Produce and repair finished, quality-assured spectacles.
This occupation is found in the healthcare manufacturing industry, including retailing through smaller independent practices and larger-scale multiple practices, and lens manufacturing sites.
Prescription lenses and or complete optical devices are manufactured, supplied and fitted within this role using the information in the clinical prescription provided by optometrists.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to manufacture, repair and quality assure optical devices, spectacles and their component parts, optical frames and lenses to the prescription information provided by clinical optometrists, ophthalmologists and or dispensing opticians.
Spectacle Technicians need to be able to interpret clinical prescriptions and spectacle orders, identify lens and frame materials and their handling characteristics, produce optical devices according to the clinical prescription, understand quality assurance processes and standards, maintain equipment and ensure a safe working environment, identify faults and repair and or replace component parts, work with colleagues and customers to resolve problems and technical issues. They need to also critically assess for errors or omissions and assess suitability before proceeding.
Spectacle Technicians may work in a variety of optical manufacturing environments. These can be in any or all of the following environments: lens prescription manufacturing to produce optical lenses to the required prescription information, lens coating and treatment manufacturing to apply coatings and treatments to optical lenses and or lens glazing and fitting to cut and assemble lenses and fit to spectacle frames.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation will interact with colleagues in the retail or manufacturing operation where they work. This would involve team members in the same organisation, workplace for example: opticians, dispensing colleagues, stock room operative, quality assurance operative, managers or supervisors they report to, other external suppliers and their customers.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for:
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 18 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:
Practical tasks with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 2 hours. They will ask you at least 4 questions.
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 6 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.
Multiple-choice test
You will complete a multiple-choice test. It will be closed book, meaning you will not have access to any books or reference materials.
The test will have 45 multiple-choice questions. You will have 75 minutes to complete it.
The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.
You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.
You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.
You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.
If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.
This occupation is found in the healthcare manufacturing industry, including retailing through smaller independent practices and larger-scale multiple practices, and lens manufacturing sites.
Prescription lenses and or complete optical devices are manufactured, supplied and fitted within this role using the information in the clinical prescription provided by optometrists.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to manufacture, repair and quality assure optical devices, spectacles and their component parts, optical frames and lenses to the prescription information provided by clinical optometrists, ophthalmologists and or dispensing opticians.
Spectacle Technicians need to be able to interpret clinical prescriptions and spectacle orders, identify lens and frame materials and their handling characteristics, produce optical devices according to the clinical prescription, understand quality assurance processes and standards, maintain equipment and ensure a safe working environment, identify faults and repair and or replace component parts, work with colleagues and customers to resolve problems and technical issues. They need to also critically assess for errors or omissions and assess suitability before proceeding.
Spectacle Technicians may work in a variety of optical manufacturing environments. These can be in any or all of the following environments: lens prescription manufacturing to produce optical lenses to the required prescription information, lens coating and treatment manufacturing to apply coatings and treatments to optical lenses and or lens glazing and fitting to cut and assemble lenses and fit to spectacle frames.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation will interact with colleagues in the retail or manufacturing operation where they work. This would involve team members in the same organisation, workplace for example: opticians, dispensing colleagues, stock room operative, quality assurance operative, managers or supervisors they report to, other external suppliers and their customers.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for:
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
|
Duty 1 Order, stock and manage component parts and or products used for manufacturing, using clinical prescription details or order information to accurately process into production and or on to the customer. |
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Duty 2 Act within agreed ways of working following relevant national and local standards, policies and standard operating procedures in the workplace. |
K1 K3 K5 K10 K11 K15 K21 K22 K28 K29 K30 K31 |
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Duty 3 Maintain the health, safety and security of yourself, customers and others in the workplace by identifying risks and hazards and taking appropriate action to keep people safe. |
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|
Duty 4 Maintain environmental awareness for the effective disposal of waste from the production process. |
|
|
Duty 5 Conduct maintenance and calibration to equipment and tools as required, referring to suppliers’ guidelines and company procedures. |
K4 K9 K10 K18 K22 K23 K24 K27 K29 K30 S1 S4 S6 S7 S12 S13 S19 S20 S21
|
|
Duty 6 Prepare, organise and quality assess appropriate component parts as required before they enter the manufacturing process, ensuring they are fit for purpose and meet industry and national tolerances and quality standards. |
K9 K10 K12 K13 K15 K18 K19 K22 K30 K33 |
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Duty 7 Use prepared component parts to produce the optical device using correct machinery and tools required for each process or product |
K3 K10 K12 K13 K15 K18 K22 K29 K30 K33
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Duty 8 Undertake the necessary quality checks to ensure that the devices and or components meet the required quality standards. |
|
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Duty 9 Package and dispatch products to customers. |
|
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Duty 10 Monitor and report any issues relating to manufacturing equipment, products, tools, consumables or processes to the relevant colleagues, suppliers or companies. |
|
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Duty 11 Work with colleagues and customers to resolve problems and technical issues, supporting continuous improvement in your role. |
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Duty 12 Meet personal and business targets and goals on an ongoing basis. |
K1: Legislation, and regulated activities within the Optical working environment: data protection regulations, General Optical Council GOC, Health & Safety, industry tolerances and Safeguarding.
