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 joined the Apprenticeship Provider and Assessment Register (APAR). Once the EPAO has joined the APAR, funding for apprentice starts will be permitted and this message will be removed.
Initiate and lead programmes and projects which use location to link, analyse and gain insight from multiple datasets.
This occupation is found in public and private sector organisations working to address complex problems in which understanding location is essential. A Spatial Data Specialist uses Geographic Information Systems and other geographic technologies to capture, manage, represent, measure and analyse location data and monitor their changes over space and time. They use advanced spatial analysis and modelling to produce maps, visualisations and other communications to represent and explain relationships between location and other data. Understanding and analysing location data is a complex and specialised task. Location data analysis, spatial modelling, digital mapping and visualisation have developed through Geography and Geographic Information Science, a field of research and professional practice that stands alone from data science and data analysis. They may help organisations achieve net zero carbon emissions by identifying how location specific factors have an impact. This information can help inform strategies for good management of natural resources and environments. They may inform decision making on major infrastructure projects and provide analysis that helps to address geohazards and other risks. Their interpretation of location information may help businesses plan efficient and sustainable supply chains or provide services to communities. Their insight supports specialists in other fields to make decisions in location-sensitive ways. Depending on the sector a Spatial Data Specialist may work with a range of people. These could include environment and infrastructure managers, engineers, data scientists, planners, architects, IT professionals, insurance and risk managers, sustainability professionals, and policy makers. The Spatial Data Specialist always pays attention to the ethics, risks, limits or biases of their data and analysis when giving their insights.
The occupation initiates and leads programmes and projects which use location as the ‘golden thread’ to link, analyse and gain insight from multiple datasets. They enable stakeholders to gain greater value, insight and further opportunities from all their data by linking it to the real world. This is especially applicable to the green economy, in addressing the challenges of net zero and climate change, and in addressing inequality. For example such as green building, smart cities, noise mapping, air quality modelling and ecological assessments.
A Spatial Data Specialist differs from a data scientist in how they approach a problem. While a data scientist could identify a link between environment and health, a Spatial Data Specialist will also show you where those links have a large or small impact.
An employee in this occupation interacts with a broad range of people, often in multi-disciplinary teams. They provide location-based analysis, mapping, visualisation and insight to specialists in other fields across their organisation and sector. They may also work with external partners such as local and international businesses, governments, regulators, and academic research scientists. They are often asked to create maps and visualisations that communicate complex data for non-technical and public audiences.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for delivering advanced spatial analysis, mapping, visualisation and insight. They will use accurate, current and well-structured collections of location data, primarily in Geographic Information Systems. They will interpret stakeholder needs and business requirements to select the most appropriate data and, spatial methods. They will produce location information analysis and products that will engage customers or stakeholders, organise and represent complex information and help solve business problems. They will provide technical authority regarding the legal, safe, secure, effective and ethical uses of location data. They will lead the adoption of international and national location data standards, frameworks and best practices at project and organisational levels. Spatial Data Specialists normally report to senior managers and decision-makers.
This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 24 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.
The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.
The gateway requirements for your EPA are:
For the spatial data specialist, the qualification required is:
L7 Spatial data
Practical assessment with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 3.5 hours. They will ask you at least 3 questions.
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have a professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 90 minutes. They will ask you at least 12 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You can use it to help answer the questions.
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.
This apprenticeship aligns with Royal Geographical Society for Fellow of Royal Geographical Society
Please contact the professional body for more details.
This occupation is found in public and private sector organisations working to address complex problems in which understanding location is essential. A Spatial Data Specialist uses Geographic Information Systems and other geographic technologies to capture, manage, represent, measure and analyse location data and monitor their changes over space and time. They use advanced spatial analysis and modelling to produce maps, visualisations and other communications to represent and explain relationships between location and other data. Understanding and analysing location data is a complex and specialised task. Location data analysis, spatial modelling, digital mapping and visualisation have developed through Geography and Geographic Information Science, a field of research and professional practice that stands alone from data science and data analysis. They may help organisations achieve net zero carbon emissions by identifying how location specific factors have an impact. This information can help inform strategies for good management of natural resources and environments. They may inform decision making on major infrastructure projects and provide analysis that helps to address geohazards and other risks. Their interpretation of location information may help businesses plan efficient and sustainable supply chains or provide services to communities. Their insight supports specialists in other fields to make decisions in location-sensitive ways. Depending on the sector a Spatial Data Specialist may work with a range of people. These could include environment and infrastructure managers, engineers, data scientists, planners, architects, IT professionals, insurance and risk managers, sustainability professionals, and policy makers. The Spatial Data Specialist always pays attention to the ethics, risks, limits or biases of their data and analysis when giving their insights.
