This apprenticeship is in development and is subject to change
An apprenticeship is only available for delivery when both the standard and assessment plan is approved and a funding band (core government contribution) has been assigned to the standard.
If you'd like to get involved and contribute to the development of this apprenticeship, please read about developing standards and assessment plans. You can email the trailblazer contact using the details on this page.
Proposal approved
Occupational standard approved
End-point assessment plan approved
Funding approved
This occupation is found in the furniture and interiors industry. Furniture finishers prepare and treat wood and manufactured boards, for example MDF and veneered boards to give it a smooth finish and bring out its natural beauty. Items to be finished could range from tables, chairs, lounge suites, cabinets, chests of drawers, bespoke furniture, kitchen units and shop fittings. They may also work on fitted items such as staircases, wall panels and doors and on musical instruments like pianos. With antique furniture and some specially commissioned modern pieces, polishing and finishing are carried out by hand. Building up layers of polish is a slow and methodical process. With modern manufacturing and mass-produced items, furniture finishers also use a pressure spray-painting method. Furniture finishers may also be involved in carrying out simple repairs. Employers vary in size from micro to large.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to finish furniture by applying modern and traditional finishing products. Furniture finishers analyse and agree requirements and prepare hand crafted or production furniture for finishing. They identify and apply different types of finishes creating decorative effects or specialist finishes on furniture such as French polishing. They operate machinery and carry out routine maintenance. They also solve routine problems and issues and contribute to continuous improvement activities. Furniture finishers can work in a range of environments from small workshops to large factories and may be required to work various shift patterns.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with furniture manufacturers, designers, production or manufacturing managers, quality technicians, cabinet makers and joiners, production leaders and product developers. In smaller organisations they may also interact with customers. They usually report to a supervisor or shift team leader.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for preparing and treating a wide range of timbers and man-made boards, using a range of techniques. They are responsible for the quality of their own work and meeting production targets. All work must be completed in line with health, safety and environmental regulations and considerations. They must wear personal protective equipment such as goggles, masks and protective clothing.
| Duty | KSBs |
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Duty 1 Review tasks and agree furniture finishing requirements with stakeholders and plan the day’s activity. |
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Duty 2 Identify, select and use the appropriate tools and materials for furniture finishing. For example, using the correct stain for the type of surface to build depth of colour; allowing sufficient drying times between multiple coats. |
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Duty 3 Prepare furniture for finishing. Inspect furniture and report issues. For example knots, wane, blue stain or resin pockets. |
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Duty 4 Set up and operate furniture finishing machinery, tools and equipment. For example, spray equipment. |
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Duty 5 Match the colour of the finishing product and furniture, mix applications and record ratios. |
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Duty 6 Create and apply decorative effects or specialist finishes on furniture. For example, patinas, distressing, rag rolling, shabby chic, stipple feathering, liming, crackle, grading, scumble, French polishing. |
K4 K5 K9 K11 K12 K14 K17 K18 K23 |
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Duty 7 Revive existing finishes by sanding and cleaning surface, then applying a protecting finish. For example, oil, lacquer, shellac or varnish. |
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Duty 8 Identify and report issues relating to quality, quantity, specifications, workload, equipment, plans and deadlines. |
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Duty 9 Complete documentation relating to the furniture finishing process. For example, job sheets, work to lists, production records. |
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Duty 10 Identify problems with furniture finishes and apply solutions. For example blooming, moisture, temperature, blotching, runs, streaks, curing, and silicones – orange peel, fish eye. |
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Duty 11 Conduct preventative maintenance on finishing machinery, tools and equipment. For example, checking, cleaning and lubricating tools. |
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Duty 12 Support continuous improvement activities to address business needs. |
K2 K3 K9 K17 K18 K20 K21 K22 K23 |
K1: The furniture industry. Types of services and products. Types of employers. Types of customers. Supply chain. Stakeholders.
Back to Duty
K2: The furniture finishing process and the role of the furniture finisher. Responsibilities, limits of role and escalation procedures.
Back to Duty
K3: Work organisation and time management techniques.
Back to Duty
K4: Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Fire safety. Hazards and risks. Health and Safety at Work Act. Isolation and emergency stop procedures. Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) and Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR).
Back to Duty
K5: Safe systems of work including PPE, tools, equipment and materials, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH).
Back to Duty
K6: Storage requirements for hand tools, power tools and equipment.
