This apprenticeship standard has been approved for delivery by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. However, starts on the apprenticeship will only be possible once a suitable end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) has obtained Ofqual recognition. Once the EPAO has obtained Ofqual recognition, funding for apprentice starts will be permitted and this message will be removed.

Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST0382
  3. Version: 1.1
  4. Level: 3
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 36 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 4 months
  7. Maximum funding: £27000
  8. Route: Creative and design
  9. Date updated: 09/11/2022
  10. Approved for delivery: 26 September 2017
  11. Lars code: 197
  12. EQA provider: Ofqual is the intended EQA provider
Print apprenticeship summary

Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Design, manufacture and assembly of the components required in a pipe organ.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the cultural, religious, educational, craft/musical instrument making sectors and within entertainment/public venues and domestic settings.   Employers vary from micro businesses to SMEs that will often be engaged in contract work, either directly with the customer or with others throughout the trade or sector.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to use skills and labour for the bespoke fabrication and/or restoration of pipe organs and/or their constituent components.  This includes tuning of pipe organs, re-leathering of bellows, restoring soundboards, working from CAD drawings, polishing, staining and finishing timber, working with hand tools and woodworking machinery, voicing of pipes, cleaning of pipework and working with electrical systems.  Employees in this occupation will work both on-site and in workshops to complete their tasks.  Occasionally they may need to work at heights and are sometimes required to work flexibly to accommodate public events on-site where the work is taking place. 

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other organ builders, reporting to a senior organ builder or the principal builder.  They will work closely with the staff members of the organisations they are contracted by e.g. members of the church.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for the design, manufacture and assembly of the components required in a pipe organ; in putting organ pipes onto speech and tuning them; and in the repair, maintenance and tuning of existing organs. They will be using materials such as wood, leather, tin and lead, and will be primarily working either in a workshop or on site.

Employees will be supervised in the workshop and on-site, working to drawings provided by the principal builder.  Employees would also be expected to perform tuning and maintenance tasks unsupervised.

Organ Builders will be responsible for maintaining their tools and machinery and acting where required to maximise the efficiency of their tools/machinery.

When carrying out restoration or conservation activities, employees must be mindful that materials and techniques used are appropriate to the age and historical context of the instrument. 

Typical job titles include:

Designer General organ builder Organ builder Organ tuner Pipe maker Voicer

Duties

  • Duty 1 Undertake various woodworking and cabinet making tasks such as milling out of timber, finishing, staining and polishing
  • Duty 2 Re-leather bellows and motors
  • Duty 3 Glue timbers and other materials
  • Duty 4 Maintain tools, blades and machinery
  • Duty 5 Restore soundboards and other organ parts
  • Duty 6 Manufacture small components, such as rollerboards and mechanical action parts
  • Duty 7 Manufacture medium-sized components such as concussions, tremulants and roller blinds
  • Duty 8 Work with hand tools and woodworking machinery to manufacture bespoke wooden parts where they are unable to be ordered
  • Duty 9 Clean pipework
  • Duty 10 Make and repair metal pipes
  • Duty 11 Make and repair wooden pipes
  • Duty 12 Tune pipe organs, keeping them in working order dependant on external factors such as temperature and humidity
  • Duty 13 Carry out repairs and maintenance as specified
  • Duty 14 Create technical drawings to ensure all work is carried out to specification within the set tolerances, including wind systems, soundboards and casework
  • Duty 15 Write out cutting lists
  • Duty 16 Carry out fault finding of low voltage electrical systems
  • Duty 17 Undertake voicing and tonal finishing to achieve optimal tone

Apprenticeship summary

ST0382, organ builder level 3

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

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

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

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

The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 36 months. The EPA period is typically 4 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

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

EPA gateway

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

The gateway requirements for your EPA are:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the final project (portative organ) with questioning, the project's title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO and a project summary submitted

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

Assessment methods


Project with a product

You will complete a project and create a product. You will be asked to complete a project. The EPAO will give you suggested project titles.

You will have 4 weeks to complete the project and submit the product to the EPAO.

You will have a question and answer session with an independent assessor to discuss the project. It will last 45 minutes. They will ask at least 5 questions.


Practical assessment with questions

You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 1 hours. They will ask you at least 4 questions.


Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

You will have a professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 10 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 Institute of British Organ Building (IBO) for Corporate (unaccredited or accredited) and Personal (employees of corporates)

Please contact the professional body for more details.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the cultural, religious, educational, craft/musical instrument making sectors and within entertainment/public venues and domestic settings.   Employers vary from micro businesses to SMEs that will often be engaged in contract work, either directly with the customer or with others throughout the trade or sector.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to use skills and labour for the bespoke fabrication and/or restoration of pipe organs and/or their constituent components.  This includes tuning of pipe organs, re-leathering of bellows, restoring soundboards, working from CAD drawings, polishing, staining and finishing timber, working with hand tools and woodworking machinery, voicing of pipes, cleaning of pipework and working with electrical systems.  Employees in this occupation will work both on-site and in workshops to complete their tasks.  Occasionally they may need to work at heights and are sometimes required to work flexibly to accommodate public events on-site where the work is taking place. 

