of a range of development techniques, for each stage of the software development cycle that produce artefacts and the contexts in which they can be applied. For example UML, unit testing, programming, debugging, frameworks, architectures. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K23: software engineering professional.
Principles of a range of development methods and approaches and the contexts in which they can be applied. For example Scrum, Extreme Programming, Waterfall, Prince2, TDD. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K24: software engineering professional.
How to interpret and implement a design, compliant with functional, non-functional and security requirements including principles and approaches to addressing legacy software development issues from a technical and socio-technical perspective. For example architectures, languages, operating systems, hardware, business change. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K25: software engineering professional.
The factors affecting product quality and approaches for how to control them throughout the development process. For example security, code quality, coding standards. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K26: software engineering professional.
How to select and apply a range of software tools used in Software Engineering. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K27: software engineering professional.
Approaches to the interpretation and use of artefacts. For example UML, unit tests, architecture. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K28: software engineering professional.
Approaches to effective team work and the range of software development tools supporting effective teamwork. For example, configuration management, version control and release management. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K29: IT consultant professional.
Principles of different consulting methodologies. For example issue-based, and hypothesis based. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K30: IT consultant professional.
How consulting interfaces with project management, business analysis and business management. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K31: IT consultant professional.
Principles of change management within organisations. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K32: IT consultant professional.
The barriers to solving digital and technology problems or maximising opportunities. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K33: IT consultant professional.
Approaches to presenting recommendations to stakeholders and influencing action. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K34: IT consultant professional.
Approaches to analytical and critical thinking to define business problems objectively and create value for the client. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K35: IT consultant professional.
Questioning strategies and active listening to ensure all requirements are gathered. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K36: IT consultant professional.
The ethical and legal requirements in client and provider relationships. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K37: business analyst professional.
Elicitation and Collaboration approaches, including how to prepare for and conduct elicitation activities and confirm the results. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K38: business analyst professional.
Approaches to Requirements Life Cycle Management including how to manage and maintain requirements and design information from inception to retirement of a product. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K39: business analyst professional.
Principles of Strategy Analysis, including how to identify the business need, address that need, and align the change strategy within the organisation. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K40: business analyst professional.
Solution Evaluation, including how to assess the performance of and value delivered by a solution and to recommend improvements on increasing values. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K41: business analyst professional.
Legislation and industry standards relevant to Business Analysis in the organisation and sector. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K42: business analyst professional.
The purpose and value of quality assurance techniques. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K43: business analyst professional.
A range of Business Analysis investigative techniques. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K44: IT consultant professional,business analyst professional.
Approaches to change control and requirements management. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K45: cyber security professional .
Principles of cyber security tools and techniques. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K46: cyber security professional .
Principles of quantitative and qualitative risk management theory including the role of risk stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K47: cyber security professional .
Concepts and approaches to cyber security assurance. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K48: cyber security professional .
Key legislative frameworks and the regulatory landscape for cyber security including Data Protection Act 2018 , Network Information System Directive 2018, Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, ISO 27001. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K49: cyber security professional .
Approaches to incident response and management including escalation and investigation of cyber security breaches and their root cause. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K50: cyber security professional .
Ethical principles and codes of good practice of at least one significant cyber security professional body and the ethical responsibilities of a cyber security professional. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K51: cyber security professional .
Principles of common security architectures and methodologies. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K52: cyber security professional .
Approaches to deployment of cyber security technology components in digital systems to provide security functionality. For example hardware and software to implement security controls. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K53: computing data analyst professional.
The barriers that exist to effective data analysis between analysts and their stakeholders and how to avoid or resolve these. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K54: computing data analyst professional.
How to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate complex information from diverse datasets. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K55: computing data analyst professional.
Data formats, structures, architectures and data delivery methods including “unstructured” data. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K56: computing data analyst professional.
Sources of data such as files, operational systems, databases, web services, open data, government data, news and social media. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K57: computing data analyst professional.
Approaches to data processing and storage, database systems, data warehousing and online analytical processing, data-driven decision making and the good use of evidence and analytics in making choices and decisions. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K58: computing data analyst professional.
How Data Analytics operates within the context of data governance, data security, and communications. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K59: computing data analyst professional.
How Data Analytics can be applied to improve an organisation’s processes, operations and outputs. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K60: computing data analyst professional.