The occupation initiates and leads programmes and projects which use location as the ‘golden thread’ to link, analyse and gain insight from multiple datasets. They enable stakeholders to gain greater value, insight and further opportunities from all their data by linking it to the real world. This is especially applicable to the green economy, in addressing the challenges of net zero and climate change, and in addressing inequality. For example such as green building, smart cities, noise mapping, air quality modelling and ecological assessments.
A Spatial Data Specialist differs from a data scientist in how they approach a problem. While a data scientist could identify a link between environment and health, a Spatial Data Specialist will also show you where those links have a large or small impact.
An employee in this occupation interacts with a broad range of people, often in multi-disciplinary teams. They provide location-based analysis, mapping, visualisation and insight to specialists in other fields across their organisation and sector. They may also work with external partners such as local and international businesses, governments, regulators, and academic research scientists. They are often asked to create maps and visualisations that communicate complex data for non-technical and public audiences.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for delivering advanced spatial analysis, mapping, visualisation and insight. They will use accurate, current and well-structured collections of location data, primarily in Geographic Information Systems. They will interpret stakeholder needs and business requirements to select the most appropriate data and, spatial methods. They will produce location information analysis and products that will engage customers or stakeholders, organise and represent complex information and help solve business problems. They will provide technical authority regarding the legal, safe, secure, effective and ethical uses of location data. They will lead the adoption of international and national location data standards, frameworks and best practices at project and organisational levels. Spatial Data Specialists normally report to senior managers and decision-makers.
| Duty | KSBs |
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Duty 1 Initiate, plan, research, collect and collate location data using technologies and approaches that include Geographic Information Systems. |
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Duty 2 Manage accurate and current collections of location data and related geographic information to sector specific standards and frameworks. Such collections would include vector and raster location data along with their metadata. |
K1 K3 K4 K7 K9 K11 K13 K14 K15 K18
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Duty 3 Evaluate user needs to ensure that the most appropriate data, tools and techniques are selected to meet the needs of the project. |
S1 S2 S4 S5 S10 S11 S14 S17 S18 S19 S20
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Duty 4 Manipulate, analyse, model, visualise and interpret location data and related geographic information to achieve project outcomes. |
K1 K2 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K11 K15 K18 S3 S4 S5 S9 S12 S14 S17 S18 S19 S20
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Duty 5 Create and maintain location data products that convey geographical significance and impact, using appropriate geographical reference systems, standards and symbolisation principles. Such products include: digital and printed maps, interactive dashboards and location data visualisations. |
S3 S4 S5 S9 S12 S14 S18 S19 S20
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Duty 6 Produce and maintain project related documentation, technical reports, statistics and geographical information. |
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Duty 7 Lead, and or support others in, the uses of current and emerging features of Geographic Information Systems, geographical technologies and location data to create solutions and open up new areas of application. |
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Duty 8 Assess and mitigate the risks, limitations, biases and ethical practices associated with the use of location data, in particular its provenance and interoperability. Provide advice and courses of action for senior managers and non-specialists on these. |
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Duty 9 Lead and or support others in using automation and scripting tasks to improve delivery of location data tasks and provide technical expertise to geographic digitisation projects, for example through coding, modelling and machine learning. |
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Duty 10 Generate collaborative working opportunities to increase understanding of the value and meaning of location data and insights for organisational decision making. |
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Duty 11 Present and communicate location data solutions and insight to technical and non-technical stakeholders such as clients and senior managers, to ensure the solutions meet their needs and have a positive impact on their organisation. |
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Duty 12 Work within multi-disciplinary teams to provide support and delivery of location information outputs. |
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Duty 13 Lead project delivery of location data activities using geographical technologies, to meet business requirements and project constraints. |
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Duty 14 Develop business cases and tenders, estimating the cost of activities using location data, describing their value and benefit to the business or client. |
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Duty 15 Support the management of Intellectual Property as it relates to the source, use and transformation of location data, and the creation of location data products. |
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Duty 16 Provide technical authority to the organisation regarding legal, safe, secure, effective and ethical uses of its location data. Lead the adoption of standards, frameworks and best practices for spatial analysis, mapping and visualisation. |
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Duty 17 Lead and coordinate location information teams. |
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Duty 18 Participate in Continued Professional Development and knowledge sharing especially keeping location data skills and knowledge up to date |
K1: Location data structures, datums, and standards.