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other organ builders, reporting to a senior organ builder or the principal builder.  They will work closely with the staff members of the organisations they are contracted by e.g. members of the church.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for the design, manufacture and assembly of the components required in a pipe organ; in putting organ pipes onto speech and tuning them; and in the repair, maintenance and tuning of existing organs. They will be using materials such as wood, leather, tin and lead, and will be primarily working either in a workshop or on site.

Employees will be supervised in the workshop and on-site, working to drawings provided by the principal builder.  Employees would also be expected to perform tuning and maintenance tasks unsupervised.

Organ Builders will be responsible for maintaining their tools and machinery and acting where required to maximise the efficiency of their tools/machinery.

When carrying out restoration or conservation activities, employees must be mindful that materials and techniques used are appropriate to the age and historical context of the instrument. 

Typical job titles include:

Designer General organ builder Organ builder Organ tuner Pipe maker Voicer

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Undertake various woodworking and cabinet making tasks such as milling out of timber, finishing, staining and polishing

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K23

S1 S2 S3 S4 S6 S7 S8 S9 S20 S21 S22 S23

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5

Duty 2 Re-leather bellows and motors

K2 K3 K4 K6 K8 K9 K11

S1 S6 S7 S8 S10 S21 S22

B1 B3 B4

Duty 3 Glue timbers and other materials

K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K8 K9 K10 K11

S2 S3 S4 S6 S7 S8 S21 S22

B1 B3

Duty 4 Maintain tools, blades and machinery

K2 K10 K13

S2 S21 S22 S23

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5

Duty 5 Restore soundboards and other organ parts

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K17 K18

S1 S2 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S21 S22

B1 B2 B3

Duty 6 Manufacture small components, such as rollerboards and mechanical action parts

K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K9 K10 K11 K17

S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S10 S18 S19 S21 S22

B1 B2 B4

Duty 7 Manufacture medium-sized components such as concussions, tremulants and roller blinds

K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K9 K10 K11 K17

S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S10 S18 S19 S21 S22

B1 B3

Duty 8 Work with hand tools and woodworking machinery to manufacture bespoke wooden parts where they are unable to be ordered

K2 K3 K4 K5 K8 K9 K10 K11

S2 S3 S4 S6 S7 S8 S21 S22 S23

B1 B3 B4 B5

Duty 9 Clean pipework

K2 K8 K17 K21

S7 S8 S18 S22

B1 B3

Duty 10 Make and repair metal pipes

K2 K3 K4 K7 K8 K9 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15

S2 S3 S5 S7 S8 S13 S14 S15 S16 S21 S22

B1 B2

Duty 11 Make and repair wooden pipes

K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 K10 K11 K13 K14 K15

S2 S3 S6 S7 S8 S12 S14 S15 S16 S21 S22

B1 B2 B3 B4

Duty 12 Tune pipe organs, keeping them in working order dependant on external factors such as temperature and humidity

K1 K9 K19 K21

S1 S8 S16 S17 S18 S19 S21 S23

B1 B2 B3 B5

Duty 13 Carry out repairs and maintenance as specified

K1 K2 K3 K6 K9 K10 K11 K13 K16 K18 K19 K21 K22

S1 S5 S7 S8 S10 S11 S17 S18 S19 S21 S22 S23

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5

Duty 14 Create technical drawings to ensure all work is carried out to specification within the set tolerances, including wind systems, soundboards and casework

K4 K5 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K20

S4 S21 S22 S23

B1 B2 B5 B6

Duty 15 Write out cutting lists

K4 K5 K13 K14 K16 K20

S4 S6 S22 S23

B1 B4

Duty 16 Carry out fault finding of low voltage electrical systems

K2 K16 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22

S5 S8 S11 S17 S22

Duty 17 Undertake voicing and tonal finishing to achieve optimal tone

K4 K7 K15

S8 S14 S15 S16 S21 S22 S23

B1 B3

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Health & safety legislation and regulations in the work environment (in particular those relating to working at height, heavy lifting and noise abatement) Back to Duty

K2: The methods of safe handling of materials and work processes that ensure the safety of self and others Back to Duty

K3: The safe and sustainable disposal of waste materials Back to Duty

K4: Properties, uses and limitations of materials used in organ building Back to Duty

K5: The respective advantages and disadvantages of softwoods and hardwoods Back to Duty

K6: The purposes of different grades of leather Back to Duty

K7: The tonal qualities of pipes made from different metal alloys Back to Duty

K8: Techniques for protecting, moving, handling and storing resources Back to Duty