How data and analysis may exhibit biases and prejudice. How ethics and compliance affect Data Analytics work, and the impact of international regulations. For example, General Data Protection Regulation, Data Protection Act 2018. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K61: network engineering professional.
The role and function of virtual or physical network components and functions and typical topologies and service architectures. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K62: network engineering professional.
The main network protocols in use, their purpose, features and relationship to each other. For example, Ethernet, IP (Internet Protocol), TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First). Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K63: network engineering professional.
The benefits and risks of cloud computing and the common integration deployments (private, public, hybrid). Including the benefits and risks of virtualisation as a concept; key features of virtualisation and current cloud platforms available. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K64: network engineering professional.
The main factors that affect network performance, and how to mitigate these on network performance by implementing changes to QoS. For example, Traffic Shaping, Policing, Queuing, Topology (physical and logical), and Network Policy (Traffic Analysis, DPI (Deep Packet Inspection). Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K65: network engineering professional.
Principles of failure modes in protocols. For example, why a protocol may ‘hang’ and the effect of data communication errors and approaches to addressing failures to optimise network performance. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K66: network engineering professional.
Key security concepts. For example threats, vulnerabilities, exploits, detection and mitigation techniques, and security program elements such as user awareness, physical access control, multi-layer defence models. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
K67: network engineering professional.
SDN (Software Defined Networking) and Network Function Virtualisation Core Principles. For example, Control Plane Separation, flexibility, overlay networks, disassociation of software and hardware layers. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
K68: network engineering professional.
Key elements of mobile networks. For example RAN (Radio Access Network), EPC (Evolved Packet Core), IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) including some specific key functions such as S/P/U-Gateways and the concepts in communicating over free-space media such as interference, ground bounce, encryption and in mobile endpoint platforms such as tracking user location and roaming. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1: Core.
Analyse a business problem to identify the role of digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S2: Core.
Identify risks, determine mitigation strategies and opportunities for improvement in a digital and technology solutions project. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S3: Core.
Analyse a business problem in order to specify an appropriate digital and technology solution. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S4: Core.
Initiate, design, code, test and debug a software component for a digital and technology solution. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S5: Core.
Apply relevant standard processes, methods, techniques and tools. For example, ISO Standards, Waterfall, Agile in a digital and technology solution project. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S6: Core.
Manage digital and technology solutions projects. For example, identifying and resolving deviations from specification, applying appropriate Project Management methodologies. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S7: Core.
Work effectively within teams, leading on appropriate digital technology solution activities. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S8: Core.
Apply relevant organisational theories. For example, change management principles, marketing approaches, strategic practice, and IT service management to a digital and technology solutions project. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S9: Core.
Apply relevant security and resilience techniques to a digital and technology solution. For example, risk assessments, mitigation strategies. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S10: Core.
Initiate, design, implement and debug a data product for a digital and technology solution. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S11: Core.
Determine and use appropriate data analysis techniques. For example, Text, Statistical, Diagnostic or Predictive Analysis to assess a digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S12: Core.
Plan, design and manage simple computer networks with an overall focus on the services and capabilities that network infrastructure solutions enable in an organisational context. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S13: Core.
Report effectively to colleagues and stakeholders using the appropriate language and style, to meet the needs of the audience concerned. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S14: Core.
Research, investigate, and evaluate innovative technologies or approaches in the development of a digital and technology solution. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S15: Core.
Apply relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to a digital and technology solution. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S16: software engineering professional.
Identify and define software engineering problems that are non-routine and incompletely specified. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S17: software engineering professional.
Provide recommendations as to the most appropriate software engineering solution. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S18: software engineering professional.
Use appropriate analysis methods, approaches and techniques in software engineering projects to deliver an outcome that meets requirements. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S19: software engineering professional.
Implement software engineering projects using appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S20: software engineering professional.
Respond to changing priorities and problems arising within software engineering projects by making revised recommendations, and adapting plans as necessary, to fit the scenario being investigated. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S21: software engineering professional.
Determine, refine, adapt and use appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques to evaluate software engineering project outcomes. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S22: software engineering professional.
