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From 1 September 2024 the HTQ HNs are available for delivery. The list of qualifications can be found here.

This apprenticeship has been retired

Key information

  1. Status: Retired
  2. Reference: ST0999
  3. Version: 1.1
  4. Level: 4
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 36 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 6 months
  7. Maximum funding: £19000
  8. Route: Engineering and manufacturing
  9. Integration: None
  10. Date updated: 07/06/2024
  11. Lars code: 690
  12. EQA provider: Ofqual
  13. Example progression routes:
  14. Review: this apprenticeship will be reviewed in accordance with our change request policy.
Print apprenticeship summary

Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Offer engineering support, technical leadership and expertise.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the engineering and manufacturing sector. Sectors typically include maritime, maritime defence, automotive, energy, engineering construction and general engineering maintenance industries. Lead maintenance engineering technicians typically perform a multi-disciplinary role, managing or leading other technicians. They may specialise in areas such as mechanical, electronic, or electrical engineering. Employers range from small to large businesses who deliver or require maintenance support. They include major asset owners and operators, the supply chain, contractors and sub-contractors. Typical workplaces include private and public sector manufacturing factories. They can also include dockyards and shipyards, vehicle maintenance facilities, onboard operational vehicles and vessels.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to offer engineering support, technical leadership and expertise.  Examples can include support for installation, refit, overhaul, alteration, upgrading, design and maintenance. They can also provide support for testing of significant assets, systems or machinery. They assist in the delivery of complex and critical asset management programmes. These asset management programmes are often to unique specifications involving complex maintenance and planning. They analyse technical information, plan schedules, co-ordinate, lead and deliver work on time. They ensure work is completed to the required quality, following product and personnel safety processes. They provide customer liaison, leadership, support and expertise to maintenance teams on technical issues. They deal with problems that occur using a structured and controlled approach. They carry out inspections on systems, equipment and components. They may lead on the commissioning back into operation after maintenance and overhaul. They can work in office environments while conducting research or maintenance design and scheduling activities. They can be in a workshop environment or outdoors conducting maintenance and commissioning activities. Depending on the organisation, they might be expected to work flexibly, including shift work.  They may also be ‘on-call’, to meet customer requirements.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with operators and maintenance teams.  They also interact with shift leaders, senior engineers, senior test engineers, design engineers, quality engineers. They may work with procedure writers, procurement managers and resource allocation colleagues. Externally they liaise with customers and suppliers at operational and senior levels. Depending on the industry, they may also interact with regulators.  

An employee in this occupation is responsible for the quality, safety and delivery of service. They ensure that work is delivered to the customer on time at the agreed cost. They must ensure their own work and the work of others is completed to specification.  They must meet set deadlines. They must meet quality requirements and ensure that all relevant records are completed. They must work to health and safety and environmental regulations. They work alone and as part of a larger team on complex technical issues. These include supervisory duties and oversight of work completed. Depending on organisation size, they will support or lead a maintenance team.  They are responsible for complying with regulatory and organisation requirements, civil or military as appropriate. For example, Office of Nuclear Regulation (ONR), Department of Environment, Maritime Pollution regulations (MARPOL).  Health and Safety at Work Act, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER).  United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) and the National Measurement Accreditation Service (NAMAS).

Typical job titles include:

Installation technician Process technician Production support technician Senior maintenance technician Test and commissioning technician

Duties

  • Duty 1 Define and implement safety control measures appropriate to each maintenance activity informing the relevant people. Ensure the safe and efficient performance of every maintenance task in compliance with these measures.
  • Duty 2 Collate, interpret and analyse all technical information. For example, work procedures, design briefs, and maintenance manuals. Operating specifications, maintenance equipment calibration records, asset performance and calibration data.
  • Duty 3 Plan maintenance activities to guide the maintenance team. Ensure that work instructions, permits, and safety briefings are available in advance of maintenance activities. Ensure that operating procedures, contact details for relevant people, materials and resources are available.
  • Duty 4 Lead or undertake maintenance, modifications, repairs, upgrades, alterations and additions to systems, plant and equipment. Provide technical and team leadership, where appropriate, to complete maintenance activities.
  • Duty 5 Carry out inspection activities on equipment. For example, pressures, flows, temperatures, installation checks, material state and feasibility studies.
  • Duty 6 Inform teams of any significant maintenance and engineering technical issues as they occur. Provide technical and team leadership, advice and guidance as needed.
  • Duty 7 Liaise with internal and external stakeholders ensuring that engineering and maintenance operations meet agreed timescales. Examples of stakeholders could include asset managers, equipment operatives, auditors, suppliers, customers.
  • Duty 8 Deal with problems that occur within the activity using a structured and controlled approach. For example, unexpected technical or process issues, team related issues, escalating as required.
  • Duty 9 Generate documentation on completion of maintenance work to provide a complete record of the activity. Forward information required to support future asset maintenance planning. For example, test forms, defect reports, service records and handover reports.
  • Duty 10 Review engineering and maintenance procedures identifying potential improvements to processes, materials, resources or planning. For example, improvements on costs, efficiencies and quality.

Apprenticeship summary

ST0999, lead engineering maintenance technician level 4


This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.

Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA. 

The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 36 months. The EPA period is typically 6 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

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

EPA gateway

The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.