K9: The key hand and machine tools and equipment used Back to Duty

K10: The principles of how the tools and equipment work, are prepared, maintained and safely used (including how to sharpen chisels and hand planes; the different cutting actions of band, cross-cut and rip-saws) Back to Duty

K11: How the material must be presented to the tools and equipment in each case Back to Duty

K12: The importance of using the right combination of guards when creating mouldings using hand-held and fixed routers Back to Duty

K13: Employer’s quality standards how to apply and monitor including methods of recording work. Back to Duty

K14: The elements and principles applicable to the design of pipe organs Back to Duty

K15: The historical and contemporary contexts of organ building Back to Duty

K16: The different forms of action & mechanisms and how they are developed and applied Back to Duty

K17: The key differences between rebuilding, restoration, conservation and reconstruction and their respective advantages and disadvantages Back to Duty

K18: How to diagnose, analyse and assess for manufacturing and maintenance options Back to Duty

K19: How to diagnose faults (such as electrical or pneumatic actions) during maintenance visits and plan for their repair Back to Duty

K20: Relevant applied mathematics & science (including metric & imperial dimensions/measurements, geometry, lever law, musical theory, acoustics and electric circuitry) Back to Duty

K21: The anticipation of risks and resolution of problems Back to Duty

K22: Knowing when it is appropriate to seek advice from other craft specialists and experts Back to Duty

K23: Technique for staining, polishing and finishing Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Maintain correct standards of health and safety for self and for others, using safe working practices such as when handling heavy components Back to Duty

S2: Prepare and maintain materials, tools and equipment appropriately and safely, always fitting guards to machines as required Back to Duty

S3: Identify and minimise hazards and risks in the working environment, e.g. casting and soldering, or when treating timber with volatile compounds Back to Duty

S4: Create and interpret technical specifications, drawings, and other written and verbal instructions (such as cutting lists, rollerboard layouts and soundboard plantings) Back to Duty

S5: Identify and respond to problems appropriately (including testing and adjustment); seek advice and guidance when appropriate Back to Duty

S6: Select and use the appropriate processes/techniques to undertake organ building tasks from inception to realisation Back to Duty

S7: Select and use correct materials as required by the specific task Back to Duty

S8: Select and use correct tools and equipment as required by the specific task Back to Duty

S9: Construct timber components such as soundboards and wind trunking Back to Duty

S10: Use leather to make pneumatic motors and hinges and gussets in bellows Back to Duty

S11: Connect and test low-voltage electrical equipment Back to Duty

S12: Make wooden pipework Back to Duty

S13: Make metal pipework Back to Duty

S14: Put pipes onto speech and tune them Back to Duty

S15: Lay bearings for tuning Back to Duty

S16: Put individual pipes and complete ranks back into tune Back to Duty

S17: Identify and resolve action faults in existing instruments Back to Duty

S18: Remove and dismantle components safely and systematically Back to Duty

S19: Re-assemble components and test that everything is working properly Back to Duty

S20: Select appropriate stain/polish for finishing woodwork Back to Duty

S21: Applies quality assurance checks throughout the organ building process Back to Duty

S22: Follows policies and procedures; has consistent attention to detail Back to Duty

S23: Communicate and work effectively with others as part of a team Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Takes ownership of work Back to Duty

B2: Committed to continuous professional development Back to Duty

B3: Acts in a professional manner. Be courteous, respectful and professional whether workshop or site-based Back to Duty

B4: Team focussed and works effectively with colleagues and others Back to Duty

B5: Accepts change and is adaptable to meet customer needs Back to Duty

B6: Champions and promotes pipe organ building 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.

Professional recognition

This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:

  • Institute of British Organ Building (IBO) for Corporate (unaccredited or accredited) and Personal (employees of corporates)
Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.1

Introduction and overview

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

Organ builder apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the Education and Skills Funding Agency’s Register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).

A full-time apprentice typically spends 36 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway) working towards competence as a organ builder. All apprentices must spend at least 12 months on-programme. All apprentices must complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules.

This EPA has 3 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are:

Assessment method 1 - final project (portative organ) with questioning:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 2 - practical assessment with questioning:

  • fail
  • pass

Assessment method 3 - professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail
  • pass

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

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme - typically 36 months

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

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

The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence.

End-point assessment gateway

The employer must be content that the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard.

The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think the apprentice:

  • is working at or above the occupational standard as a organ builder
  • has the evidence required to pass the gateway and is ready to take the EPA

The apprentice must have achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

For the final project (portative organ) with questioning, the apprentice must submit the following supporting material: confirmation that they have met the pre prepared material requirements.

For the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence the apprentice must submit a Portfolio of evidence.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.