Back to Duty
K2: Data classification and symbolisation for visualising and representing location data.
Back to Duty
K3: Sources of error, bias, imprecision and uncertainty, and how they may be affected by choice of data set or methodology, and incomplete data.
Back to Duty
K4: Implications of data quality including error, bias, imprecision, and uncertainty for decision-making.
Back to Duty
K5: The range of data formats available, their appropriate use, and their sources for example raster and vector format, remotely sensed data, and emerging data products.
Back to Duty
K6: Techniques to integrate, analyse, visualise, and interpret location data, for both natural or human environments.
Back to Duty
K7: Big-data and high-performance computing platforms and operating systems, local and remote High-Performance Computing HPC, and cloud computing.
Back to Duty
K8: Common location information software; repositories, programming languages, algorithm design, analysis and testing.
Back to Duty
K9: Database design and management, including information security considerations, and big data technologies.
Back to Duty
K10: Approaches to establishing the business value of location data analysis to deliver a solution in line with business needs, quality standards and timescales and the importance of location data and analysis to support and enhance multi-disciplinary teams.
Back to Duty
K11: Techniques in analysis research, design and deployment of location data used to meet the needs of the business and customers. Including limitations, compromises and trade-offs when translating location information and analytical theory into practice.
Back to Duty
K12: Communication techniques and approaches to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Back to Duty
K13: The responsibilities of working in professional environments in which location data is managed – including licensing, current and emerging legal, and regulatory frameworks.
Back to Duty
K14: The responsibilities of working in professional environments including ethical, standards and professional frameworks.
Back to Duty
K15: Operating systems, local and remote High-Performance Computing HPC, and cloud computing.
Back to Duty
K16: Project management principles and approaches.
Back to Duty
K17: Stakeholder engagement principles and approaches.
Back to Duty
K18: Location data curation and quality controls.
Back to Duty
K19: How sustainable thinking affects their industry, horizon scanning for potential changes in policy and legislation.
Back to Duty
S1: Recognise and evaluate the availability, format, scope and limitations of different types and formats of location data.
Back to Duty
S2: Select, acquire, integrate and maintain a variety of location data types and formats - for example raster, vector, attribute data and metadata - in GIS and linked databases.
Back to Duty
S3: Select and apply location analysis and modelling techniques to solve complex problems and meet business, time and budget requirements.
Back to Duty
S4: Analyse location information using programmatic methods, statistical and other quantitative and data integration approaches and visualise results.
Back to Duty
S5: Review project requirements and conduct stakeholder engagement to scope new project requirements, boundaries and approaches.
Back to Duty
S6: Assess, and communicate, the implications of incomplete location data on analysis, visualisation and decision making.
Back to Duty
S7: Selects communication methods to meet the needs of diverse stakeholders and audiences.
Back to Duty
S8: Implement location data curation and quality controls, for example geometric accuracy, thematic accuracy, resolution, precision and fitness for use, and overall meeting the requirements of relevant geospatial standards.
Back to Duty
S9: Evaluate, select and apply cartographic design principles and standards to create and edit static and interactive visual representations of location data such as maps, graphs and diagrams for print and digital outputs which meets the needs of different end-users.
Back to Duty
S10: Implement computational infrastructure and database solutions, internal or external cloud resources.
Back to Duty
S11: Implement automation and or customisation of GIS, location data analysis and visualisation tasks including Application Programming Interfaces APIs, Software Development Kits SDKs, common location data algorithms and scripting languages, for example Python or R.