The gateway requirements for your EPA are:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the project report and presentation with questions, you must submit a 500-word project brief and agree the project title and scope with the EPAO

  • for the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, you must submit a portfolio of evidence

  • passed any other qualifications listed in the occupational standard. For the lead engineering maintenance technician,
    the qualification required is:   L4 HNC in Engineering and manufacturing maintenance disciplines that fully aligns with the KSBs.

Assessment methods




Project with report

You will complete a project and write a report. The title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO at the gateway. The report should be a maximum of 5000 words (with a 10% tolerance).

You will have 13 weeks to complete the project and submit the business case 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 45 minutes. The independent assessor will ask at least 4 questions about the project and presentation. The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.




Professional discussion

You will have a professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 7 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.


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

Who to contact for help or more information

You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.



You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.

You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.


Reasonable adjustments


If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.


Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with The Institution of Engineering and Technology for Engineering Technician (EngTech)

Please contact the professional body for more details.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the engineering and manufacturing sector. Sectors typically include maritime, maritime defence, automotive, energy, engineering construction and general engineering maintenance industries. Lead maintenance engineering technicians typically perform a multi-disciplinary role, managing or leading other technicians. They may specialise in areas such as mechanical, electronic, or electrical engineering. Employers range from small to large businesses who deliver or require maintenance support. They include major asset owners and operators, the supply chain, contractors and sub-contractors. Typical workplaces include private and public sector manufacturing factories. They can also include dockyards and shipyards, vehicle maintenance facilities, onboard operational vehicles and vessels.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to offer engineering support, technical leadership and expertise.  Examples can include support for installation, refit, overhaul, alteration, upgrading, design and maintenance. They can also provide support for testing of significant assets, systems or machinery. They assist in the delivery of complex and critical asset management programmes. These asset management programmes are often to unique specifications involving complex maintenance and planning. They analyse technical information, plan schedules, co-ordinate, lead and deliver work on time. They ensure work is completed to the required quality, following product and personnel safety processes. They provide customer liaison, leadership, support and expertise to maintenance teams on technical issues. They deal with problems that occur using a structured and controlled approach. They carry out inspections on systems, equipment and components. They may lead on the commissioning back into operation after maintenance and overhaul. They can work in office environments while conducting research or maintenance design and scheduling activities. They can be in a workshop environment or outdoors conducting maintenance and commissioning activities. Depending on the organisation, they might be expected to work flexibly, including shift work.  They may also be ‘on-call’, to meet customer requirements.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with operators and maintenance teams.  They also interact with shift leaders, senior engineers, senior test engineers, design engineers, quality engineers. They may work with procedure writers, procurement managers and resource allocation colleagues. Externally they liaise with customers and suppliers at operational and senior levels. Depending on the industry, they may also interact with regulators.  

An employee in this occupation is responsible for the quality, safety and delivery of service. They ensure that work is delivered to the customer on time at the agreed cost. They must ensure their own work and the work of others is completed to specification.  They must meet set deadlines. They must meet quality requirements and ensure that all relevant records are completed. They must work to health and safety and environmental regulations. They work alone and as part of a larger team on complex technical issues. These include supervisory duties and oversight of work completed. Depending on organisation size, they will support or lead a maintenance team.  They are responsible for complying with regulatory and organisation requirements, civil or military as appropriate. For example, Office of Nuclear Regulation (ONR), Department of Environment, Maritime Pollution regulations (MARPOL).  Health and Safety at Work Act, Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER).  United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) and the National Measurement Accreditation Service (NAMAS).

Typical job titles include:

Installation technician Process technician Production support technician Senior maintenance technician Test and commissioning technician

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set their own recruitment and selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. In order to optimise success, candidates will typically have already completed a Level 3 vocational qualification in engineering, or hold A levels in maths and science subjects, or relevant T levels.

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Define and implement safety control measures appropriate to each maintenance activity informing the relevant people. Ensure the safe and efficient performance of every maintenance task in compliance with these measures.

K1 K2 K7 K9 K11 K15 K16 K19 K21 K22

S1 S2 S4 S5 S11 S13 S19 S20 S22

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 B7

Duty 2 Collate, interpret and analyse all technical information. For example, work procedures, design briefs, and maintenance manuals. Operating specifications, maintenance equipment calibration records, asset performance and calibration data.

K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K17 K18 K20 K22 K23 K24

S2 S3 S5 S6 S14 S15 S16 S18 S19 S20 S22

B2 B5 B7

Duty 3 Plan maintenance activities to guide the maintenance team. Ensure that work instructions, permits, and safety briefings are available in advance of maintenance activities. Ensure that operating procedures, contact details for relevant people, materials and resources are available.

K1 K2 K4 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K14 K17 K19 K20 K22 K23 K24

S1 S2 S3 S4 S6 S7 S9 S10 S11 S18 S22

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B7

Duty 4 Lead or undertake maintenance, modifications, repairs, upgrades, alterations and additions to systems, plant and equipment. Provide technical and team leadership, where appropriate, to complete maintenance activities.

K2 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K11 K12 K14 K20 K24

S4 S5 S6 S7 S10 S12 S13 S14 S15 S18

B1 B2 B3 B5 B6 B7

Duty 5 Carry out inspection activities on equipment. For example, pressures, flows, temperatures, installation checks, material state and feasibility studies.

K3 K4 K5 K6 K8 K19 K20

S2 S5 S6 S7 S8 S11 S12 S16 S17 S18

B1 B2 B3 B4 B7

Duty 6 Inform teams of any significant maintenance and engineering technical issues as they occur. Provide technical and team leadership, advice and guidance as needed.