End-point assessment - typically 4 months

Grades available for each assessment method:

Final project (portative organ) with questioning

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Practical assessment with questioning

  • fail
  • pass

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

  • fail
  • pass

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • distinction
Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with Institute of British Organ Building (IBO) for Corporate (unaccredited or accredited) and Personal (employees of corporates)

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

Re-sits and re-takes
  • Re-take and re-sit grade cap: pass
  • Re-sit timeframe: typically 1 months
  • Re-take timeframe: typically 2 months

Duration of end-point assessment period

The EPA will be taken within the EPA period. The EPA period begins when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements are met and is typically 4 months. The EPA will take place over a period of 4 consecutive days at the training provider premises.

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 confirm that they think their apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard. The apprentice will then enter the gateway. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider(s), but the employer must make the decision.

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

These are:

  • achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the final project (portative organ) with questioning the apprentice must submit confirmation that they have met the pre prepared material

Apprentices should ensure that they have considered the set brief and that the materials for the final project (keys and pipes) are prepared.

  • for the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence the apprentice must submit 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 15 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, for example:
  • workplace policies and procedures
  • witness statements
  • annotated photographs
  • video clips (maximum total duration 10 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.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as 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.

Final project (portative organ) with questioning

Overview

A project involves the apprentice completing a significant and defined piece of work that has a real business application and benefit. The project must start after the apprentice has gone through the gateway.

The final project (portative organ) with questioning must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

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 includes 2 components:

  • project with a project output
  • question and answer session

The project and any components must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade for this assessment method.

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because organ building is a practical role, the final project with questioning is the most valid method of assessing KSBs. This final project with questioning also encapsulates the sub-disciplines which make up the profession of an organ builder and will therefore assess the KSBs defined below in a holistic way.

Component 1: Project with a project output

Delivery

The final project (portative organ) with questioning must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

Apprentices must complete a project based on the following:

build a portative organ (product)


Given the number of apprentices, the EPAO does not need to sign-off each project title before the project starts. The EPAO must instead provide detailed specifications. The specifications must detail what must be included in the project to allow an apprentice to evidence the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade. The EPAO must include suggested project titles to enable the employer to select a project that will meet the EPA’s requirements for their apprentice.

The project output must be in the form of a product. The end product being a complete portative organ.

The apprentice must start the project after the gateway. They must complete and submit the product to the EPAO after a maximum of 4 weeks. The project will be completed at the training provider premises and the EPAO will be informed when the project has been completed. The EPAO will visit the training provider premises to view the completed project. 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 all its components unaided.

The apprentice may work as part of a team which could include technical internal or external support. However, the project output must be the apprentice’s own work and will be 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 product must include at least:

Construction of an organ case, soundboard, actions and bellows

Construction and racking in of pre-constructed pipework

Tuning and regulation of pipework

Finishing application i.e., polishing of case

Wooden and metal pipe making

Hand tool skills.

Practical assessment with questioning

Overview

In a practical assessment, the independent assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by the EPAO. The EPAO decides where it takes place. The test environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. This allows the apprentice to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment.

The practical assessment and responses to questions must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade.

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because it provides the opportunity to demonstrate four specific skills required by the standard which may not be represented in the other assessment methods.

Delivery

The practical assessment with questioning must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

The independent assessor conducts and assesses the practical assessment with questioning.

The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice to ensure quality and rigour they must be as unobtrusive as possible.

The EPAO must give an apprentice 3 weeks notice of the . practical assessment with questioning

The practical assessment with questioning must take 1 hour.

The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with questioning by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.

The practical assessment with questioning cannot be split, other than for comfort breaks or to allow apprentices to move from one location to another. Where breaks occur, they will not count towards the total EPA time.

EPAOs must manage invigilation of the apprentice at during the assessment maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations during the working day.

The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the practical assessment with questioning before it begins. This does not count towards the assessment time.

The independent assessor should observe the following during the practical assessment.

1. laying tuning bearings, the candidate will be asked to lay an equally tempered tuning scale from an octave of slide tuned principal pipes without the assistance of a tuning meter.

2. operating wood-working machinery, the candidate will be asked to set up a spindle moulder and cut a timber profile, following all necessary safety precautions.

3. working with low-voltage transmission circuits, the candidate will be asked to identify and rectify faults in a low-voltage transmission circuit.

4. voicing of reed pipes, the candidate will be required to curve a reed tongue, assemble a reed pipe and match its tuning and regulation to a small group of similar pipes.

These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

Questions must be asked. The purpose of the independent assessor's questions is to test the breadth and depth of knowledge for each task.

Questioning can occur during the practical assessment. The time for questions asked during the practical assessment is included in the overall assessment time.

Independent assessors must ask at least 4 questions during the practical assessment. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessors should ask questions during natural breaks in work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. Follow-up questions are allowed. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training.

The independent assessor can ask questions to clarify answers given by the apprentice. These questions are in addition to the above set number of questions for the practical assessment with questioning and should be kept to a minimum.

The independent assessor must record the KSBs observed, KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions and the grade achieved. The apprentice’s answers to questions must also be recorded.

The independent assessor makes all grading decisions.