Evaluate learning points arising from software engineering work undertaken on a project including use of methods, analysis undertaken, selection of approach and the outcome achieved, in order to identify both lessons learnt and recommendations for improvements to future projects. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S23: software engineering professional.
Extend and update software development knowledge with evidence from professional and academic sources by undertaking appropriate research to inform best practice and lead improvements in the organisation. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S24: IT consultant professional.
Analyse client needs and determine how to advise them strategically through improved business processes, new ideas, or technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S25: IT consultant professional.
Effectively communicate value add to the client through a variety of media. For example, presentations, written reports, Storytelling in a professional setting through performing socio-technical process improvements in a range of environments. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S26: IT consultant professional.
Make evidence based recommendations taking into account risks, costs, and benefits. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S27: IT consultant professional.
Participate in walk-throughs for Information Technologies, to identify, document and evaluate key risks within a client’s organisation. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S28: IT consultant professional.
Perform stakeholder analysis to identify, determine and deepen understanding of system requirements and develop client relationships. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S29: IT consultant professional.
Effect change within an organisation through evaluation of a new system, process or initiative. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S30: IT consultant professional.
Ensure legal and ethical requirements are accommodated in the development of digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S31: IT consultant professional.
Evaluate the success of new systems, processes, or initiatives. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S32: business analyst professional.
Use requirements elicitation, analysis and documentation to produce an acceptable solution for business problems or further opportunities. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S33: business analyst professional.
Conduct Process Analysis, Definition, Mapping and Modelling within a business situation without supervision. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S34: business analyst professional.
Produce Use Cases which are of value to all stakeholders of a system. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S35: business analyst professional.
Use tools and benchmarking to support modelling and requirements gathering and recommend approaches to team members as required. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S36: business analyst professional.
Produce a business case to scope a proposed project including business benefits and recommendations. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S37: business analyst professional.
Use products of analysis in the design and development of a system. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S38: business analyst professional.
Evaluate the impacts of model selection and how they inter-relate with each other when generating business analytics. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S39: business analyst professional.
Recommend and use appropriate software tools to implement Business Analysis tasks and outcomes. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S40: cyber security professional .
Discover, identify and analyse security threats, attack techniques and vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation and security controls. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S41: cyber security professional .
Undertake security risk assessments for complex systems without direct supervision and propose a remediation strategy relevant to the context of the organisation. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S42: cyber security professional .
Recommend improvements to the cyber security approaches of an organisation based on research into future potential cyber threats and considering threat trends. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S43: cyber security professional .
Manage cyber security risk. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S44: cyber security professional .
Use appropriate cyber security technology, tools and techniques in relation to the risks identified. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S45: cyber security professional .
Lead cyber security awareness campaigns and evaluate their effectiveness. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S46: cyber security professional .
Analyse cyber security requirements against other design requirements for systems or products, identify conflicting requirements and recommend appropriate solutions with clear explanation of costs and benefits. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S47: cyber security professional .
Lead the design and build of systems in accordance with a security case to address organisational challenges. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S48: computing data analyst professional.
Define Data Requirements and perform Data Collection, Data Processing and Data Cleansing. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S49: computing data analyst professional.
Apply different types of Data Analysis, as appropriate, to drive improvements for specific business problems. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S50: computing data analyst professional.
Find, present, communicate and disseminate data analysis outputs effectively and with high impact through creative storytelling, tailoring the message for the audience. Visualise data to tell compelling and actionable narratives by using the best medium for each audience, such as charts, graphs and dashboards. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S51: computing data analyst professional.
Identify barriers to effective analysis encountered both by analysts and their stakeholders within data analysis projects. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S52: computing data analyst professional.
Apply a range of techniques for analysing quantitative data such as data mining, time series forecasting, algorithms, statistics and modelling techniques to identify and predict trends and patterns in data. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S53: computing data analyst professional.
Apply exploratory or confirmatory approaches to analysing data. Validate and and test stability of the results. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S54: computing data analyst professional.
Extract data from a range of sources. For example, databases, web services, open data. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S55: computing data analyst professional.
Analyse in detail large data sets, using a range of industry standard tools and data analysis methods. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S56: network engineering professional.
Identify and collate stakeholder needs in relation to computer network requirements, plans and designs. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S57: network engineering professional.