K5 K6 K11 K12 K22 K25

S3 S4 S7 S8 S9 S16 S17 S21 S22

B2 B6 B7 B8

Duty 7 Liaise with internal and external stakeholders ensuring that engineering and maintenance operations meet agreed timescales. Examples of stakeholders could include asset managers, equipment operatives, auditors, suppliers, customers.

K10 K11 K12 K13 K19 K22 K23 K24 K25

S3 S4 S7 S8 S9 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S19 S20 S21 S22

B2 B3 B4 B5 B6 B7 B8

Duty 8 Deal with problems that occur within the activity using a structured and controlled approach. For example, unexpected technical or process issues, team related issues, escalating as required.

K2 K5 K6 K10 K11 K12 K14 K19 K21 K22 K24

S3 S4 S7 S8 S9 S16

B2 B5 B6 B7

Duty 9 Generate documentation on completion of maintenance work to provide a complete record of the activity. Forward information required to support future asset maintenance planning. For example, test forms, defect reports, service records and handover reports.

K2 K6 K8 K18 K19 K20 K23

S1 S2 S5 S11 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S22

B2 B3 B4 B7

Duty 10 Review engineering and maintenance procedures identifying potential improvements to processes, materials, resources or planning. For example, improvements on costs, efficiencies and quality.

K2 K11 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23

S2 S5 S7 S8 S13 S17 S19 S20 S22

B2 B3 B4 B7

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Awareness of health and safety regulations, relevant to the occupation and the technician's responsibilities. Health and safety regulations. Back to Duty

K2: Risk identification, risk assessments, mitigations and safe systems of work. Back to Duty

K3: Awareness of environment and sustainability regulations, relevance to the occupation and the technician’s responsibilities. Environment and sustainability. Environmental Protection Act - responsibilities. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Sustainability. Resource Management. Environmental permits. Waste management. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Hazardous waste regulations. Re-cyclable materials and waste disposal procedures. Energy consumption and usage profiling. Data logging to optimise energy performance. The Climate Change Agreements. Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC). Back to Duty

K4: Engineering mathematical techniques and scientific principles: methods, techniques, graphical expressions, symbols, formulae and calculations. Back to Duty

K5: Engineering materials: characteristics, properties and impact on use. Back to Duty

K6: Problem solving techniques: diagnostics, root cause analysis, 6 thinking hats, DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control), PDCA (Plan Do Check Act). Fault finding techniques: root cause analysis, 5 Whys’, fishbone, half-split. Back to Duty

K7: Maintenance and engineering strategies, practices and techniques: planned, preventative, predictive and reactive. Back to Duty

K8: Standard operating procedures and work instructions: rationale, review and updates. Back to Duty

K9: Engineering, manufacturing and maintenance technical information, related documentation, such as job records, service reports, checklists and condemn notices; representations, drawings, graphical information, visuals and symbols. Back to Duty

K10: Manufacturers’ instructions: what they are and how to use them. Warranties: what they are and impact on engineering maintenance work. Back to Duty

K11: Awareness of engineering international, national and regulatory standards, relevance to the occupation and technician’s responsibilities. British Standards (BS). International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN). Back to Duty

K12: The function of an engineering maintenance department. Limits of autonomy and reporting channels. Different teams and functions involved in operation and interdependencies. Back to Duty

K13: Leadership and management techniques: customer relationship management, negotiating, influencing, networking, commercial awareness, conflict management and assertiveness. Back to Duty

K14: Workplace training and development and competence assurance techniques in the workplace. How to pass on knowledge to colleagues and provide guidance to customers or stakeholders. Back to Duty

K15: Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. Work management systems. Work categorisation systems. Back to Duty

K16: Verbal communication techniques: Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Engineering terminology. Back to Duty

K17: Communication techniques: written documentation. Report writing. Back to Duty

K18: The engineering maintenance sector. Regulators. Types of employers. Clients. Supply chain. Stakeholders. Audits. Back to Duty

K19: Resources: Human, physical, space, documentation, tooling, specialist equipment, spares and materials. Stock and services considerations. Back to Duty

K20: Awareness of Quality Management Systems (QMS) and the principles of quality control and assurance, principles and practice in a maintenance and engineering environment. Relevance to the occupation and the technician’s responsibilities. Back to Duty

K21: Continuous improvement techniques: lean, 6-sigma, KAIZEN, 5S (Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain). Back to Duty

K22: Project management techniques: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT), stakeholder matrices, risk mapping and summary risk profiles. Back to Duty

K23: Information technology: Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, email, virtual communication and learning platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Documentation and data collection: principles, methods and requirements - electronic and paper. Analytical data, job records, timekeeping, service reports, checklists and condemn notices. Technological development and innovation in the engineering sector. Industry 4.0. IT networking and digital twinning. Back to Duty

K24: Business operation considerations: efficiency, customer satisfaction, competitiveness, minimising risks to operation, finance, business ethics and licenses. Back to Duty

K25: Equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Apply safe systems of work. Back to Duty

S2: Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures when using resources. Segregate resources for re-use, recycling and disposal applying sustainability principles. Back to Duty

S3: Follow manufacturers’ instructions and standard maintenance procedures. Back to Duty

S4: Identify and document risks and hazards in the workplace. Advise on and apply control measures. Back to Duty

S5: Record or enter information - paper based or electronic. For example, job sheets, risk assessments, equipment service records, test results, handover documents and manufacturers' documentation, asset management records, work sheets, checklists, waste environmental records and any legal reporting requirements. Back to Duty