Assessment location

The practical assessment with questioning will take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s or employer’s premises). The simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the practical assessment with questioning must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.

Question and resource development

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

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

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 practical assessment with questioning:

  • 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

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Overview

In the discussion, an independent assessor and apprentice have a formal two-way conversation. 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 provides the opportunity to demonstrate a broad range of acquired knowledge, skills and behaviours from the standard. It also provides the opportunity to discuss the evidence contained within the apprentice's portfolio.

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.

The independent assessor conducts and assesses the professional discussion.

The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to discuss the evidence contained within the apprentice's portfolio and the related knowledge, skills and behaviours learnt. In addition, it will investigate the areas of the design and history of the pipe organ which are not able to be assessed within the other practical assessment methods.

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

The independent assessor must have at least 2 week(s) to review the supporting documentation.

The apprentice must have access to their during the professional discussion.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their , however the 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.

For the professional discussion, the independent assessor must ask at least 10 questions. Follow-up questions are allowed. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training. The professional discussion must allow the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method at the highest possible grade.

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

The independent assessor will make all grading decisions.

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

Question and resource development

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

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

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

Grading

Final project (portative organ) with questioning

Fail - does not meet pass criteria

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Health & safety and working environment
K1 S1 S3

In line with Health and Safety requirements maintains good standards for self and others; prepares and maintains materials, tools and equipment S1

Identifies and minimises hazards and risks with equipment and solutions in the working environment.  K1 S3

 

 

N/A

Tools and materials
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9 S2 S7 S8

 

In line with company policies selects prepares uses and maintains materials, tools and equipment, including a key hand safely, fitting guards and disposing of waste materials safely

K2 K9 S2 S7 S8

Explains properties, uses and limitations of materials used in organ building, recognising advantages and advantages of soft wood and hard woods demonstrating an understanding of sustainability and ethical issues at work.

K3 K4 K5 

Shows complete familiarity and dexterity in use of the tools in all their applications, and impact of waste materials on the environment.

 K3 K4 K9 S8

 

 

Quality
S21 S22 B1 B3

Demonstrates professionalism by following policies and procedures; takes ownership and has a consistent attention to detail; applies quality assurance checks throughout the organ building process.

S21 S22 B1 B3

Carries out the work with a consistent and thorough attention to quality and to every detail.

 

S21 S22 B1 B3

 

The manufacture, tuning and maintenance of pipe organs
K23 S9 S10 S12 S13 S14 S20

Construct soundboards, wind trunking, bellows’ hinges and gussets, and both metal and wooden pipework to a satisfactory level; pipes must be satisfactorily put on speech and tuned.

S9 S10 S12 S13 S14

Selects and applies stain/polish technique for finishing woodwork.

 

K23 S20

Constructs the parts of the organ and completes it with confidence and precision having a particular eye for detail in the appearance of the finished product ensuring it is tuned to exacting standards.

S9 S10 S12 S13 S14 S20

Technical interpretation and understanding
K20 S4 S6

Selects and uses processes and techniques to undertake organ building tasks from inception to realisation, adapting to customers’ needs

 

S6

 

Creates and interprets technical specifications, drawings and other written instructions.

 

S4

 

Explains the relevant applied mathematics and scientific theory – lever law, acoustics, musical theory and electric circuitry used when constructing the portative organ.

 

K20

 

Consistently and correctly follows written instruction with a minimum of explanation.

S4 S6 

Practical assessment with questioning

Fail - does not meet pass criteria

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
The manufacture of pipe organs
K11 K21 S11 S18 S19

In line with manufacturing instructions present tools and equipment anticipating risks and resolution to problems to produce a basic timber profile.

K11 K21

In line with health and safety correct rectification of basic faults within a low voltage transmission circuit e.g., a dry joint.

S11 S18 S19

 

The tuning and maintenance of pipe organs
K8 K12 S15 S16 S17

Lays bearings for tuning; puts individual pipes and complete ranks back into tune.

S15 S16

In line with company procedures demonstrates techniques for protecting moving and handling equipment and identifies and resolves action faults in existing instruments; removes and dismantles components safely and systematically; re-assembles and tests that everything is working and stored properly.

K8 K12 S17

 

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Fail - does not meet pass criteria

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
Materials
K6 K7

Describes the different types of leather and explain how they use these.

K6

Describes pipe metal alloys they have worked with and their tonal qualities.

 

K7

Design and history of the pipe organ
K14 K15 K16 K17

Explains the elements and principles applicable to the design of pipe organs and the historical and contemporary contexts of organ building.

K14 K15 K16 K17

 

Professionalism
K13 K22 S5 S23 B4 B6

Explains their organisation’s quality standards and the different methods of recording work.

K13

Describes how they seek advice from experts and demonstrate how they identify and respond to problems using different communication techniques with their colleagues and customers advocating pipe organ building.

K22 S5 S23 B4 B6

 

Self-development
B2

Explains how they show commitment to continued professional development to support progression within organ building industry.