Back to Duty
K7: Principles and techniques of preventative maintenance activities for furniture finishing machinery, tools and equipment.
Back to Duty
K8: Environment and sustainability regulations, standards and guidance.
Back to Duty
K9: Impact of the sector on the environment. Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse and disposal of waste.
Back to Duty
K10: Preparation of furniture and materials for finishing, sanding, stripping and repair techniques.
Back to Duty
K11: Machinery tools and equipment used in preparing furniture for finishing, limits of use, purpose, safe set up, monitoring and operation, working limits.
Back to Duty
K12: Principles and techniques of colour matching and mixing, material compatibility and recording materials and ratios.
Back to Duty
K13: Techniques, materials including storage, equipment, and timescales for preparing, applying and drying spray finishes to furniture.
Back to Duty
K14: Techniques, materials including storage, equipment, and timescales for preparing, applying and drying hand finishes to furniture to create decorative effects and specialist finishes. For example, patinas, distressing, rag rolling, shabby chic, stipple feathering, liming, crackle, grading, scumble, French polishing.
Back to Duty
K15: Techniques for reviving and protecting finishes.
Back to Duty
K16: Documentation requirements - electronic and paper.
Back to Duty
K17: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), quality assurance requirements and monitoring processes.
Back to Duty
K18: Common faults and issues with furniture and finishing and how to rectify them.
Back to Duty
K19: Basic continuous improvement techniques, for example 5 Why's, 5S, KAIZEN.
Back to Duty
K20: Principles of good team working.
Back to Duty
K21: Legislation, guidance and principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Back to Duty
K22: Verbal communication techniques.
Back to Duty
K23: Information technology and digital: digital manufacturing management systems. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security.
Back to Duty
S1: Agree scope of work and timescales with customers and plan activity.
Back to Duty
S2: Prepare work area and maintain before, during and after tasks.
Back to Duty
S3: Store materials, tools, and equipment.
Back to Duty
S4: Apply health and safety procedures and safe systems of work.
Back to Duty
S5: Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality assurance requirements and monitoring procedures.
Back to Duty
S6: Select and check tools, equipment and machinery.
Back to Duty
S7: Set up, operate and monitor machinery, hand and power tools and equipment use to prepare furniture for finishing.
Back to Duty
S8: Follow environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, procedures and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
Back to Duty
S9: Inspect, sand, strip and repair surfaces for finishing and report issues.
Back to Duty
S10: Apply colour matching and mixing techniques including checking compatibility and recording materials and ratios.
Back to Duty
S11: Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to finish furniture by hand.
Back to Duty
S12: Apply and adjust hand finishing techniques to create decorative effects or specialist finishes to furniture.
Back to Duty
S13: Apply techniques to revive and protect existing finish.
Back to Duty
S14: Record information - paper based or electronic.
Back to Duty
S15: Identify and resolve common faults and issues in furniture finishing.
Back to Duty
S16: Escalate issues or concerns.
Back to Duty
S17: Apply preventative maintenance techniques to machinery, tools and equipment. For example checking, cleaning and lubricating.
Back to Duty
S18: Apply basic continuous improvement techniques for example, 5 Why's, 5S, KAIZEN.
Back to Duty
S19: Apply team working principles.
Back to Duty
S20: Follow equity, diversity and inclusion legislation and guidance.
Back to Duty
S21: Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers, colleagues, and managers.
Back to Duty
S22: Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security.
Back to Duty
S23: Carry out and record learning and development activities.
Back to Duty
S24: Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to spray finish furniture.
Back to Duty
S25: Apply and adjust spray techniques to finish furniture.
Back to Duty
B1: Take ownership of given work.
Back to Duty
B2: Put health and safety first.
Back to Duty
B3: Consider the impact on the environment when using resources and carrying out work.
Back to Duty
B4: Team-focus to meet work goals.
Back to Duty
B5: Support an inclusive workplace for example, respectful of different views.
Back to Duty
B6: Seek learning and development opportunities.