S6: Plan and schedule tasks, projects or resources in the workplace. Back to Duty

S7: Manage tasks, projects or resources in the workplace. Back to Duty

S8: Evaluate tasks, projects or resources in the workplace. Back to Duty

S9: Communicate with colleagues and stakeholders verbally. Back to Duty

S10: Communicate in writing. Back to Duty

S11: Negotiate with colleagues or stakeholders. For example, to access equipment or arrange system outage. Back to Duty

S12: Identify potential conflicts and apply resolution strategies. Back to Duty

S13: Identify training needs of team members in the workplace. Back to Duty

S14: Provide technical leadership for maintenance practices and techniques. Back to Duty

S15: Provide technical leadership for repair practices and techniques. Back to Duty

S16: Provide technical leadership for fault finding techniques and practices. Back to Duty

S17: Identify problems and apply methods to identify causes and solutions. Escalate issues or concerns. Back to Duty

S18: Comply with engineering standards and regulations. For example, ISO9001. Back to Duty

S19: Interpret and use information from engineering data sources to apply changes. Back to Duty

S20: Lead on continuous improvement projects. Apply continuous improvement techniques. Devise suggestions for improvement. Back to Duty

S21: Manage technical handover of completed repair or maintenance activity. Back to Duty

S22: Use information technology. For example, for document creation, communication, and information management in line with breakdown, repair and maintenance activities. Comply with GDPR. Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Prioritise and promote the environment and sustainability. Back to Duty

B2: Prioritise and promote health and safety. Back to Duty

B3: Apply a professional approach. Back to Duty

B4: Promote adoption of emerging and advanced engineering and maintenance technologies. Back to Duty

B5: Commit to professional development of self and others. Back to Duty

B6: Take responsibility for work. Back to Duty

B7: Act ethically. Back to Duty

B8: Collaborate within teams, across disciplines and external stakeholders. Back to Duty

Qualifications

English and Maths

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

Other mandatory qualifications

L4 HNC in Engineering and manufacturing maintenance disciplines that fully aligns with the KSBs.

Level: 4

Apprentices would be at significant disadvantage in the labour market without an HNC or similar level qualification.

Professional recognition

This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:

  • The Institution of Engineering and Technology for Engineering Technician (EngTech)
Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.1

Introduction and overview

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

Lead engineering maintenance technician apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

A full-time lead engineering maintenance technician apprentice typically spends 36 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 6 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 - project report and presentation with questions:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

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

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

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

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme - typically 36 months

The apprentice must complete training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) of the occupational standard.

The apprentice must complete training towards English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

The apprentice must complete training towards any other qualifications listed in the occupational standard.

The qualification required is:

L4 HNC in Engineering and manufacturing maintenance disciplines that fully aligns with the KSBs.

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence.

End-point assessment gateway

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

The apprentice must:

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

  • have passed L4 HNC in Engineering and manufacturing maintenance disciplines that fully aligns with the KSBs.

For the project report and presentation with questions, the apprentice must submit a 500-word project brief and agree the project title and scope with the EPAO. 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 of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.

Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.

End-point assessment - typically 6 months

Grades available for each assessment method:

Project report and presentation with questions

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction
Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with The Institution of Engineering and Technology for Engineering Technician (EngTech).

The apprenticeship will either wholly or partially satisfy the requirements for registration at this level.

Duration of end-point assessment period

The EPA will be taken within the EPA period. The EPA period begins when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements are met and is typically 6 months.

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

EPA gateway

The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.

The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.

They must:

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

  • have passed L4 HNC in Engineering and manufacturing maintenance disciplines that fully aligns with the KSBs.

  • submit a 500-word project brief and agree the project title and scope with the EPAO for the project report and presentation with questions

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

Portfolio of evidence requirements:

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain 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:

  • workplace documentation and records
  • workplace policies and procedures
  • witness statements
  • annotated photographs
  • video clips (maximum total duration 5 minutes); the apprentice must be in view and identifiable

This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.

The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.

The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the discussion. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the discussion. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.

Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.

Order of assessment methods

The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.

The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.

Project report and presentation with questions

Overview

A project involves the apprentice completing a significant and defined piece of work that has a real business application and benefit. The project must start after the apprentice has gone through the gateway. It gives 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 report
  • presentation with questions

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because

• it is a holistic assessment method, allowing the apprentice to demonstrate KSBs in an integrated way

• it allows for a range of lead engineering maintenance activities to be demonstrated

• it provides a cost-effective assessment, as it minimises independent assessor time and makes use of the apprentice’s employer’s workplace, equipment and resources, and should contribute to workplace productivity.

Component 1: Project report

Delivery

The project report 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:

  • a specific problem
  • a recurring issue
  • an idea or opportunity

The project must include a maintenance, fault finding and repair related activity. It can be a desk study or a site-based project. It must explore technical leadership in maintenance concepts and practices in depth, and cover the following assessment themes:

  • health and safety: implementing health and safety policies, risk assessment
  • procedures and work instructions: following manufacturers' instructions, standard maintenance procedures
  • task management: planning and scheduling tasks, managing tasks, evaluating tasks
  • problem solving: problem identification, application of methods to identify cause and solutions to problem, interpretation of engineering data applied to changes

  • technical leadership: technical leadership of maintenance, repair and fault finding practices and techniques

  • communication: written communication techniques (informal and formal)

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 after the gateway. They must complete and submit the to the EPAO by the end of weekreport 13 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 output 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 output(s) is the apprentice’s own work when it is submitted.