Back to Duty
S12: Apply regulatory, legal, ethical and governance issues when evaluating choices at each stage of the location data lifecycle.
Back to Duty
S13: Apply project management principles to ensure delivery of business requirements and solutions.
Back to Duty
S14: Select computing platforms and operating systems appropriate to need.
Back to Duty
S15: Establish and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
Back to Duty
S16: Personal responsibility for Continuous Professional Development.
Back to Duty
S17: Apply appropriate common location software tools to deliver location information outcomes.
Back to Duty
S18: Apply appropriate common location database and management tools to deliver location information outcomes.
Back to Duty
S19: Apply appropriate big data and common location computing platforms to deliver location information outcomes.
Back to Duty
S20: Apply appropriate common location operating systems and high performance computing and cloud computing to deliver location information outcomes.
Back to Duty
S21: Apply sustainable processes and practices within their role.
Back to Duty
B1: Take responsibility for keeping up to date with advances in the geospatial field and the opportunities these present for personal and or organisational development.
Back to Duty
B2: Act with integrity with respect to ethical, legal and regulatory frameworks and in a way that promotes trust in the profession.
Back to Duty
B3: Be self-directed in learning and reflection to improve and work towards evidence-based best practice.
Back to Duty
B4: Take personal responsibility for work objectives and delivery of outputs.
Back to Duty
B5: Be adaptable, demonstrating initiative, reliable and consistent, demonstrating discretion, resilience, self-awareness and team working.
Back to Duty
B6: Act as a role model to peers.
Back to Duty
B7: Treats people with dignity, and respects diversity, beliefs, and culture.
Back to Duty
B8: An advocate for sustainable approaches.
Back to Duty
Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
Level: 7 (integrated degree)
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
V1.0
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the spatial data specialist degree-apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Spatial data specialist apprentices, their employers and training provider should read this document.
A degree-apprenticeship awards a degree with the achievement of the apprenticeship. The degree learning outcomes must be aligned with the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) in the apprenticeship. The degree must be completed, passed and awarded alongside the spatial data specialist degree-apprenticeship.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
The employer must be content that the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard.
The apprentice must complete and pass all credit carrying modules of the Spatial Data Specialist degree, apart from the final module which will form the EPA.
The apprentice must agree the subject, title, and scope for their EPA project with their employer and EPAO to confirm its suitability at the gateway.
The apprentice must compile and submit a dissertation to their EPAO, which will underpin the professional discussion.
The apprentice must achieve English and mathematics at Level 2. The EPAO must confirm that all required gateway evidence has been provided and accepted as meeting the gateway requirements. The EPAO is responsible for confirming gateway eligibility. Once this has been confirmed, the EPA period starts.
A degree-apprenticeship must be delivered by a Higher Education Provider (HEP) that is on the apprenticeship providers and assessment register (APAR). The selected HEP must be the training provider and the EPAO. The apprentice's employer must select a HEP from this register.
A full-time spatial data specialist apprentice typically spends 24 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.
This EPA should then be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 24 months.
Occupational competence is outlined by the EPA grade descriptors and determined, when assessed in line with this EPA plan, by an independent assessor who is an occupational expert and confirms the overall EPA grade.
This EPA has 2 assessment methods.
Assessment method 1 - practical assessment with presentation and questions :
Assessment method 2 - professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall degree-apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the degree-apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 24 months
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The apprentice must:
The qualification required is: L7 Spatial data
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the degree-apprenticeship. The apprentice must:
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
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End-point assessment - typically 3 months
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The grades available for each assessment method are below
Practical assessment with presentation and questions :
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio:
Overall EPA and degree-apprenticeship can be graded:
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Professional recognition
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This degree-apprenticeship aligns with:
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The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
For the practical assessment with presentation and questions:
The EPAO should sign off the project’s subject, title and scope to confirm its suitability at the gateway.
For the professional discussion, the apprentice will be required to submit a portfolio – see requirements below:
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods must be delivered in the following order:
The practical assessment must be undertaken before the presentation.
The practical assessment is undertaken before the presentation enabling the apprentice to include reflections on their findings and methodology from the practical assessment.
This assessment method is made up of two components.