Back to Duty
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the furniture finisher apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Furniture finisher apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time furniture finisher apprentice typically spends 15 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 3 months.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must work with the training provider to select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship providers and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 2 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - observation with questions:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 15 months
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The apprentice must:
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
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End-point assessment - typically 3 months
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The grades available for each assessment method are below
Observation with questions:
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
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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 start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements:
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain 10 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance, for example, witness statements, rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
Portfolio evidence from simulated environments
It is understood that some skills in this apprenticeship are used less often but are still required for overall occupational competence. Some apprentices may not get sufficient opportunity to apply the full range of required skills in the workplace during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. Therefore, a flexibility has been included in this EPA plan, allowing certain skills-based evidence to be captured in a simulated environment, for example, at the employer's or training provider's premises. Allowing evidence from a simulated environment ensures at there is a fair opportunity for apprentices to gather skills-based evidence for the portfolio of evidence. This is where opportunities to collect evidence in the workplace are not available.
Every effort should be made for the apprentice to access workplace evidence for all skills before this flexibility is applied.
Any simulated evidence must reflect the apprentice’s usual work and be fully transferable to the workplace.
The portfolio must include a statement from the employer or training provider confirming that the evidence provided from a simulated environment is entirely attributable to the apprentice.
This flexibility applies to the following skills when assessed in the interview only:
S11 Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to finish furniture by hand
S12 Apply and adjust hand finishing techniques to create decorative effects or specialist finishes to furniture
S24 Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to spray finish furniture
S25 Apply and adjust spray techniques to finish furniture
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods must be delivered in the following order:
The observation assessment method must be delivered before the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence.
This is to ensure one furniture finishing technique is assessed in the observation with questions, and the other assessed in the interview underpinned by a portfolio, and that neither technique is double assessed. For example, if the apprentice spray finishes furniture (K13, S24, S25) in the observation the independent assessor must assess the apprentice's hand finishing technique (K14, S11, S12) in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence.
In the observation with questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice in their workplace and asks questions. The apprentice completes their day-to-day duties under normal working conditions. Simulation is not allowed. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
The observation with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the observation with questions.
The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must give the apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the observation with questions.
The observation must take 3 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the observation with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.
The apprentice may choose to end the assessment method early. The apprentice must be confident they have demonstrated competence against the assessment requirements for the assessment method. The independent assessor or EPAO must ensure the apprentice is fully aware of all assessment requirements. The independent assessor or EPAO cannot suggest or choose to end the assessment methods early, unless in an emergency. The EPAO is responsible for ensuring the apprentice understands the implications of ending an assessment early if they choose to do so. The independent assessor may suggest the assessment continues. The independent assessor must document the apprentice’s request to end the assessment early.
The observation may be split into discrete sections held on the same working day.
The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the observation with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor should observe the following during the observation:
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions. Questioning can occur both during and after the observation.
The purpose of the questioning is to assess the level of competence against the grading descriptors.
The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The independent assessor must ask at least 2 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural stops between tasks and after completion of work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must ask questions about KSBs that were not observed to gather assessment evidence. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the observation with questions and should be kept to a minimum.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must assess the observation and responses to questions holistically when deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The observation with questions must take place in the apprentice’s normal place of work for example, their employer’s premises or a customer’s premises. Equipment and resources needed for the observation must be provided by the employer and be in good and safe working condition.
Questioning that occurs after the observation should take place in a suitable environment, for example a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the observation with questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose is to assess the apprentice's competence against the following themes:
* The independent assessor must only assess the finishing technique in the interview underpinned by a portfolio that was not assessed in the observation with questions, either spray finishing (K13, S24, S25) or hand finishing techniques (K14, S11, S12).
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The apprentice may choose to end the assessment method early. The apprentice must be confident they have demonstrated competence against the assessment requirements for the assessment method. The independent assessor or EPAO must ensure the apprentice is fully aware of all assessment requirements. The independent assessor or EPAO cannot suggest or choose to end the assessment methods early, unless in an emergency. The EPAO is responsible for ensuring the apprentice understands the implications of ending an assessment early if they choose to do so. The independent assessor may suggest the assessment continues. The independent assessor must document the apprentice’s request to end the assessment early.