The report must include at least:

  • a 200-word executive summary
  • an introduction
  • the scope of the project (including key performance indicators, aims and objectives)
  • project plan that includes stakeholder considerations and a brief rationale of how the aims and objectives will be met. This must include consideration of the maintenance method i.e. planned, preventative, predictive and reactive.
  • data analysis outcomes
  • project outcomes
  • recommendations and conclusions
  • references
  • appendix containing mapping of KSBs in the report

The project report has a word count of 5000 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.

Component 2: Presentation with questions

Delivery

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 independent assessor must ask questions after the presentation. The presentation must include:

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

The 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 13 of the EPA period.

The apprentice must notify the EPAO, at that point, of any technical requirements for the presentation. During the presentation, the apprentice must have access to:

  • audio-visual presentation equipment
  • flip chart and writing and drawing materials
  • computer
  • any other requirements previously notified to the EPAO.

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 2 weeks 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 independent assessor's questions will be to assess the following themes:

  • health and safety
  • procedures and work instructions
  • task management
  • problem solving
  • technical leadership
  • communication

The independent assessor's questions will also:

  • seek clarification on the report or presentation
  • verify that the project is the apprentice’s own work
  • assess the depth and breadth of knowledge, skills and behaviours

The presentation and questions must last 45 minutes. This will typically include a presentation of 20 minutes and questioning lasting 25 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 KSBs demonstrated in the report and presentation
  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved 

Assessment location

The presentation with questions must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAOs 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.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO 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.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the project report and presentation with questions:

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

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

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Overview

In the discussion, an independent assessor and apprentice have a formal two-way conversation.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate their competency across the KSBs mapped to this EPA method.

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because:

• it allows for assessment of KSBs that do not occur on predicable or regular basis and may not naturally be assessed as part of the project

• it allows for testing of responses where there are a range of potential answers depending on the context of the apprentice’s workplace

• it is a cost effective, as apart from a venue it does not require additional resources.

Delivery

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 assess the following themes:

  • health and safety
  • environment and sustainability
  • people management
  • engineering standards
  • continuous improvement
  • handovers
  • information technology

The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks 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 7 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 apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved 

Assessment location

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

The professional discussion can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.

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

Question and resource development

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 of evidence:

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

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

Grading

Project report and presentation with questions

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Health and safety
K2 S4 B2

Undertakes risk assessment and completes documentation in compliance with regulations and company policy. Advises on and implements risk mitigation measures to promote and prioritise health and safety within the workplace. (K2, S4, B2)

 

 

None.

Procedures and work instructions
K10 S3

Determines which manufacturer’s instructions and standard operating procedures should be followed for the project and considers the impact of warranties on work. (K10, S3)

None.

 

 

Task management
K5 K7 K15 K19 K22 S6 S7 S8

Outlines the planning and scheduling tasks to meet the project brief considering:

• engineering materials (characteristics, properties and impact on use)

• maintenance and engineering strategies, practices and techniques (planned, preventative, predictive and reactive)

• resources (human, physical, space, documentation, tooling, specialist equipment, spares and materials, stock and services). (K5, K7, K19, S6)

Applies selected project management techniques to:

• deliver outcomes (including SWOT, stakeholder matrices, risk mapping and summary risk profiles) 

• plan and prioritises tasks 

• use (where appropriate) work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques, work management and or categorisation systems. (K15, K22, S7)

Evaluates the workplace engineering maintenance tasks undertaken for the project. (S8)

Analyses their planning and scheduling of resources to identify areas of improvement to benefit the business. (K15, K19, S6)

Evaluates their own management of tasks, projects or resources, including the techniques, timescales and tools used. (K22, S7)

Problem solving
K4 K6 S17 S19

Applies problem solving techniques in line with the project brief to identify specific causes and solutions, escalating issues or concerns within the scope of their responsibility. (K6, S17)

Interprets engineering data and applies mathematical and scientific principles to decision making to achieve project objectives. (K4, S19) 

Analyses their choice of applied problem-solving techniques, identifying the benefits and risks to meeting the project objectives. (K6, S17)

Justifies their choice of mathematical and scientific principles to interpret data and inform decision making within the project delivery. (K4, S19)

Technical leadership
K8 K9 S14 S15 S16

Provides technical leadership, to complete maintenance, fault-finding and repair tasks in line with the project brief, considering:

 

• the engineering practices and techniques used

 

• the standard operating procedures and work instructions followed

 

• the selection and use of technical documents and recording of information

(K8, K9, S14, S15, S16)

 

Justifies their technical leadership approach to completing tasks and maintaining documents, explaining how this supports business objectives. (K8, S14, S15, S16)

 

 

Communication
K17 S10

Uses written communication techniques suitable for the context, adapting style and use of terminology to suit the audience. Uses sector and industry terminology correctly. (K17, S10)

None.