 

B2 

Craftsmanship
K10 K18 K19 B5

Explains the principles of how the tools and equipment are prepared and maintained, including detail of how they sharpen chisels and hand planes; the different cutting actions of ban, cross-cut and rip-saws. 

K10

Explains how they diagnose, analyse and assess for manufacturing and maintenance options, including how they diagnose faults and plan for repair and how they positively adapt to change.

K18 K19 B5

 

 

 

 

Overall EPA grading

The EPA methods contribute equally to the overall EPA grade.

Performance in the EPA will determine the apprenticeship grade of:

    • fail
    • pass
    • distinction

Independent assessors must individually grade the: final project (portative organ) with questioning, practical assessment with questioning and professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence according to the requirements set out in this EPA plan.

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

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

Apprentices must achieve at least a pass in all the EPA methods to get an overall pass. In order to achieve an overall EPA ‘distinction’, apprentices must achieve a distinction in the final project (Portative Organ) assessment method as well as a minimum of a pass in the practical assessment with questioning and professional discussion assessment methods.

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

Final project (portative organ) with questioning Practical assessment with questioning Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence Overall Grading
Fail Any grade Any grade Fail
Any grade Fail Any grade Fail
Any grade Any grade Fail Fail
Pass Pass Pass Pass
Distinction Pass Pass Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

Apprentices who fail one or more EPA method(s) can take a re-sit or a re-take at the employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does.

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

The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 1 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 2 months of the EPA outcome notification.

Failed EPA methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.

Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to apprentices wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.

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

Roles and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

  • participate in and complete on-programme training to meet the KSBs as outlined in the occupational 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
  • meet the gateway requirements 
  • undertake the EPA  

 

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the EPAO and training provider 
  • 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 occupational standard and is ready for EPA 
  • ensure that supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan 
  • liaise with the training provider and EPAO to ensure the EPA is booked in a timely manner

Post-gateway, the employer must: 

  • confirm arrangements with the EPAO for the EPA (who, when, where) in a timely manner (including providing 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 the opportunity for the apprentice to be assessed against the KSBs 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • ensure the apprentice is given sufficient time away from regular duties to prepare for, and complete all post-gateway elements of the EPA, and that any required supervision during this time (as stated within this EPA plan) is in place
  • where the apprentice is assessed in the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the resources used on a regular basis 
  • pass the certificate to the apprentice upon receipt from the EPAO

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 register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO) 
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP) for this apprenticeship 
  • understand the occupational standard 
  • make the EPA contractual arrangements, including agreeing the price of the EPA 
  • develop and produce assessment materials as detailed for each assessment method in this EPA plan 
  • appoint qualified and competent independent assessors in line with the requirements of this EPA plan to conduct assessments and oversee their working 
  • appoint administrators (and invigilators where required) to administer the EPA  
  • provide training for independent assessors in terms of good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and grading 
  • provide information, advice, guidance and documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA 
  • confirm all gateway requirements have been met as quickly as possible 
  • arrange for the EPA to take place, in consultation with the employer 
  • ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary, where the apprentice is not assessed in the workplace 
  • develop and provide assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to stakeholders 
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • have policies and procedures for internal quality assurance (IQA), and maintain records of IQA activity and moderation for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes 
  • deliver induction training for independent assessors, and for invigilators and markers (where used) 
  • undertake standardisation activity on this apprenticeship for an independent assessor before they conduct an EPA for the first time, if the EPA is updated and periodically (a minimum of annually) 
  • manage invigilation of the apprentice to maintain security of the assessment in line with the EPAO’s malpractice policy 
  • verify the identity of the apprentice  
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must: 

  • have the competence to assess the apprentice at the level of this apprenticeship and hold any required qualifications and experience in line with the requirements of the independent assessor as detailed in the IQA section of this EPA plan 
  • understand the occupational standard and the requirements of this EPA 
  • have, maintain and be able to evidence, up-to-date knowledge and expertise of the occupation 
  • deliver the end-point assessment in-line with this EPA plan 
  • comply with the IQA requirements of the EPAO 
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider; in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • attend induction training 
  • attend standardisation events when they start working for the EPAO, before they conduct an EPA for the first time and a minimum of annually for this apprenticeship  
  • assess each assessment method, as determined by the EPA plan  
  • assess the KSBs assigned to each assessment method, as shown in the mapping of KSBs to assessment methods in this EPA plan  
  • make the grading decisions 
  • record and report assessment outcome decisions, for each apprentice, following instructions and using assessment recording documentation provided by the EPAO, in a timely manner 
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 
  • mark open (constructed) test answers accurately according to the EPAO’s mark scheme and procedures 

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must: 

  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the KSBs as listed in the occupational standard 
  • conduct training covering the KSBs agreed as part of the Commitment Statement or the Individual Learning Plan 
  • monitor the apprentice’s progress during any training provider led on-programme learning 
  • advise the employer, upon request, on the apprentice’s readiness for EPA 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA 