In a practical assessment with presentation and questions, an independent assessor observes the apprentice completing a task or series of tasks set by the EPAO. The EPAO decides where it takes place. The assessment environment must closely relate to the apprentice’s natural working environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
Example practical tasks could include:
Questions must be asked after the practical assessment. The total time for the practical assessment is 3.5 hours with 2.5 hours allocated to the practical assessment and 1 hour allocated to the presentation and questions. The presentation must be delivered in 30 minutes with a further 30 minutes for questioning (total of 1 hour for presentaion and questions). A 10% time tolerance can be applied for both the presentation and questioning to enable the apprentice to finish earlier or later if required.
The practical assessment with presentation and questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess thepractical assessment with presentation and questions .
The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . practical assessment with presentation and questions
The practical assessment with presentation and questions must take 3.5 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with presentation and questions 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 presentation and questions 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.
The EPAO must manage invigilation of the apprentice during the assessment, to maintain security of the EPA, in line with their malpractice policy. This includes breaks and moving between locations.
The independent assessor must explain to the apprentice the format and timescales of the practical assessment with presentation and questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
Component one - demonstration of practical skills
Component two - presentation including questioning
After the practical assessment the apprentice has a week to prepare and deliver a presentation. The presentation will be based on their practical demonstration and needs to cover the following:
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions. 1 hour allocated to the delivery of the presentation and questions. 30 minutes for the delivery of the presentation and 30 minutes for the questioning. A 10% tolerance can be applied.
The purpose of the questions are.
• to verify that the activity was completed by the apprentice
• to seek clarification where required
• to assess those KSBs that the apprentice did not have the opportunity to demonstrate.
Questions must be asked after the presentation and reflection. The total time for the practical element is 3.5 hours with 2.5 hours allocated to the practical and 1 hour allocated to the delivery of the presentation with reflection and questions.
The independent assessor must ask at least 3 questions. 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 can ask follow-up 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 presentation and questions .
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must assess the practical assessment and responses to questions holistically when deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The practical assessment with presentation and questions must 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 presentation and questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.
Questioning that occurs after the practical assessment with presentation and questions should take place in a suitable environment for example a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of tasks and questions in the case of re-sits and retakes, to minimise predictability.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the practical assessment with presentation and questions :
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the professional discussion, an independent assessor and apprentice have a formal two-way conversation. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
• It is reflective of industry
• It provides a consistent method to assess knowledge, skills and behaviours holistically
• The apprentice would be expected to undertake and complete similar exercises in their day to day work for example holding discussions with peers, managers and clients.
• The apprentice can use their portfolio to underpin their professional discussion. The portfolio can include a range of evidence for example their dissertation, reports, evidence from meetings and events, evidence of CPD and statements from managers and colleagues. .
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 EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the professional discussion.
The professional discussion must last for 90 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 12 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The professional discussion must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The professional discussion can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The professional discussion should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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Principles & application of location data
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 |
Communicates an evaluation of the implications of data quality and incomplete location data, including error, bias, imprecision and uncertainty on analysis, visualisation and decision making. (K4, S6) Selects and applies location analysis and modelling techniques appropriate to the practical brief which meet business, time and budget requirements. (S3) Analyses location information applying selected programmatic, statistical or other data integration approaches using data classification and symbolisation to visualise results. (K2, S4) Explains sources of error, bias, imprecision and uncertainty, and how choice of data set, methodology, or incomplete data can influence error, bias, imprecision and uncertainty. (K3) Evaluates the availability, format, scope and limitations of location data for the practical exercise, selects acquires, integrates and maintains location data types and formats in GIS and linked databases. (K1, S1, S2) Conducts stakeholder engagement to determine requirements, boundaries and approaches for the project, reviews the range of data formats available, their use and sources, selecting the most appropriate for the practical task. (K5, S5)
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Critically evaluates the impact data quality has on the decision making process. (K4) Justifies their choice of location data types and formats. (S2) Justifies the choice of methodology, explaining the risks and benefits and offers an alternative. (K3)
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Location information within professional practice
K6 K7 K11 K12 S7 S9 |