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Health and safety
K1 S1

Describes how they select and apply health and safety regulations appropriate to the task, their occupation, and technician’s responsibilities, complying with safe systems of work in line with company policies. (K1, S1)

Analyses the extent to which adhering to safe systems of work and health and safety regulations impacts on workplace schedules and maintenance procedures. (K1, S1)

Environment and sustainability
K3 S2 B1

Analyses the extent to which the re-use, recycling and disposal of resources within the company is in line with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. (K3, S2, B1)

Evaluates how current working practices in their role prioritise and promote the environment and sustainability. (K3, S2, B1)

People management
K12 K13 K14 K16 K25 S9 S11 S12 S13 B3 B5 B7 B8

Describes how they select and apply verbal communication techniques appropriate to the audience, using the correct engineering terminology and delivered by applying a professional approach in line with company policies and procedures. (K16, S9, B3)

Justifies their choice of leadership and management technique when dealing with customer relations, negotiation, influencing, networking, commercial awareness, conflict resolution and assertiveness in line with the ethical standards set out in company policies and procedures. (K13, S11, S12, B7) 

Outlines the functions of their engineering maintenance department, the limits of their autonomy, identifies reporting channels, collaborates with departmental teams, other disciplines and external stakeholders.  (K12, B8)

Explains how they identify the training needs of team members in the workplace and establish an approach to co-worker’s workplace training and competence assurance which is in line with organisational guidelines and policies on equality, diversity and inclusion. Assumes responsibility for their own personal development and shares expertise gained to build the capability of colleagues within their team. (K14, K25, S13, B5)

 

Analyses the techniques they use to overcome issues faced during negotiations or conflict resolution, explaining the impact these have on the business. (K13, S11, S12)

Analyses the impact professional development of themselves and others has on business performance. (K14, S13, B5)

 

Engineering Standards
K11 K18 K20 S18

Outlines the structure of the engineering maintenance sector, has an awareness of quality control and management systems and compliance with regulatory standards, applying them to a maintenance environment specific to their role. (K11, K18, K20, S18)

 

Evaluates how compliance with engineering standards and or regulations impacts business outcomes. (K11, K18, K20, S18)

Continuous improvement
K21 S20

Leads continuous improvement projects and applies continuous improvement techniques to these including lean, 6-sigma, KAIZEN, and 5S, outlining suggestions for improvement. (K21, S20)

Evaluates the impact of suggestions from a continuous improvement project on either maintenance procedures and or business outcomes. (K21, S20)

 

Handovers
K24 S21 B6

Analyses business operation considerations, including efficiency, customer satisfaction, competitiveness, minimising risks to operation, finance, business ethics and licenses with respect to their role. Manages the technical handover of repair and or maintenance activities taking responsibility for the quality of finished work in line with company policies and procedures. (K24, S21, B6)

None.

Information technology
K23 S5 S22 B4

Outlines their use of information technology to record or enter information including MIS, spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, email, virtual communication and learning platforms, for documentation and data collection, collecting analytical data, job records, timekeeping, service reports, checklists and condemn notices. Applies General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Adheres to company policy to promote technological development and innovation in the engineering maintenance sector including industry 4.0. IT networking and digital twinning. (K23, S5, S22, B4) 

 

 

Evaluates the impact of adopting emerging and advancing engineering and maintenance technologies across workplace activities. (K23, S22)

Overall EPA grading

Performance in the EPA determines the apprenticeship grade of:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction

An independent assessor must individually grade the: project report and presentation with questions and professional discussion 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 or more assessment methods, 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, apprentices must achieve a pass in one assessment method and a distinction in the other assessment method. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, apprentices 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 and presentation with questions Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence Overall Grading
Any grade Fail Fail
Fail Any grade Fail
Pass Pass Pass
Pass Distinction Merit
Distinction Pass Merit
Distinction Distinction Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

An apprentice who fails one or more assessment method(s) 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.

An 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 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.

An apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.

Roles and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

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

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

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

EPAO

As a minimum, the EPAO must:

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

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must:

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

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must:

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

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

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

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

Internal quality assurance

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

The EPAO must also:

  • have quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent EPA regardless of employer, place, time or independent assessor
  • appoint independent assessors who are competent to deliver the EPA and who:
    • have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 4 gained in the last 3 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector
  • operate induction training for anyone involved in the delivery or assessment of the EPA
  • provide training for independent assessors in good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and making grading decisions
  • provide ongoing training for markers and invigilators
  • provide standardisation activity for this apprenticeship standard for all independent assessors:
    • before they conduct an EPA for the first time
    • if the EPA is updated
    • periodically as appropriate (a minimum of annually)
  • conduct effective moderation of EPA decisions and grades
  • conduct appeals where required, according to the EPAO’s appeals procedure, reviewing and making final decisions on EPA decisions and grades
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider.

Value for money

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

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

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with:

The Institution of Engineering and Technology for Engineering Technician (EngTech)

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

Awareness of health and safety regulations, relevant to the occupation and the technician's responsibilities. Health and safety regulations.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K2

Risk identification, risk assessments, mitigations and safe systems of work.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K3

Awareness of environment and sustainability regulations, relevance to the occupation and the technician’s responsibilities. Environment and sustainability. Environmental Protection Act - responsibilities. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Sustainability. Resource Management. Environmental permits. Waste management. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Hazardous waste regulations. Re-cyclable materials and waste disposal procedures. Energy consumption and usage profiling. Data logging to optimise energy performance. The Climate Change Agreements. Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC).