Back to Duty
K2: Team working principles.
Back to Duty
K3: Customer types, including personal and business to business.
Back to Duty
K4: Safe systems of work in the optical manufacturing environment, including COSHH, PPE, hazard and risk awareness, manual handling.
Back to Duty
K5: Work based safety incidents: fire evacuation, accidents, near misses, use of emergency equipment, reporting processes.
Back to Duty
K6: Order placing methods, for example online, telephone, face to face, and the components of an order.
Back to Duty
K7: Quality control Identifying, amending and recording order errors and omissions.
Back to Duty
K8: Stock and stock control systems.
Back to Duty
K9: Time management techniques: Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow management.
Back to Duty
K10: Optical equipment: supplier and employer maintenance guidelines including Medical Devices Directive MDD specifications for focimeters.
Back to Duty
K11: Principles of quality management: quality standards, assurance principles and practice. Quality data recording, retaining and storage.
Back to Duty
K12: Optical engraving and marking, including engravings and markings found on safety eyewear and spectacle lenses and the impact on manufacturing and quality requirements.
Back to Duty
K13: Specialised optical products such as safety and sports eyewear, rimless mounts, prisms, mirror tints or Fresnel prisms.
Back to Duty
K14: Supplier and credit return options and guarantees.
Back to Duty
K15: The remake and reject procedures in optical product manufacturing.
Back to Duty
K16: Customer service complaints and their impact.
Back to Duty
K17: Workplace and industry training and development techniques. Managing own Continuous Professional Development CPD.
Back to Duty
K18: Optical tools and equipment used in the optical product manufacturing and repair processes.
Back to Duty
K19: How the eye works: including corrective prescriptions and visual defects.
Back to Duty
K20: The optical manufacturing sector: background, services and future trends.
Back to Duty
K21: Standard operating procedures SOP's.
Back to Duty
K22: Principles of sustainability and circular economy. Energy efficiency and reuse of materials. Recycling procedures. Efficient use of resources.
Back to Duty
K23: Continuous improvement techniques: for example Lean, and 5 S. Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain.
Back to Duty
K24: Repair practices and techniques in optical environments.
Back to Duty
K25: Automation and digitalisation of optical manufacturing processes and its benefits.
Back to Duty
K26: Communication techniques: verbal and written.
Back to Duty
K27: Calibration tools and equipment used in the optical product manufacturing and repair processes.
Back to Duty
K28: Work instructions including optical prescriptions, manufacturer’s guidance for component parts.
Back to Duty
K29: Manufacturing optical products and component parts: lens, frames and component parts.
Back to Duty
K30: The use of tools and equipment in the manufacture, repair and remake and reject processes of optical products.
Back to Duty
K31: The spectacle technician roles and responsibilities, limits of autonomy and reporting channels.
Back to Duty
K32: Digital technology in the industry: stock management information systems, and equipment digital interfaces.
Back to Duty
K33: Bespoke optical products.
Back to Duty
K34: Internal and external teams, their function and interdependencies.
Back to Duty
S1: Apply health and safety procedures in compliance with regulations and standards.
Back to Duty
S2: Apply team working principles.
Back to Duty
S3: Communicate with colleagues and stakeholders for example, colleagues, managers and the public – verbal, written or electronic. Use industry terminology.
Back to Duty
S4: Identify hazards and risks in the workplace: PPE, COSHH, manual handling.
Back to Duty
S5: Use tools and equipment required to manufacture optical products: lenses, frames and, component parts.
Back to Duty
S6: Identify, organise and use resources to complete tasks, with consideration for cost, quality, priority and environmental impact.
Back to Duty
S7: Calibrate and maintain optical equipment and tools to supplier guidelines and MDD specifications, such as blocker, tracer, lens curve generator, coating equipment or focimeter.
Back to Duty
S8: Apply quality assurance principles and procedures and record outcomes for completed orders.
Back to Duty
S9: Identify products, their classification and any impact on manufacturing or quality, for example engravings on safety glasses, and remarking progressives.
Back to Duty
S10: Monitor stock levels and rotate stock.