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

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

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

Internal quality assurance

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

  • have effective and rigorous quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent EPA regardless of employer, place, time or independent assessor
  • appoint independent assessors who are competent to deliver the EPA and who:
    • have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 3 gained in the last 5 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector
  • operate induction training for anyone involved in the delivery and/or assessment of the EPA
  • provide training for independent assessors in good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and making grading decisions
  • provide ongoing training for markers and invigilators
  • provide standardisation activity for this apprenticeship standard for all independent assessors:
    • before they conduct an EPA for the first time
    • if the EPA is updated
    • periodically as appropriate (a minimum of annually)
  • conduct effective moderation of EPA decisions and grades
  • conduct appeals where required, according to the EPAO’s appeals procedure, reviewing and making final decisions on EPA decisions and grades
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider. In all instances, including when the EPAO is the training provider (for example a higher education institution)

Value for money

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

  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition

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

Institute of British Organ Building (IBO) for Corporate (unaccredited or accredited) and Personal (employees of corporates)

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

Health & safety legislation and regulations in the work environment (in particular those relating to working at height, heavy lifting and noise abatement)

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
K2

The methods of safe handling of materials and work processes that ensure the safety of self and others

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
K3

The safe and sustainable disposal of waste materials

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
K4

Properties, uses and limitations of materials used in organ building

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
K5

The respective advantages and disadvantages of softwoods and hardwoods

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
K6

The purposes of different grades of leather

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

The tonal qualities of pipes made from different metal alloys

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

Techniques for protecting, moving, handling and storing resources

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
K9

The key hand and machine tools and equipment used

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
K10

The principles of how the tools and equipment work, are prepared, maintained and safely used (including how to sharpen chisels and hand planes; the different cutting actions of band, cross-cut and rip-saws)

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

How the material must be presented to the tools and equipment in each case

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
K12

The importance of using the right combination of guards when creating mouldings using hand-held and fixed routers

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
K13

Employer’s quality standards how to apply and monitor including methods of recording work.

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

The elements and principles applicable to the design of pipe organs

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

The historical and contemporary contexts of organ building

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K16

The different forms of action & mechanisms and how they are developed and applied

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

The key differences between rebuilding, restoration, conservation and reconstruction and their respective advantages and disadvantages

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

How to diagnose, analyse and assess for manufacturing and maintenance options

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

How to diagnose faults (such as electrical or pneumatic actions) during maintenance visits and plan for their repair

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

Relevant applied mathematics & science (including metric & imperial dimensions/measurements, geometry, lever law, musical theory, acoustics and electric circuitry)

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
K21

The anticipation of risks and resolution of problems

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
K22

Knowing when it is appropriate to seek advice from other craft specialists and experts

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K23

Technique for staining, polishing and finishing

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
Skill Assessment methods
S1

Maintain correct standards of health and safety for self and for others, using safe working practices such as when handling heavy components

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S2

Prepare and maintain materials, tools and equipment appropriately and safely, always fitting guards to machines as required

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S3

Identify and minimise hazards and risks in the working environment, e.g. casting and soldering, or when treating timber with volatile compounds

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S4

Create and interpret technical specifications, drawings, and other written and verbal instructions (such as cutting lists, rollerboard layouts and soundboard plantings)

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S5

Identify and respond to problems appropriately (including testing and adjustment); seek advice and guidance when appropriate

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

Select and use the appropriate processes/techniques to undertake organ building tasks from inception to realisation

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S7

Select and use correct materials as required by the specific task

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S8

Select and use correct tools and equipment as required by the specific task

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S9

Construct timber components such as soundboards and wind trunking

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S10

Use leather to make pneumatic motors and hinges and gussets in bellows

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S11

Connect and test low-voltage electrical equipment

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
S12

Make wooden pipework

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S13

Make metal pipework

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S14

Put pipes onto speech and tune them

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S15

Lay bearings for tuning

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
S16

Put individual pipes and complete ranks back into tune

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
S17

Identify and resolve action faults in existing instruments

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
S18

Remove and dismantle components safely and systematically

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
S19

Re-assemble components and test that everything is working properly

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questioning
S20

Select appropriate stain/polish for finishing woodwork

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S21

Applies quality assurance checks throughout the organ building process

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S22

Follows policies and procedures; has consistent attention to detail

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
S23

Communicate and work effectively with others as part of a team

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

Takes ownership of work

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
B2

Committed to continuous professional development

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B3

Acts in a professional manner. Be courteous, respectful and professional whether workshop or site-based

Back to Grading
Final project (portative organ) with questioning
B4

Team focussed and works effectively with colleagues and others

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

Accepts change and is adaptable to meet customer needs

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

Champions and promotes pipe organ building

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Final project (portative organ) with questioning