Plan, design, document, and develop the relevant elements of a computer network within an organisation or between organisations, taking into account customer requirements (performance, scale), constraints (budget, equipment availability), and define policies for their use. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S58: network engineering professional.
Monitor performance and ensure networks are configured correctly and perform as expected by designers or architects. Undertake capacity management and audit of IP addressing and hosted devices. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S59: network engineering professional.
Investigate, troubleshoot and resolve data network faults in local and wide area environments, using information from multiple sources, Physically or Remotely by console connection. Recommend and implement short term fixes to restore service and, or, quality of experience and recommend longer term changes to prevent recurrence or reduce impact of future occurrences. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S60: network engineering professional.
Implement computer networks from a design including testing and validation. This includes populating variables in configurations, for example, IP addresses and subsequent application of configuration to equipment such as routers, switches, firewalls. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S61: network engineering professional.
Secure network systems by establishing and enforcing policies, and defining and monitoring access. Support and administer firewall environments in line with IT security policy. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S62: network engineering professional.
Research and evaluate emerging network technologies and assess relevance to current network requirements. Provide an objective opinion on how new features and technologies may be incorporated as required by the organisation. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
S63: network engineering professional.
Investigate security concerns or attacks. For example, Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS), port scanning, assessing key metrics and indicators, evidencing the chosen steps to mitigate. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1: Core.
Has a strong work ethic and commitment in order to meet the standards required. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B2: Core.
Reliable, objective and capable of both independent and team working. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B3: Core.
Acts with integrity with respect to ethical, legal and regulatory requirements ensuring the protection of personal data, safety and security. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
B4: Core.
Commits to continuous professional development; maintaining their knowledge and skills in relation to developments in digital and technology solutions that influence their work. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B5: Core.
Interacts professionally with people from technical and non-technical backgrounds. Presents data and conclusions in an evidently truthful, concise and appropriate manner. Back to Grading |
Project Report with presentation, questions and answers |
|
B6: Core.
Participates in and shares best practice in their organisation, and the wider community for aspects relevant to digital and technology solutions. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B7: Core.
Maintains awareness of trends and innovations in the subject area, utilising a range of academic literature, online sources, community interaction, conference attendance and other methods which can deliver business value. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B8: Core.
Champions diversity and inclusion in their work ensuring that digital technology solutions are accessible. Back to Grading |
Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
(Core) The Organisational Context
K1 K2 |
How organisations adapt and exploit digital technology solutions to gain a competitive advantage. (K1) The principles of strategic decision making concerning the acquisition or development of digital and technology solutions. For example business architecture approaches such as capability models and target operating models. (K2) |
None |
None |
|
(Core) Project Requirements
S3 B3 |
None |
Analyse a business problem in order to specify an appropriate digital and technology solution. (S3) |
Acts with integrity with respect to ethical, legal and regulatory requirements ensuring the protection of personal data, safety and security. (B3) |
|
(Core) Project Planning and Resources
K3 K4 K15 S2 S14 |
Principles of estimating the risks and opportunities of digital and technology solutions. (K3) Techniques and approaches involved in creating a business case for new digital and technology solutions. For example journey, product and capability mapping and value chains. (K4) Principles of estimating cost, and time resource constraints within digital and technology solutions activities. (K15) |
Identify risks, determine mitigation strategies and opportunities for improvement in a digital and technology solutions project. (S2) Research, investigate, and evaluate innovative technologies or approaches in the development of a digital and technology solution. (S14) |
None |
|
(Core) Solution Proposal
S1 |
None |
Analyse a business problem to identify the role of digital and technology solutions. (S1) |
None |
|
(Core) Project Delivery
K5 S5 S6 |
A range of digital technology solution development techniques and tools. (K5) |