Back to Duty
S11: Collect and use data on productivity and quality to improve processes and staff training.
Back to Duty
S12: Prepare component parts for manufacturing or treatment.
Back to Duty
S13: Manufacture component parts to complete the manufacturing or treatment process.
Back to Duty
S14: Use information and digital technology. Comply with data protection, and cyber security regulations and policies.
Back to Duty
S15: Apply standard operating procedures SOPs for optical products.
Back to Duty
S16: Apply repair practices and techniques to optical products.
Back to Duty
S17: Select tools and equipment to manufacture and repair optical products.
Back to Duty
S18: Plan work sequence to support the effective use of time and resources in the manufacturing process.
Back to Duty
S19: Produce customer orders from online, telephone and face to face requests.
Back to Duty
S20: Check and calibrate tools and equipment.
Back to Duty
S21: Interpret work instructions including optical prescriptions, and manufacturer’s guidance for component parts.
Back to Duty
S22: Conducts supplier and credit process.
Back to Duty
S23: Apply safe systems of work and control measures.
Back to Duty
B1: Take personal responsibility for and promote health and safety.
Back to Duty
B2: Take personal responsibility for their own sustainable working practices.
Back to Duty
B3: Act in a professional manner.
Back to Duty
B4: Support an inclusive culture.
Back to Duty
B5: Take responsibility for the quality and time management of own work.
Back to Duty
B6: Seek new ways of working, whilst committing to Continuous Professional Development CPD.
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.
V1.1
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the spectacle technician apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Spectacle technician apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time spectacle technician apprentice typically spends 18 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 3 months.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 3 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - practical tasks with questions:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence:
Assessment method 3 - multiple-choice test:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 18 months
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The apprentice must:
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|---|---|
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End-point assessment gateway
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The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
|
End-point assessment - typically 3 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Practical tasks with questions:
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence:
Multiple-choice test:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
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The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
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 8 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the discussion. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
In a practical assessment with 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:
The practical tasks with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the practical tasks with questions.
The independent assessor must only observe one apprentice at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . practical tasks with questions
The practical tasks with questions must take 2 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical tasks with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.
The practical tasks with 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 tasks with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
All tasks must demonstrate health and safety considerations and follow the organisation's standard operating procedures. Copies of the standard operating procedures are to be submitted to the EPAO at gateway.
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions. The purpose of the questions is to assess the level of competence against the grading descriptors.
Questions must be asked after the practical. The total duration of the practical is 2 hours and the time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The total time for the practical element is 1.5 hours. The time allocated for questioning is 30 minutes.
The independent assessor must ask at least 4 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 tasks with 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 tasks with 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 tasks with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting 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 tasks with questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
• the interview will allow the apprentice to draw on their experience linked to the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) mapped to this assessment method
• it allows the apprentice to explore their own practice and experience with the independent assessor to show how they demonstrate the occupation’s knowledge, skills and behaviours and that they are occupationally competent
• an interview is a well-recognised method of checking knowledge, skills and behaviours
• the purpose of the questioning is to assess the depth of understanding of the KSBs.
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose is to assess the apprentice’s competence against the following themes:
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the multiple-choice test, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
• it can assess knowledge
• it has potentially high reliability and validity
• it is easy to administer
• it can be conducted remotely and administered to multiple apprentices at the same time, potentially reducing cost.
The multiple-choice test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
The test must be computer based.
The test will consist of 45 multiple-choice questions.
Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.
The apprentice must be given at least 1 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.
Multiple-choice questions provided for the assessment of S7 must be scenario based.
The apprentice must have 75 minutes to complete the test.
The test is closed book which means that the apprentice cannot refer to reference books or materials whilst taking the test.
The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the EPAO. The EPAO must have an invigilation policy setting out how the test must be conducted. It must state the ratio of apprentices to invigilators for the setting and allow the test to take place in a secure way.
The EPAO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.
The EPAO is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The EPAO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.
The test must be marked by an independent assessor or marker employed by the EPAO. They must follow a marking scheme produced by the EPAO. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.
A correct answer gets 1 mark.
Any incorrect or missing answers get zero marks.
The EPAO is responsible for overseeing the marking of the test. The EPAO must ensure standardisation and moderation of tests with written answers.
The apprentice must take the test in a suitably controlled and invigilated environment that is a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The EPAO must check the venue is suitable.
The test could take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
Question and resource development
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation.