The independent assessor must ask at least 10 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
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|---|---|
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Health and safety
K4 K5 S2 S4 B2 |
Prioritises health and safety, maintains their work area and applies health and safety procedures and safe systems of work before, during and after tasks, including the use of PPE, tools, equipment and materials in line with CoSHH regulations. (K4, K5, S2, S4, B2)
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Machinery, tools and equipment
K6 K11 S3 S6 S7 |
Selects, checks, sets up, operates and monitors machinery, hand and power tools and equipment to prepare furniture for finishing in line with operating instructions and manufacturers’ guidelines. (K11, S6, S7) Stores materials, hand and power tools and equipment in line with company policy and procedures. (K6, S3) |
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Prepare furniture for finishing
K10 S9 |
Inspects, sands, strips and repairs surfaces to meet the needs of the task, including reporting issues in line with company policy and procedures. (K10, S9) |
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Finishing furniture. Apprentices must only be assessed on one finishing technique in the observation, either spraying or by-hand
K13 K14 S11 S12 S24 S25 B1 |
Apprentices must only be assessed on one finishing technique in the observation, either spraying (K13, S24, S25) or by-hand (K14, S11, S12). If the apprentice spray finishes furniture the following grade descriptors apply:
If the apprentice finishes furniture by-hand the following grade descriptors apply:
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Quality assurance
K17 S5 |
Follows standard operating procedures, quality assurance requirements and monitoring processes to complete furniture finishing tasks that meet specification. (K17, S5) |
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Documentation
K16 S14 |
Records information on paper or electronically in line with task requirements and company procedures. (K16, S14) |
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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 of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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Prepare for work
K1 K3 S1 |
Explains how they agree the scope of work with customers and plan work activities to meet the needs of the task and agreed timescales. (K1, K3, S1) |
None. |
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Maintenance of machinery tools and equipment
K7 S17 |
Describes how they apply preventative maintenance techniques to machinery, tools and equipment in line with manufacturer’s guidelines. (K7, S17) |
Explains the importance of carrying out preventative maintenance activities to machinery, tools and equipment in line with manufacturer’s guidelines. (K7, S17) |
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Colour matching and mixing
K12 S10 |
Explains how they apply colour matching and mixing techniques including checking compatibility of materials to achieve a colour and finish that meets the task specification. Explains how they record the materials and ratios used in line with company requirements. (K12, S10)
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Explains the importance of recording the ratios of materials used in the furniture finishing process. (K12, S10) |
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Finishing techniques. Apprentices must only be assessed on the finishing technique not assessed in the observation, either spraying or by-hand
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Apprentices must only be assessed on the finishing technique they did not undertake in the observation. If the apprentice spray finished furniture in the observation the following grade descriptors for hand finishing techniques apply in the interview:
If the apprentice finished furniture by-hand in the observation the following grade descriptors for spray finishing apply in the interview:
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None. |
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Reviving surfaces
K15 S13 |
Explains how they apply techniques to revive and protect existing finishes to meet customer requirements or specification. (K15, S13) |
None. |
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Quality and improvement
K2 K18 K19 S15 S16 S18 |
Outlines the furniture finishing process and the role and responsibilities of the furniture finisher. Identifies the limits of their role and explains when and how they escalate issues or concerns in line with company procedures. (K2, S16) Describes how they identify and resolve common furniture finishing issues and faults to support task completion. (K18, S15) Describes how they apply basic continuous improvement techniques in line with company policy. (K19, S18) |
Explains the importance of continuous improvement techniques to the business and the furniture finishing process. (K19, S18) |
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Teamwork
K20 S19 B4 |
Describes how they apply team working principles and are team focussed to meet work goals. (K20, S19, B4) |
Explains how their own team working skills supports the wider team and business goals. (K20, S19) |
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Continued professional development
S23 B6 |
Describes the learning and development activities they have completed and recorded that led to an increase in their professional competence. (S23, B6) |
None. |
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Environment and sustainability
K8 K9 S8 B3 |
Explains how they consider the impact of the furniture finishing sector on the environment when using resources and carrying out work. Describes how they segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, procedures and guidelines. (K8, K9, S8, B3) |
Explains the importance to the business and the environment of using resources efficiently (K9, S8) |
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Information and digital technology
K23 S22 |
Describes how they use information technology and digital manufacturing management systems and comply with GDPR and cyber security to support work tasks. (K23, S22) |
None. |
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Equity, diversity and inclusion
K21 S20 B5 |
Describes how they support equity, diversity, and inclusion in their workplace in line with legislation and following company guidance. (K21, S20, B5) |
None. |
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Communication
K22 S21 |
Describes how they use verbal communication techniques suitable for the context, adapting style and use of terminology to suit the audience. (K22, S21)
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None. |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the observation with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, the apprentice must achieve a pass in the observation with questions and a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Observation with questions | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction |
| Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Fail | Fail |
| Fail | Any grade | Fail |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 2 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 4 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of if pass they need to re-sit or re-take one or more assessment methods, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
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Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
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Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
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EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
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Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
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Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
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The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Special considerations
The EPAO must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship is not aligned to professional recognition.