Apply relevant standard processes, methods, techniques and tools. For example, ISO Standards, Waterfall, Agile in a digital and technology solution project. (S5) Manage digital and technology solutions projects. For example, identifying and resolving deviations from specification, applying appropriate Project Management methodologies. (S6) |
None |
|
(Core) Project Evaluation
K17 K18 S13 |
Reporting techniques, including how to synthesise information and present concisely, as appropriate to the target audience. (K17) Techniques of robust research and evaluation for the justification of digital and technology solutions. (K18) |
Report effectively to colleagues and stakeholders using the appropriate language and style, to meet the needs of the audience concerned. (S13) |
None |
|
(Software Engineer) Technical Solutions
K25 K26 K27 |
The factors affecting product quality and approaches for how to control them throughout the development process. For example security, code quality, coding standards. (K25) How to select and apply a range of software tools used in Software Engineering. (K26) Approaches to the interpretation and use of artefacts. For example UML, unit tests, architecture. (K27) |
None |
None |
|
(Software Engineer) Innovation and Response
S16 S17 S18 S19 S22 |
None |
Identify and define software engineering problems that are non-routine and incompletely specified. (S16) Provide recommendations as to the most appropriate software engineering solution. (S17) Use appropriate analysis methods, approaches and techniques in software engineering projects to deliver an outcome that meets requirements. (S18) Implement software engineering projects using appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques. (S19) Evaluate learning points arising from software engineering work undertaken on a project including use of methods, analysis undertaken, selection of approach and the outcome achieved, in order to identify both lessons learnt and recommendations for improvements to future projects. (S22) |
None |
|
(IT Consultant) Underlying Principles
K29 K32 |
Principles of different consulting methodologies. For example issue-based, and hypothesis based. (K29) The barriers to solving digital and technology problems or maximising opportunities. (K32) |
None |
None |
|
(IT Consultant) Innovation and Response
K33 S24 S26 S28 |
Approaches to presenting recommendations to stakeholders and influencing action. (K33) |
Analyse client needs and determine how to advise them strategically through improved business processes, new ideas, or technology solutions. (S24) Make evidence based recommendations taking into account risks, costs, and benefits. (S26) Perform stakeholder analysis to identify, determine and deepen understanding of system requirements and develop client relationships. (S28) |
None |
|
(IT Consultant) Ethics and Landscape
S30 |
None |
Ensure legal and ethical requirements are accommodated in the development of digital and technology solutions. (S30) |
None |
|
(IT Consultant) Technical Solutions
S31 |
None |
Evaluate the success of new systems, processes, or initiatives. (S31) |
None |
|
(Business Analyst) Technical Solutions
S32 S34 |
None |
Use requirements elicitation, analysis and documentation to produce an acceptable solution for business problems or further opportunities. (S32) Produce Use Cases which are of value to all stakeholders of a system. (S34) |
None |
|
(Business Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K44 S36 S38 |
Approaches to change control and requirements management. (K44) |
Produce a business case to scope a proposed project including business benefits and recommendations. (S36) Evaluate the impacts of model selection and how they inter-relate with each other when generating business analytics. (S38) |
None |
|
(Business Analyst) Innovation and Response
K40 S39 |
Solution Evaluation, including how to assess the performance of and value delivered by a solution and to recommend improvements on increasing values. (K40) |
Recommend and use appropriate software tools to implement Business Analysis tasks and outcomes. (S39) |
None |
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Underlying Principles
K45 K51 |
Principles of cyber security tools and techniques. (K45) Principles of common security architectures and methodologies. (K51) |
None |
None |
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Innovation and Response
K52 S42 S46 S47 |
Approaches to deployment of cyber security technology components in digital systems to provide security functionality. For example hardware and software to implement security controls. (K52) |
Recommend improvements to the cyber security approaches of an organisation based on research into future potential cyber threats and considering threat trends. (S42) Analyse cyber security requirements against other design requirements for systems or products, identify conflicting requirements and recommend appropriate solutions with clear explanation of costs and benefits. (S46) Lead the design and build of systems in accordance with a security case to address organisational challenges. (S47) |
None |
|
(Cyber Security Analyst) Technical Solutions
S40 S44 |
None |
Discover, identify and analyse security threats, attack techniques and vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation and security controls. (S40) Use appropriate cyber security technology, tools and techniques in relation to the risks identified. (S44) |
None |
|
(Data Analyst) Underlying Principles
K54 K56 K58 |
How to critically analyse, interpret and evaluate complex information from diverse datasets. (K54) Sources of data such as files, operational systems, databases, web services, open data, government data, news and social media. (K56) How Data Analytics operates within the context of data governance, data security, and communications. (K58) |
None |
None |
|