The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting 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 test:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
|
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
|
|---|---|---|
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Health and safety
K4 S1 S4 S23 B1 |
Prioritises health and safety by undertaking risk assessments, identifying potential hazards, wearing correct PPE, and following COSHH and manual handling guidance in line with the organisational requirements. (K4, S4, B1) Complies with safer systems of work and control measures in line with the regulations and standards within the organisation and sector. (S1, S23)
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Explains the impact to themselves and others of not complying with health and safety procedures in their working environment. (S1)
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Quality assurance
K11 S8 |
Applies quality assurance procedures to completed orders in line with the responsibilities, organisational requirements and manufacturer’s guidance, recording the outcomes of the quality assurance process. (K11, S8) |
Checks the quality standards have been met at points during the task, prior to task completion (K11, S8) |
|
Credit processing
K14 S22 |
Completes supplier and credit process in line with product and supplier guarantee guidelines. (K14, S22) |
None |
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Communication
K26 S3 |
Communicates with stakeholders using verbal, written or electronic techniques, adapts to the context and uses industry terminology when appropriate. (K26, S3) |
NA |
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Preparing for manufacturing process
K18 K21 K27 K28 S12 S15 S17 S18 S20 S21 |
Follows standard operating procedures (SOP) and work instructions to prepare for each task including reviewing optical prescriptions and product manufacturer's guidance. Checks tools and equipment for fitness-for-purpose and calibrates them if required. Plans work sequence and prepares component parts for each task in line with the task requirements. (K18, K21, K27, K28, S12, S15, S17, S18, S20, S21) |
NA |
|
Manufacturing and repair processes
K9 K15 K24 K29 K30 S5 S13 S16 B5 |
Takes responsibility for the tasks using tools and equipment required to:
optical products including: lens, frames, treatments and component parts in line with task requirements and workflow instructions. Plans and manages own time to schedule and complete tasks in line with organisational policy and procedures, and quality standards for the finished products. (K9, K15, K24, K29, K30, S5, S13, S16, B5) |
Checks the requirements for completion of product at points during each task, self correcting to ensure right first time. (S13, B5) |
|
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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The role of a spectacle technician in the optical manufacturing sector
K6 K20 K31 S19 |
Describes the optical manufacturing sector including its background, the services provided, and future trends. (K20) 'Outlines their role and responsibilities, the limits of their autonomy and reporting channels as a spectacle technician in the optical manufacturing sector'. (K31) Explains how they produce customer orders from customer order requests placed online, face to face or by telephone. (K6, S19) |
Explains how their role impacts on the wider business operation. (K6, S19) |
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Team working
K2 K34 S2 B4 |
Explains the function and interdependencies of internal and external teams and how they apply teamworking principles within this context to support an inclusive culture'. (K2, K34, S2, B4) |
NA |
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Digital technology in the sector
K32 S14 |
Explains how they comply with data protection and cyber security policies when using digital technology, including stock management information systems and equipment digital interfaces. (K32, S14) |
Evaluates the impact of the use of digital technology within the sector. (K32, S14) |
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Customer service
K3 K16 S11 B3 |
Outlines customer types, including personal and business to business and how they collect and use data on productivity and quality to benefit processes and contribute to staff training'. (K3, S11) Acts in a professional manner when dealing with customer service complaints and their impact'. (K16, B3)
|
NA |
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Environment and sustainability
K22 S6 B2 |
Explains how they take personal responsibility for their own sustainable working practices and the circular economy, following regulations guidance and standards which lead to the efficient use of resources and identify, organise and use resources to complete tasks, with consideration for cost, quality, priority and environmental impact'. (K22, S6, B2)
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Evaluates impact on the organisation of recycling and reuse of materials and the drive to use resources efficiently'. (K22, S6) |
|
CPD Continuous professional development
K17 B6 |
Describes how they seek out new ways of working as part of their workplace and industry CPD activities. (K17, B6) |
NA |
|
Policy and procedure
K1 K8 K10 S10 |
Explains how the data protection regulations, General Optical Council GOC, Health & Safety, industry tolerances and Safeguarding impact on the work of a spectacle technician. (K1) Explains how they use organisational stock and control systems to monitor levels and rotate stock. (K8, S10)
Explains how supplier maintenance guidelines including medical devices directive (MDD) specifications for focimeters impact on the role of a spectacle technician. (K10)
|
NA |
|
Manufacturing bespoke products
K33 S9 |
Explains how they identify and make adjustments to create bespoke optical products, for example engraving on safety glasses and remarking progressives. (K33, S9) |
NA |
| Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | 0 | 25 |
| Pass | 26 | 35 |
| Distinction | 36 | 45 |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the practical tasks with questions and interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve a merit the apprentice must achieve a distinction in either the practical task observation or the interview assessment method. To achieve a distinction the apprentice must achieve distinction in all three assessment methods
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Practical tasks with questions | Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence | Multiple-choice test | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Distinction | Pass | Pass | Merit |
| Distinction | Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Distinction | Pass | Distinction | Merit |
| Pass | Distinction | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | 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 2 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 3 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 merit for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
|
|
Marker |
As a minimum, the marker must:
|
|
Invigilator |
As a minimum, the invigilator must:
|
The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship is not aligned to professional recognition.