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Health & safety and working environment
K1
S1 S3

Health & safety legislation and regulations in the work environment (in particular those relating to working at height, heavy lifting and noise abatement) (K1)

Maintain correct standards of health and safety for self and for others, using safe working practices such as when handling heavy components (S1)

Identify and minimise hazards and risks in the working environment, e.g. casting and soldering, or when treating timber with volatile compounds (S3)

None

Tools and materials
K2 K3 K4 K5 K9
S2 S7 S8

The methods of safe handling of materials and work processes that ensure the safety of self and others (K2)

The safe and sustainable disposal of waste materials (K3)

Properties, uses and limitations of materials used in organ building (K4)

The respective advantages and disadvantages of softwoods and hardwoods (K5)

The key hand and machine tools and equipment used (K9)

Prepare and maintain materials, tools and equipment appropriately and safely, always fitting guards to machines as required (S2)

Select and use correct materials as required by the specific task (S7)

Select and use correct tools and equipment as required by the specific task (S8)

None

Quality

S21 S22
B1 B3

None

Applies quality assurance checks throughout the organ building process (S21)

Follows policies and procedures; has consistent attention to detail (S22)

Takes ownership of work (B1)

Acts in a professional manner. Be courteous, respectful and professional whether workshop or site-based (B3)

The manufacture, tuning and maintenance of pipe organs
K23
S9 S10 S12 S13 S14 S20

Technique for staining, polishing and finishing (K23)

Construct timber components such as soundboards and wind trunking (S9)

Use leather to make pneumatic motors and hinges and gussets in bellows (S10)

Make wooden pipework (S12)

Make metal pipework (S13)

Put pipes onto speech and tune them (S14)

Select appropriate stain/polish for finishing woodwork (S20)

None

Technical interpretation and understanding
K20
S4 S6

Relevant applied mathematics & science (including metric & imperial dimensions/measurements, geometry, lever law, musical theory, acoustics and electric circuitry) (K20)

Create and interpret technical specifications, drawings, and other written and verbal instructions (such as cutting lists, rollerboard layouts and soundboard plantings) (S4)

Select and use the appropriate processes/techniques to undertake organ building tasks from inception to realisation (S6)

None

Practical assessment with questioning

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
The manufacture of pipe organs
K11 K21
S11 S18 S19

How the material must be presented to the tools and equipment in each case (K11)

The anticipation of risks and resolution of problems (K21)

Connect and test low-voltage electrical equipment (S11)

Remove and dismantle components safely and systematically (S18)

Re-assemble components and test that everything is working properly (S19)

None

The tuning and maintenance of pipe organs
K8 K12
S15 S16 S17

Techniques for protecting, moving, handling and storing resources (K8)

The importance of using the right combination of guards when creating mouldings using hand-held and fixed routers (K12)

Lay bearings for tuning (S15)

Put individual pipes and complete ranks back into tune (S16)

Identify and resolve action faults in existing instruments (S17)

None

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Materials
K6 K7

The purposes of different grades of leather (K6)

The tonal qualities of pipes made from different metal alloys (K7)

None

None

Design and history of the pipe organ
K14 K15 K16 K17

The elements and principles applicable to the design of pipe organs (K14)

The historical and contemporary contexts of organ building (K15)

The different forms of action & mechanisms and how they are developed and applied (K16)

The key differences between rebuilding, restoration, conservation and reconstruction and their respective advantages and disadvantages (K17)

None

None

Professionalism
K13 K22
S5 S23
B4 B6

Employer’s quality standards how to apply and monitor including methods of recording work. (K13)

Knowing when it is appropriate to seek advice from other craft specialists and experts (K22)

Identify and respond to problems appropriately (including testing and adjustment); seek advice and guidance when appropriate (S5)

Communicate and work effectively with others as part of a team (S23)

Team focussed and works effectively with colleagues and others (B4)

Champions and promotes pipe organ building (B6)

Self-development


B2

None

None

Committed to continuous professional development (B2)

Craftsmanship
K10 K18 K19

B5

The principles of how the tools and equipment work, are prepared, maintained and safely used (including how to sharpen chisels and hand planes; the different cutting actions of band, cross-cut and rip-saws) (K10)

How to diagnose, analyse and assess for manufacturing and maintenance options (K18)

How to diagnose faults (such as electrical or pneumatic actions) during maintenance visits and plan for their repair (K19)

None

Accepts change and is adaptable to meet customer needs (B5)

Find an apprenticeship

Contact us about this apprenticeship

Employers involved in creating the standard: Mander Organ Builders Ltd, Henry Willis & Sons Ltd, Organ Design Ltd, Nicholson & Co. Ltd, Harrison & Harrison, Goetze & Gwynn, Institute of British Organ Building

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.1 End-point assessment plan, standard and funding band revised. 07/06/2022 Not set Not set
1.0 Approved for delivery 26/09/2017 06/06/2022 Not set

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