(Data Analyst) Innovation and Response
S50 S52 S53 S54 S55 |
None |
Find, present, communicate and disseminate data analysis outputs effectively and with high impact through creative storytelling, tailoring the message for the audience. Visualise data to tell compelling and actionable narratives by using the best medium for each audience, such as charts, graphs and dashboards. (S50) Apply a range of techniques for analysing quantitative data such as data mining, time series forecasting, algorithms, statistics and modelling techniques to identify and predict trends and patterns in data. (S52) Apply exploratory or confirmatory approaches to analysing data. Validate and and test stability of the results. (S53) Extract data from a range of sources. For example, databases, web services, open data. (S54) Analyse in detail large data sets, using a range of industry standard tools and data analysis methods. (S55) |
None |
|
(Network Engineer) Underlying Principles
K61 K62 K66 |
The role and function of virtual or physical network components and functions and typical topologies and service architectures. (K61) The main network protocols in use, their purpose, features and relationship to each other. For example, Ethernet, IP (Internet Protocol), TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First). (K62) Key security concepts. For example threats, vulnerabilities, exploits, detection and mitigation techniques, and security program elements such as user awareness, physical access control, multi-layer defence models. (K66) |
None |
None |
|
(Network Engineer) Innovation and Response
S56 S57 S60 S62 |
None |
Identify and collate stakeholder needs in relation to computer network requirements, plans and designs. (S56) Plan, design, document, and develop the relevant elements of a computer network within an organisation or between organisations, taking into account customer requirements (performance, scale), constraints (budget, equipment availability), and define policies for their use. (S57) Implement computer networks from a design including testing and validation. This includes populating variables in configurations, for example, IP addresses and subsequent application of configuration to equipment such as routers, switches, firewalls. (S60) Research and evaluate emerging network technologies and assess relevance to current network requirements. Provide an objective opinion on how new features and technologies may be incorporated as required by the organisation. (S62) |
None |
|
(Network Engineer) Technical Solutions
S63 |
None |
Investigate security concerns or attacks. For example, Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS), port scanning, assessing key metrics and indicators, evidencing the chosen steps to mitigate. (S63) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
(Core) The Organisational Context
K7 |
The roles, functions and activities within digital technology solutions within an organisation. (K7) |
None |
None |
|
(Core) Core Technical Concepts
K6 K11 K12 K14 K16 |
The approaches and techniques used throughout the digital and technology solution lifecycle and their applicability to an organisation’s standards and pre-existing tools. (K6) The nature and scope of common vulnerabilities in digital and technology solutions. For example, the risks of unsecure coding and unprotected networks. (K11) The role of data management systems within Digital and Technology Solutions. (K12) A range of quantitative and qualitative data gathering methods and how to appraise and select the appropriate method. (K14) Fundamental computer networking concepts in relation to digital and technology solutions. For example, structure, cloud architecture, components, quality of service. (K16) |
None |
None |
|
(Core) Applied Technical Solutions
K13 S4 S9 S10 S11 S12 |
Principles of data analysis for digital and technology solutions. (K13) |
Initiate, design, code, test and debug a software component for a digital and technology solution. (S4) Apply relevant security and resilience techniques to a digital and technology solution. For example, risk assessments, mitigation strategies. (S9) Initiate, design, implement and debug a data product for a digital and technology solution. (S10) Determine and use appropriate data analysis techniques. For example, Text, Statistical, Diagnostic or Predictive Analysis to assess a digital and technology solutions. (S11) Plan, design and manage simple computer networks with an overall focus on the services and capabilities that network infrastructure solutions enable in an organisational context. (S12) |
None |
|
(Core) Leading and Working Together
K8 K9 K10 S7 S8 B4 B6 B7 |
How teams work effectively to produce digital and technology solutions. (K8) The concepts and principles of leadership. (K9) Management techniques and theories. For example, effective decision making, delegation and planning methods, time management and change management. (K10) |
Work effectively within teams, leading on appropriate digital technology solution activities. (S7) Apply relevant organisational theories. For example, change management principles, marketing approaches, strategic practice, and IT service management to a digital and technology solutions project. (S8) |
Commits to continuous professional development; maintaining their knowledge and skills in relation to developments in digital and technology solutions that influence their work. (B4) Participates in and shares best practice in their organisation, and the wider community for aspects relevant to digital and technology solutions. (B6) Maintains awareness of trends and innovations in the subject area, utilising a range of academic literature, online sources, community interaction, conference attendance and other methods which can deliver business value. (B7) |