Describes the range of techniques available for analysis, integration, and visualisation as well as interpreting location data in all environments. (K6) Describes the techniques they used in analysis research as well as the design and deployment of location data and how these meet the needs of the business and customers. (K11) Evaluates selects and applies cartographic design principles and standards to create and edit static and interactive visual representations of location data to meet the needs of end-users. (S9) Describes big-data and high-performance computing platforms and operating systems, local and remote High-Performance Computing HPC, and cloud computing. (K7) Selects and applies communication techniques which reflect the needs of technical and non-technical stakeholders and audiences. (K12, S7)
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Evaluates complex analysis research techniques and details the considerations that need to be taken into account when employing these techniques. (K11) |
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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Professional Development
K13 K14 K19 S16 S21 B1 B2 B3 B4 B6 B7 B8 |
Assumes responsibility for their personal and or organisational development by keeping up to date with advances in the geospatial field and to be proactive in looking at ways to improve evidence-based best practice. (S16, B1, B3) Act as a role model for others. (B6) Establishes an approach to work tasks where they take personal responsibility for work objectives and delivery of outputs. (B4) Treats people with dignity, and respects diversity, beliefs, and culture in line with legislation and organisational policies and procedures. (B7) Acts with integrity and respect to promote trust in the profession by adhering to licensing, current and emerging legal, and regulatory frameworks and ethical and professional standards. (K13, K14, B2) Explains how they take personal responsibility to apply sustainability practices and policy in their work. (K19, S21, B8)
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Critically evaluates their role in the organisation, identifying potential continuous professional development opportunities which would add value and contribute to the outcomes of future projects. (S16) Evaluates the impact of sustainability approaches in their work. (K19, S21, B8)
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Information technology components of hardware and software
K8 K9 K10 K15 K16 K17 K18 S8 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S17 S18 S19 S20 B5 |
Applies information software tools such as repositories, programming languages, algorithm design, and analysis and testing methods to deliver location information outcomes. (K8, S17) Selects and implements appropriate data base designs and management that meet business requirements within agreed timescales and quality standards whilst supporting and improving multi-disciplinary teams. (K10, S18) Describes how they applied big-data and high-performance computing platforms in order to meet business needs or to deliver business outcomes. (K9, S19) Demonstrates how they implement data curation and data quality controls using a project management approach and principles in line with organisational and regulatory standards to meet business needs. (K16, S8, S13, K18) Applies regulatory, legal, ethical and governance issues when evaluating choices at each stage of the location data lifecycle. (S12) Describes how they have worked with a range of stakeholders with different needs whilst demonstrating how they have manged these relationships with a positive outcome. (K17, S15, B5) Selects and applies computational infrastructure and database solutions, internal or external cloud resources. (S10) Implements automation and or customisation of GIS, location data analysis and visualisation tasks including APIs, SDKs, common location data algorithms and scripting languages. (S11) Demonstrates how they select and apply operating systems, high performance and cloud computing to meet business needs. (K15, S14, S20)
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Reflects on their management of stakeholders and multi-disciplinary teams justifying how their approach generates value within the context of a business model. (K17, S15) Assesses the business impact of adhering to relevant ethical, legal, governance and regulatory requirements. (S12) |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the practical assessment with presentation and questions and professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. As detailed in table.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
Additional assessors can contribute to grading decisions in line with this EPA plan, on the following end-point assessment methods:
| Practical assessment with presentation and questions | Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that EPAOs must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable end-point assessment decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to all requirements within the roles and responsibilities table and:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This degree-apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Location data structures, datums, and standards. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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K2
Data classification and symbolisation for visualising and representing location data. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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K3
Sources of error, bias, imprecision and uncertainty, and how they may be affected by choice of data set or methodology, and incomplete data. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
K4
Implications of data quality including error, bias, imprecision, and uncertainty for decision-making. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
K5
The range of data formats available, their appropriate use, and their sources for example raster and vector format, remotely sensed data, and emerging data products. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
K6
Techniques to integrate, analyse, visualise, and interpret location data, for both natural or human environments. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
K7
Big-data and high-performance computing platforms and operating systems, local and remote High-Performance Computing HPC, and cloud computing. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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K8
Common location information software; repositories, programming languages, algorithm design, analysis and testing. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K9
Database design and management, including information security considerations, and big data technologies. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K10