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
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K1
The furniture industry. Types of services and products. Types of employers. Types of customers. Supply chain. Stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
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K2
The furniture finishing process and the role of the furniture finisher. Responsibilities, limits of role and escalation procedures. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
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K3
Work organisation and time management techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K4
Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Fire safety. Hazards and risks. Health and Safety at Work Act. Isolation and emergency stop procedures. Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) and Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K5
Safe systems of work including PPE, tools, equipment and materials, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH). Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K6
Storage requirements for hand tools, power tools and equipment. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K7
Principles and techniques of preventative maintenance activities for furniture finishing machinery, tools and equipment. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K8
Environment and sustainability regulations, standards and guidance. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K9
Impact of the sector on the environment. Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse and disposal of waste. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K10
Preparation of furniture and materials for finishing, sanding, stripping and repair techniques. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K11
Machinery tools and equipment used in preparing furniture for finishing, limits of use, purpose, safe set up, monitoring and operation, working limits. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K12
Principles and techniques of colour matching and mixing, material compatibility and recording materials and ratios. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K13
Techniques, materials including storage, equipment, and timescales for preparing, applying and drying spray finishes to furniture. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K14
Techniques, materials including storage, equipment, and timescales for preparing, applying and drying hand finishes to furniture to create decorative effects and specialist finishes. For example, patinas, distressing, rag rolling, shabby chic, stipple feathering, liming, crackle, grading, scumble, French polishing. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K15
Techniques for reviving and protecting finishes. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K16
Documentation requirements - electronic and paper. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K17
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), quality assurance requirements and monitoring processes. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
K18
Common faults and issues with furniture and finishing and how to rectify them. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K19
Basic continuous improvement techniques, for example 5 Why's, 5S, KAIZEN. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K20
Principles of good team working. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
Legislation, guidance and principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K22
Verbal communication techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K23
Information technology and digital: digital manufacturing management systems. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Agree scope of work and timescales with customers and plan activity. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S2
Prepare work area and maintain before, during and after tasks. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S3
Store materials, tools, and equipment. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S4
Apply health and safety procedures and safe systems of work. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S5
Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality assurance requirements and monitoring procedures. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S6
Select and check tools, equipment and machinery. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S7
Set up, operate and monitor machinery, hand and power tools and equipment use to prepare furniture for finishing. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S8
Follow environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, procedures and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S9
Inspect, sand, strip and repair surfaces for finishing and report issues. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S10
Apply colour matching and mixing techniques including checking compatibility and recording materials and ratios. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S11
Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to finish furniture by hand. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S12
Apply and adjust hand finishing techniques to create decorative effects or specialist finishes to furniture. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S13
Apply techniques to revive and protect existing finish. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S14
Record information - paper based or electronic. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S15
Identify and resolve common faults and issues in furniture finishing. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S16
Escalate issues or concerns. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S17
Apply preventative maintenance techniques to machinery, tools and equipment. For example checking, cleaning and lubricating. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S18
Apply basic continuous improvement techniques for example, 5 Why's, 5S, KAIZEN. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S19
Apply team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S20
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion legislation and guidance. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S21
Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers, colleagues, and managers. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S22
Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S23
Carry out and record learning and development activities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S24
Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to spray finish furniture. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
S25