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K4

Engineering mathematical techniques and scientific principles: methods, techniques, graphical expressions, symbols, formulae and calculations.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K5

Engineering materials: characteristics, properties and impact on use.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K6

Problem solving techniques: diagnostics, root cause analysis, 6 thinking hats, DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control), PDCA (Plan Do Check Act). Fault finding techniques: root cause analysis, 5 Whys’, fishbone, half-split.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K7

Maintenance and engineering strategies, practices and techniques: planned, preventative, predictive and reactive.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K8

Standard operating procedures and work instructions: rationale, review and updates.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K9

Engineering, manufacturing and maintenance technical information, related documentation, such as job records, service reports, checklists and condemn notices; representations, drawings, graphical information, visuals and symbols.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K10

Manufacturers’ instructions: what they are and how to use them. Warranties: what they are and impact on engineering maintenance work.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K11

Awareness of engineering international, national and regulatory standards, relevance to the occupation and technician’s responsibilities. British Standards (BS). International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN).

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

The function of an engineering maintenance department. Limits of autonomy and reporting channels. Different teams and functions involved in operation and interdependencies.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K13

Leadership and management techniques: customer relationship management, negotiating, influencing, networking, commercial awareness, conflict management and assertiveness.

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

Workplace training and development and competence assurance techniques in the workplace. How to pass on knowledge to colleagues and provide guidance to customers or stakeholders.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K15

Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. Work management systems. Work categorisation systems.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K16

Verbal communication techniques: Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Engineering terminology.

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

Communication techniques: written documentation. Report writing.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K18

The engineering maintenance sector. Regulators. Types of employers. Clients. Supply chain. Stakeholders. Audits.

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

Resources: Human, physical, space, documentation, tooling, specialist equipment, spares and materials. Stock and services considerations.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K20

Awareness of Quality Management Systems (QMS) and the principles of quality control and assurance, principles and practice in a maintenance and engineering environment. Relevance to the occupation and the technician’s responsibilities.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K21

Continuous improvement techniques: lean, 6-sigma, KAIZEN, 5S (Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain).

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K22

Project management techniques: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT), stakeholder matrices, risk mapping and summary risk profiles.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
K23

Information technology: Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, email, virtual communication and learning platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Documentation and data collection: principles, methods and requirements - electronic and paper. Analytical data, job records, timekeeping, service reports, checklists and condemn notices. Technological development and innovation in the engineering sector. Industry 4.0. IT networking and digital twinning.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K24

Business operation considerations: efficiency, customer satisfaction, competitiveness, minimising risks to operation, finance, business ethics and licenses.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K25

Equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

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

Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Apply safe systems of work.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S2

Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures when using resources. Segregate resources for re-use, recycling and disposal applying sustainability principles.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S3

Follow manufacturers’ instructions and standard maintenance procedures.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S4

Identify and document risks and hazards in the workplace. Advise on and apply control measures.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S5

Record or enter information - paper based or electronic. For example, job sheets, risk assessments, equipment service records, test results, handover documents and manufacturers' documentation, asset management records, work sheets, checklists, waste environmental records and any legal reporting requirements.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S6

Plan and schedule tasks, projects or resources in the workplace.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S7

Manage tasks, projects or resources in the workplace.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S8

Evaluate tasks, projects or resources in the workplace.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S9

Communicate with colleagues and stakeholders verbally.

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

Communicate in writing.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S11

Negotiate with colleagues or stakeholders. For example, to access equipment or arrange system outage.

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

Identify potential conflicts and apply resolution strategies.

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

Identify training needs of team members in the workplace.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S14

Provide technical leadership for maintenance practices and techniques.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S15

Provide technical leadership for repair practices and techniques.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S16

Provide technical leadership for fault finding techniques and practices.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S17

Identify problems and apply methods to identify causes and solutions. Escalate issues or concerns.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S18

Comply with engineering standards and regulations. For example, ISO9001.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S19

Interpret and use information from engineering data sources to apply changes.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
S20

Lead on continuous improvement projects. Apply continuous improvement techniques. Devise suggestions for improvement.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S21

Manage technical handover of completed repair or maintenance activity.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S22

Use information technology. For example, for document creation, communication, and information management in line with breakdown, repair and maintenance activities. Comply with GDPR.

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

Prioritise and promote the environment and sustainability.

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

Prioritise and promote health and safety.

Back to Grading
Project report and presentation with questions
B3

Apply a professional approach.

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

Promote adoption of emerging and advanced engineering and maintenance technologies.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B5

Commit to professional development of self and others.

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

Take responsibility for work.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B7

Act ethically.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B8

Collaborate within teams, across disciplines and external stakeholders.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Project report and presentation with questions

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Health and safety
K2
S4
B2

Risk identification, risk assessments, mitigations and safe systems of work. (K2)

Identify and document risks and hazards in the workplace. Advise on and apply control measures. (S4)

Prioritise and promote health and safety. (B2)

Procedures and work instructions
K10
S3

Manufacturers’ instructions: what they are and how to use them. Warranties: what they are and impact on engineering maintenance work. (K10)

Follow manufacturers’ instructions and standard maintenance procedures. (S3)

None

Task management
K5 K7 K15 K19 K22
S6 S7 S8

Engineering materials: characteristics, properties and impact on use. (K5)

Maintenance and engineering strategies, practices and techniques: planned, preventative, predictive and reactive. (K7)

Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. Work management systems. Work categorisation systems. (K15)

Resources: Human, physical, space, documentation, tooling, specialist equipment, spares and materials. Stock and services considerations. (K19)

Project management techniques: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT), stakeholder matrices, risk mapping and summary risk profiles. (K22)

Plan and schedule tasks, projects or resources in the workplace. (S6)

Manage tasks, projects or resources in the workplace. (S7)

Evaluate tasks, projects or resources in the workplace. (S8)