Approaches to establishing the business value of location data analysis to deliver a solution in line with business needs, quality standards and timescales and the importance of location data and analysis to support and enhance multi-disciplinary teams. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K11
Techniques in analysis research, design and deployment of location data used to meet the needs of the business and customers. Including limitations, compromises and trade-offs when translating location information and analytical theory into practice. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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K12
Communication techniques and approaches to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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K13
The responsibilities of working in professional environments in which location data is managed – including licensing, current and emerging legal, and regulatory frameworks. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K14
The responsibilities of working in professional environments including ethical, standards and professional frameworks. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K15
Operating systems, local and remote High-Performance Computing HPC, and cloud computing. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K16
Project management principles and approaches. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K17
Stakeholder engagement principles and approaches. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K18
Location data curation and quality controls. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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K19
How sustainable thinking affects their industry, horizon scanning for potential changes in policy and legislation. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Recognise and evaluate the availability, format, scope and limitations of different types and formats of location data. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
S2
Select, acquire, integrate and maintain a variety of location data types and formats - for example raster, vector, attribute data and metadata - in GIS and linked databases. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
S3
Select and apply location analysis and modelling techniques to solve complex problems and meet business, time and budget requirements. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
S4
Analyse location information using programmatic methods, statistical and other quantitative and data integration approaches and visualise results. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
S5
Review project requirements and conduct stakeholder engagement to scope new project requirements, boundaries and approaches. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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S6
Assess, and communicate, the implications of incomplete location data on analysis, visualisation and decision making. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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S7
Selects communication methods to meet the needs of diverse stakeholders and audiences. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
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S8
Implement location data curation and quality controls, for example geometric accuracy, thematic accuracy, resolution, precision and fitness for use, and overall meeting the requirements of relevant geospatial standards. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S9
Evaluate, select and apply cartographic design principles and standards to create and edit static and interactive visual representations of location data such as maps, graphs and diagrams for print and digital outputs which meets the needs of different end-users. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with presentation and questions |
|
S10
Implement computational infrastructure and database solutions, internal or external cloud resources. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S11
Implement automation and or customisation of GIS, location data analysis and visualisation tasks including Application Programming Interfaces APIs, Software Development Kits SDKs, common location data algorithms and scripting languages, for example Python or R. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S12
Apply regulatory, legal, ethical and governance issues when evaluating choices at each stage of the location data lifecycle. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S13
Apply project management principles to ensure delivery of business requirements and solutions. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
S14
Select computing platforms and operating systems appropriate to need. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S15
Establish and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S16
Personal responsibility for Continuous Professional Development. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S17
Apply appropriate common location software tools to deliver location information outcomes. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S18
Apply appropriate common location database and management tools to deliver location information outcomes. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S19
Apply appropriate big data and common location computing platforms to deliver location information outcomes. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S20
Apply appropriate common location operating systems and high performance computing and cloud computing to deliver location information outcomes. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
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S21
Apply sustainable processes and practices within their role. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Take responsibility for keeping up to date with advances in the geospatial field and the opportunities these present for personal and or organisational development. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B2
Act with integrity with respect to ethical, legal and regulatory frameworks and in a way that promotes trust in the profession. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B3
Be self-directed in learning and reflection to improve and work towards evidence-based best practice. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B4
Take personal responsibility for work objectives and delivery of outputs. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B5
Be adaptable, demonstrating initiative, reliable and consistent, demonstrating discretion, resilience, self-awareness and team working. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B6
Act as a role model to peers. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B7