|
(Core) Social Infrastructure - Legal, Ethical and Sustainability
K19 K20 S15 B1 B2 B8 |
Relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to a digital and technology solution. For example, Diversity, Accessibility, Intellectual Property, Data Protection Acts, Codes of Practice, Regulatory and Compliance frameworks. (K19) Sustainable development approaches as applied to digital and technology solutions such as green computing. (K20) |
Apply relevant legal, ethical, social and professional standards to a digital and technology solution. (S15) |
Has a strong work ethic and commitment in order to meet the standards required. (B1) Reliable, objective and capable of both independent and team working. (B2) Champions diversity and inclusion in their work ensuring that digital technology solutions are accessible. (B8) |
|
(Software Engineer) Underlying Principles
K21 K22 K23 |
How to operate at all stages of the software development life cycle and how each stage is applied in a range of contexts. For example, requirements analysis, design, development, testing, implementation. (K21) Principles of a range of development techniques, for each stage of the software development cycle that produce artefacts and the contexts in which they can be applied. For example UML, unit testing, programming, debugging, frameworks, architectures. (K22) Principles of a range of development methods and approaches and the contexts in which they can be applied. For example Scrum, Extreme Programming, Waterfall, Prince2, TDD. (K23) |
None |
None |
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(Software Engineer) Technical Solutions
K24 K28 |
How to interpret and implement a design, compliant with functional, non-functional and security requirements including principles and approaches to addressing legacy software development issues from a technical and socio-technical perspective. For example architectures, languages, operating systems, hardware, business change. (K24) Approaches to effective team work and the range of software development tools supporting effective teamwork. For example, configuration management, version control and release management. (K28) |
None |
None |
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(Software Engineer) Innovation and Response
S20 S21 |
None |
Respond to changing priorities and problems arising within software engineering projects by making revised recommendations, and adapting plans as necessary, to fit the scenario being investigated. (S20) Determine, refine, adapt and use appropriate software engineering methods, approaches and techniques to evaluate software engineering project outcomes. (S21) |
None |
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(Software Engineer) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
S23 |
None |
Extend and update software development knowledge with evidence from professional and academic sources by undertaking appropriate research to inform best practice and lead improvements in the organisation. (S23) |
None |
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(IT Consultant) Underlying Principles
K30 K31 K34 K35 K36 |
How consulting interfaces with project management, business analysis and business management. (K30) Principles of change management within organisations. (K31) Approaches to analytical and critical thinking to define business problems objectively and create value for the client. (K34) Questioning strategies and active listening to ensure all requirements are gathered. (K35) The ethical and legal requirements in client and provider relationships. (K36) |
None |
None |
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(IT Consultant) Innovation and Response
S25 S27 |
None |
Effectively communicate value add to the client through a variety of media. For example, presentations, written reports, Storytelling in a professional setting through performing socio-technical process improvements in a range of environments. (S25) Participate in walk-throughs for Information Technologies, to identify, document and evaluate key risks within a client’s organisation. (S27) |
None |
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(IT Consultant) Technical Solutions
S29 |
None |
Effect change within an organisation through evaluation of a new system, process or initiative. (S29) |
None |
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(Business Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K41 K42 S33 |
Legislation and industry standards relevant to Business Analysis in the organisation and sector. (K41) The purpose and value of quality assurance techniques. (K42) |
Conduct Process Analysis, Definition, Mapping and Modelling within a business situation without supervision. (S33) |
None |
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(Business Analyst) Technical Solutions
K38 K43 S37 |
Approaches to Requirements Life Cycle Management including how to manage and maintain requirements and design information from inception to retirement of a product. (K38) A range of Business Analysis investigative techniques. (K43) |
Use products of analysis in the design and development of a system. (S37) |
None |
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(Business Analyst) Innovation and Response
K39 S35 |
Principles of Strategy Analysis, including how to identify the business need, address that need, and align the change strategy within the organisation. (K39) |
Use tools and benchmarking to support modelling and requirements gathering and recommend approaches to team members as required. (S35) |
None |
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(Cyber Security Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K46 K48 K50 S45 |