None

Problem solving
K4 K6
S17 S19

Engineering mathematical techniques and scientific principles: methods, techniques, graphical expressions, symbols, formulae and calculations. (K4)

Problem solving techniques: diagnostics, root cause analysis, 6 thinking hats, DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve, Control), PDCA (Plan Do Check Act). Fault finding techniques: root cause analysis, 5 Whys’, fishbone, half-split. (K6)

Identify problems and apply methods to identify causes and solutions. Escalate issues or concerns. (S17)

Interpret and use information from engineering data sources to apply changes. (S19)

None

Technical leadership
K8 K9
S14 S15 S16

Standard operating procedures and work instructions: rationale, review and updates. (K8)

Engineering, manufacturing and maintenance technical information, related documentation, such as job records, service reports, checklists and condemn notices; representations, drawings, graphical information, visuals and symbols. (K9)

Provide technical leadership for maintenance practices and techniques. (S14)

Provide technical leadership for repair practices and techniques. (S15)

Provide technical leadership for fault finding techniques and practices. (S16)

None

Communication
K17
S10

Communication techniques: written documentation. Report writing. (K17)

Communicate in writing. (S10)

None

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Health and safety
K1
S1

Awareness of health and safety regulations, relevant to the occupation and the technician's responsibilities. Health and safety regulations. (K1)

Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Apply safe systems of work. (S1)

None

Environment and sustainability
K3
S2
B1

Awareness of environment and sustainability regulations, relevance to the occupation and the technician’s responsibilities. Environment and sustainability. Environmental Protection Act - responsibilities. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Sustainability. Resource Management. Environmental permits. Waste management. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Hazardous waste regulations. Re-cyclable materials and waste disposal procedures. Energy consumption and usage profiling. Data logging to optimise energy performance. The Climate Change Agreements. Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC). (K3)

Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures when using resources. Segregate resources for re-use, recycling and disposal applying sustainability principles. (S2)

Prioritise and promote the environment and sustainability. (B1)

People management
K12 K13 K14 K16 K25
S9 S11 S12 S13
B3 B5 B7 B8

The function of an engineering maintenance department. Limits of autonomy and reporting channels. Different teams and functions involved in operation and interdependencies. (K12)

Leadership and management techniques: customer relationship management, negotiating, influencing, networking, commercial awareness, conflict management and assertiveness. (K13)

Workplace training and development and competence assurance techniques in the workplace. How to pass on knowledge to colleagues and provide guidance to customers or stakeholders. (K14)

Verbal communication techniques: Matching style to audience. Barriers in communication and how to overcome them. Engineering terminology. (K16)

Equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. (K25)

Communicate with colleagues and stakeholders verbally. (S9)

Negotiate with colleagues or stakeholders. For example, to access equipment or arrange system outage. (S11)

Identify potential conflicts and apply resolution strategies. (S12)

Identify training needs of team members in the workplace. (S13)

Apply a professional approach. (B3)

Commit to professional development of self and others. (B5)

Act ethically. (B7)

Collaborate within teams, across disciplines and external stakeholders. (B8)

Engineering Standards
K11 K18 K20
S18

Awareness of engineering international, national and regulatory standards, relevance to the occupation and technician’s responsibilities. British Standards (BS). International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN). (K11)

The engineering maintenance sector. Regulators. Types of employers. Clients. Supply chain. Stakeholders. Audits. (K18)

Awareness of Quality Management Systems (QMS) and the principles of quality control and assurance, principles and practice in a maintenance and engineering environment. Relevance to the occupation and the technician’s responsibilities. (K20)

Comply with engineering standards and regulations. For example, ISO9001. (S18)

None

Continuous improvement
K21
S20

Continuous improvement techniques: lean, 6-sigma, KAIZEN, 5S (Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain). (K21)

Lead on continuous improvement projects. Apply continuous improvement techniques. Devise suggestions for improvement. (S20)

None

Handovers
K24
S21
B6

Business operation considerations: efficiency, customer satisfaction, competitiveness, minimising risks to operation, finance, business ethics and licenses. (K24)

Manage technical handover of completed repair or maintenance activity. (S21)

Take responsibility for work. (B6)

Information technology
K23
S5 S22
B4

Information technology: Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, email, virtual communication and learning platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Documentation and data collection: principles, methods and requirements - electronic and paper. Analytical data, job records, timekeeping, service reports, checklists and condemn notices. Technological development and innovation in the engineering sector. Industry 4.0. IT networking and digital twinning. (K23)

Record or enter information - paper based or electronic. For example, job sheets, risk assessments, equipment service records, test results, handover documents and manufacturers' documentation, asset management records, work sheets, checklists, waste environmental records and any legal reporting requirements. (S5)

Use information technology. For example, for document creation, communication, and information management in line with breakdown, repair and maintenance activities. Comply with GDPR. (S22)

Promote adoption of emerging and advanced engineering and maintenance technologies. (B4)

Employers involved in creating the standard: Babcock International Group, BAE Systems, Bromford Housing Association, Cavendish Nuclear, First Group, MVV, Ministry of Defence, Pendennis Shipyard, Royal Navy, RWE Energy, Rolls Royce

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.2 Occupational standard and end-point assessment plan revised. 07/06/2024 Not set Not set
1.1 Occupational standard and end-point assessment plan revised. 23/04/2024 06/06/2024 Not set
1.0 Approved for delivery 20/10/2022 22/04/2024 Not set

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