Treats people with dignity, and respects diversity, beliefs, and culture. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
|
B8
An advocate for sustainable approaches. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Principles & application of location data
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 |
Location data structures, datums, and standards. (K1) Data classification and symbolisation for visualising and representing location data. (K2) Sources of error, bias, imprecision and uncertainty, and how they may be affected by choice of data set or methodology, and incomplete data. (K3) Implications of data quality including error, bias, imprecision, and uncertainty for decision-making. (K4) The range of data formats available, their appropriate use, and their sources for example raster and vector format, remotely sensed data, and emerging data products. (K5) |
Recognise and evaluate the availability, format, scope and limitations of different types and formats of location data. (S1) Select, acquire, integrate and maintain a variety of location data types and formats - for example raster, vector, attribute data and metadata - in GIS and linked databases. (S2) Select and apply location analysis and modelling techniques to solve complex problems and meet business, time and budget requirements. (S3) Analyse location information using programmatic methods, statistical and other quantitative and data integration approaches and visualise results. (S4) Review project requirements and conduct stakeholder engagement to scope new project requirements, boundaries and approaches. (S5) Assess, and communicate, the implications of incomplete location data on analysis, visualisation and decision making. (S6) |
None |
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Location information within professional practice
K6 K7 K11 K12 S7 S9 |
Techniques to integrate, analyse, visualise, and interpret location data, for both natural or human environments. (K6) Big-data and high-performance computing platforms and operating systems, local and remote High-Performance Computing HPC, and cloud computing. (K7) Techniques in analysis research, design and deployment of location data used to meet the needs of the business and customers. Including limitations, compromises and trade-offs when translating location information and analytical theory into practice. (K11) Communication techniques and approaches to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders. (K12) |
Selects communication methods to meet the needs of diverse stakeholders and audiences. (S7) Evaluate, select and apply cartographic design principles and standards to create and edit static and interactive visual representations of location data such as maps, graphs and diagrams for print and digital outputs which meets the needs of different end-users. (S9) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Professional Development
K13 K14 K19 S16 S21 B1 B2 B3 B4 B6 B7 B8 |
The responsibilities of working in professional environments in which location data is managed – including licensing, current and emerging legal, and regulatory frameworks. (K13) The responsibilities of working in professional environments including ethical, standards and professional frameworks. (K14) How sustainable thinking affects their industry, horizon scanning for potential changes in policy and legislation. (K19) |
Personal responsibility for Continuous Professional Development. (S16) Apply sustainable processes and practices within their role. (S21) |
Take responsibility for keeping up to date with advances in the geospatial field and the opportunities these present for personal and or organisational development. (B1) Act with integrity with respect to ethical, legal and regulatory frameworks and in a way that promotes trust in the profession. (B2) Be self-directed in learning and reflection to improve and work towards evidence-based best practice. (B3) Take personal responsibility for work objectives and delivery of outputs. (B4) Act as a role model to peers. (B6) Treats people with dignity, and respects diversity, beliefs, and culture. (B7) An advocate for sustainable approaches. (B8) |
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Information technology components of hardware and software
K8 K9 K10 K15 K16 K17 K18 S8 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S17 S18 S19 S20 B5 |
Common location information software; repositories, programming languages, algorithm design, analysis and testing. (K8) Database design and management, including information security considerations, and big data technologies. (K9) Approaches to establishing the business value of location data analysis to deliver a solution in line with business needs, quality standards and timescales and the importance of location data and analysis to support and enhance multi-disciplinary teams. (K10) Operating systems, local and remote High-Performance Computing HPC, and cloud computing. (K15) Project management principles and approaches. (K16) Stakeholder engagement principles and approaches. (K17) Location data curation and quality controls. (K18) |
Implement location data curation and quality controls, for example geometric accuracy, thematic accuracy, resolution, precision and fitness for use, and overall meeting the requirements of relevant geospatial standards. (S8) Implement computational infrastructure and database solutions, internal or external cloud resources. (S10) Implement automation and or customisation of GIS, location data analysis and visualisation tasks including Application Programming Interfaces APIs, Software Development Kits SDKs, common location data algorithms and scripting languages, for example Python or R. (S11) Apply regulatory, legal, ethical and governance issues when evaluating choices at each stage of the location data lifecycle. (S12) Apply project management principles to ensure delivery of business requirements and solutions. (S13) Select computing platforms and operating systems appropriate to need. (S14) Establish and maintain positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders. (S15) Apply appropriate common location software tools to deliver location information outcomes. (S17) Apply appropriate common location database and management tools to deliver location information outcomes. (S18) Apply appropriate big data and common location computing platforms to deliver location information outcomes. (S19) Apply appropriate common location operating systems and high performance computing and cloud computing to deliver location information outcomes. (S20) |
Be adaptable, demonstrating initiative, reliable and consistent, demonstrating discretion, resilience, self-awareness and team working. (B5) |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 13/03/2024 | Not set | Not set |
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