Apply and adjust spray techniques to finish furniture. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Take ownership of given work. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
B2
Put health and safety first. Back to Grading |
Observation with questions |
|
B3
Consider the impact on the environment when using resources and carrying out work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B4
Team-focus to meet work goals. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B5
Support an inclusive workplace for example, respectful of different views. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B6
Seek learning and development opportunities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K4 K5 S2 S4 B2 |
Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Fire safety. Hazards and risks. Health and Safety at Work Act. Isolation and emergency stop procedures. Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) and Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). (K4) Safe systems of work including PPE, tools, equipment and materials, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH). (K5) |
Prepare work area and maintain before, during and after tasks. (S2) Apply health and safety procedures and safe systems of work. (S4) |
Put health and safety first. (B2) |
|
Machinery, tools and equipment
K6 K11 S3 S6 S7 |
Storage requirements for hand tools, power tools and equipment. (K6) Machinery tools and equipment used in preparing furniture for finishing, limits of use, purpose, safe set up, monitoring and operation, working limits. (K11) |
Store materials, tools, and equipment. (S3) Select and check tools, equipment and machinery. (S6) Set up, operate and monitor machinery, hand and power tools and equipment use to prepare furniture for finishing. (S7) |
None |
|
Prepare furniture for finishing
K10 S9 |
Preparation of furniture and materials for finishing, sanding, stripping and repair techniques. (K10) |
Inspect, sand, strip and repair surfaces for finishing and report issues. (S9) |
None |
|
Finishing furniture. Apprentices must only be assessed on one finishing technique in the observation, either spraying or by-hand
K13 K14 S11 S12 S24 S25 B1 |
Techniques, materials including storage, equipment, and timescales for preparing, applying and drying spray finishes to furniture. (K13) Techniques, materials including storage, equipment, and timescales for preparing, applying and drying hand finishes to furniture to create decorative effects and specialist finishes. For example, patinas, distressing, rag rolling, shabby chic, stipple feathering, liming, crackle, grading, scumble, French polishing. (K14) |
Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to finish furniture by hand. (S11) Apply and adjust hand finishing techniques to create decorative effects or specialist finishes to furniture. (S12) Identify, select and prepare materials, tools and equipment to spray finish furniture. (S24) Apply and adjust spray techniques to finish furniture. (S25) |
Take ownership of given work. (B1) |
|
Quality assurance
K17 S5 |
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), quality assurance requirements and monitoring processes. (K17) |
Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), quality assurance requirements and monitoring procedures. (S5) |
None |
|
Documentation
K16 S14 |
Documentation requirements - electronic and paper. (K16) |
Record information - paper based or electronic. (S14) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Prepare for work
K1 K3 S1 |
The furniture industry. Types of services and products. Types of employers. Types of customers. Supply chain. Stakeholders. (K1) Work organisation and time management techniques. (K3) |
Agree scope of work and timescales with customers and plan activity. (S1) |
None |
|
Maintenance of machinery tools and equipment
K7 S17 |
Principles and techniques of preventative maintenance activities for furniture finishing machinery, tools and equipment. (K7) |
Apply preventative maintenance techniques to machinery, tools and equipment. For example checking, cleaning and lubricating. (S17) |
None |
|
Colour matching and mixing
K12 S10 |
Principles and techniques of colour matching and mixing, material compatibility and recording materials and ratios. (K12) |
Apply colour matching and mixing techniques including checking compatibility and recording materials and ratios. (S10) |
None |
|
Finishing techniques. Apprentices must only be assessed on the finishing technique not assessed in the observation, either spraying or by-hand
|
None |
None |
None |
|
Reviving surfaces
K15 S13 |
Techniques for reviving and protecting finishes. (K15) |
Apply techniques to revive and protect existing finish. (S13) |
None |
|
Quality and improvement
K2 K18 K19 S15 S16 S18 |
The furniture finishing process and the role of the furniture finisher. Responsibilities, limits of role and escalation procedures. (K2) Common faults and issues with furniture and finishing and how to rectify them. (K18) Basic continuous improvement techniques, for example 5 Why's, 5S, KAIZEN. (K19) |
Identify and resolve common faults and issues in furniture finishing. (S15) Escalate issues or concerns. (S16) Apply basic continuous improvement techniques for example, 5 Why's, 5S, KAIZEN. (S18) |
None |
|
Teamwork
K20 S19 B4 |
Principles of good team working. (K20) |
Apply team working principles. (S19) |
Team-focus to meet work goals. (B4) |
|
Continued professional development
S23 B6 |
None |
Carry out and record learning and development activities. (S23) |
Seek learning and development opportunities. (B6) |
|
Environment and sustainability
K8 K9 S8 B3 |
Environment and sustainability regulations, standards and guidance. (K8) Impact of the sector on the environment. Efficient use of resources. Recycling, reuse and disposal of waste. (K9) |
Follow environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, procedures and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S8) |
Consider the impact on the environment when using resources and carrying out work. (B3) |
|
Information and digital technology
K23 S22 |
Information technology and digital: digital manufacturing management systems. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. (K23) |
Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security. (S22) |
None |
|
Equity, diversity and inclusion
K21 S20 B5 |
Legislation, guidance and principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. (K21) |
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion legislation and guidance. (S20) |
Support an inclusive workplace for example, respectful of different views. (B5) |
|
Communication
K22 S21 |
Verbal communication techniques. (K22) |
Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers, colleagues, and managers. (S21) |
None |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not set | Not set | Not set |
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