Principles of quantitative and qualitative risk management theory including the role of risk stakeholders. (K46) Key legislative frameworks and the regulatory landscape for cyber security including Data Protection Act 2018 , Network Information System Directive 2018, Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, ISO 27001. (K48) Ethical principles and codes of good practice of at least one significant cyber security professional body and the ethical responsibilities of a cyber security professional. (K50) |
Lead cyber security awareness campaigns and evaluate their effectiveness. (S45) |
None |
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(Cyber Security Analyst) Technical Solutions
K47 K49 S41 S43 |
Concepts and approaches to cyber security assurance. (K47) Approaches to incident response and management including escalation and investigation of cyber security breaches and their root cause. (K49) |
Undertake security risk assessments for complex systems without direct supervision and propose a remediation strategy relevant to the context of the organisation. (S41) Manage cyber security risk. (S43) |
None |
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(Data Analyst) Underlying Principles
K53 K55 K57 |
The barriers that exist to effective data analysis between analysts and their stakeholders and how to avoid or resolve these. (K53) Data formats, structures, architectures and data delivery methods including “unstructured” data. (K55) Approaches to data processing and storage, database systems, data warehousing and online analytical processing, data-driven decision making and the good use of evidence and analytics in making choices and decisions. (K57) |
None |
None |
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(Data Analyst) Technical Solutions
K59 |
How Data Analytics can be applied to improve an organisation’s processes, operations and outputs. (K59) |
None |
None |
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(Data Analyst) Legal, Ethics and Landscape
K60 |
How data and analysis may exhibit biases and prejudice. How ethics and compliance affect Data Analytics work, and the impact of international regulations. For example, General Data Protection Regulation, Data Protection Act 2018. (K60) |
None |
None |
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(Data Analyst) Innovation and Response
S48 S49 S51 |
None |
Define Data Requirements and perform Data Collection, Data Processing and Data Cleansing. (S48) Apply different types of Data Analysis, as appropriate, to drive improvements for specific business problems. (S49) Identify barriers to effective analysis encountered both by analysts and their stakeholders within data analysis projects. (S51) |
None |
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(Network Engineer) Technical Solutions
K63 K67 K68 S58 S61 |
The benefits and risks of cloud computing and the common integration deployments (private, public, hybrid). Including the benefits and risks of virtualisation as a concept; key features of virtualisation and current cloud platforms available. (K63) SDN (Software Defined Networking) and Network Function Virtualisation Core Principles. For example, Control Plane Separation, flexibility, overlay networks, disassociation of software and hardware layers. (K67) Key elements of mobile networks. For example RAN (Radio Access Network), EPC (Evolved Packet Core), IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) including some specific key functions such as S/P/U-Gateways and the concepts in communicating over free-space media such as interference, ground bounce, encryption and in mobile endpoint platforms such as tracking user location and roaming. (K68) |
Monitor performance and ensure networks are configured correctly and perform as expected by designers or architects. Undertake capacity management and audit of IP addressing and hosted devices. (S58) Secure network systems by establishing and enforcing policies, and defining and monitoring access. Support and administer firewall environments in line with IT security policy. (S61) |
None |
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(Network Engineer) Underlying Principles
K64 K65 |
The main factors that affect network performance, and how to mitigate these on network performance by implementing changes to QoS. For example, Traffic Shaping, Policing, Queuing, Topology (physical and logical), and Network Policy (Traffic Analysis, DPI (Deep Packet Inspection). (K64) Principles of failure modes in protocols. For example, why a protocol may ‘hang’ and the effect of data communication errors and approaches to addressing failures to optimise network performance. (K65) |
None |
None |
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(Network Engineer) Innovation and Response
S59 |
None |
Investigate, troubleshoot and resolve data network faults in local and wide area environments, using information from multiple sources, Physically or Remotely by console connection. Recommend and implement short term fixes to restore service and, or, quality of experience and recommend longer term changes to prevent recurrence or reduce impact of future occurrences. (S59) |
None |
Contact us about this apprenticeship
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 | Standard, end-point assessment plan and funding band revised | 01/09/2023 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.1 | The funding band for this standard has been reviewed as part of the apprenticeship funding band review. The new funding band is £25000 | 13/05/2019 | 31/08/2023 | Not set |
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 26/03/2015 | 12/05/2019 | Not set |
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