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Legislation, and regulated activities within the Optical working environment: data protection regulations, General Optical Council GOC, Health & Safety, industry tolerances and Safeguarding. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K2
Team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K3
Customer types, including personal and business to business. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K4
Safe systems of work in the optical manufacturing environment, including COSHH, PPE, hazard and risk awareness, manual handling. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K5
Work based safety incidents: fire evacuation, accidents, near misses, use of emergency equipment, reporting processes. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K6
Order placing methods, for example online, telephone, face to face, and the components of an order. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K7
Quality control Identifying, amending and recording order errors and omissions. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K8
Stock and stock control systems. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K9
Time management techniques: Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow management. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K10
Optical equipment: supplier and employer maintenance guidelines including Medical Devices Directive MDD specifications for focimeters. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K11
Principles of quality management: quality standards, assurance principles and practice. Quality data recording, retaining and storage. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K12
Optical engraving and marking, including engravings and markings found on safety eyewear and spectacle lenses and the impact on manufacturing and quality requirements. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K13
Specialised optical products such as safety and sports eyewear, rimless mounts, prisms, mirror tints or Fresnel prisms. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K14
Supplier and credit return options and guarantees. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K15
The remake and reject procedures in optical product manufacturing. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K16
Customer service complaints and their impact. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K17
Workplace and industry training and development techniques. Managing own Continuous Professional Development CPD. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K18
Optical tools and equipment used in the optical product manufacturing and repair processes. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K19
How the eye works: including corrective prescriptions and visual defects. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K20
The optical manufacturing sector: background, services and future trends. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
Standard operating procedures SOP's. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K22
Principles of sustainability and circular economy. Energy efficiency and reuse of materials. Recycling procedures. Efficient use of resources. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K23
Continuous improvement techniques: for example Lean, and 5 S. Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K24
Repair practices and techniques in optical environments. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K25
Automation and digitalisation of optical manufacturing processes and its benefits. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K26
Communication techniques: verbal and written. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K27
Calibration tools and equipment used in the optical product manufacturing and repair processes. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K28
Work instructions including optical prescriptions, manufacturer’s guidance for component parts. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K29
Manufacturing optical products and component parts: lens, frames and component parts. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K30
The use of tools and equipment in the manufacture, repair and remake and reject processes of optical products. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
K31
The spectacle technician roles and responsibilities, limits of autonomy and reporting channels. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K32
Digital technology in the industry: stock management information systems, and equipment digital interfaces. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K33
Bespoke optical products. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K34
Internal and external teams, their function and interdependencies. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Apply health and safety procedures in compliance with regulations and standards. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S2
Apply team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S3
Communicate with colleagues and stakeholders for example, colleagues, managers and the public – verbal, written or electronic. Use industry terminology. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S4
Identify hazards and risks in the workplace: PPE, COSHH, manual handling. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S5
Use tools and equipment required to manufacture optical products: lenses, frames and, component parts. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S6
Identify, organise and use resources to complete tasks, with consideration for cost, quality, priority and environmental impact. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S7
Calibrate and maintain optical equipment and tools to supplier guidelines and MDD specifications, such as blocker, tracer, lens curve generator, coating equipment or focimeter. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
S8
Apply quality assurance principles and procedures and record outcomes for completed orders. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S9
Identify products, their classification and any impact on manufacturing or quality, for example engravings on safety glasses, and remarking progressives. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S10
Monitor stock levels and rotate stock. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S11
Collect and use data on productivity and quality to improve processes and staff training. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S12
Prepare component parts for manufacturing or treatment. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S13
Manufacture component parts to complete the manufacturing or treatment process. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S14
Use information and digital technology. Comply with data protection, and cyber security regulations and policies. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S15
Apply standard operating procedures SOPs for optical products. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S16
Apply repair practices and techniques to optical products. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S17
Select tools and equipment to manufacture and repair optical products. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S18
Plan work sequence to support the effective use of time and resources in the manufacturing process. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S19
Produce customer orders from online, telephone and face to face requests. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S20
Check and calibrate tools and equipment. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S21
Interpret work instructions including optical prescriptions, and manufacturer’s guidance for component parts. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S22
Conducts supplier and credit process. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
S23
Apply safe systems of work and control measures. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Take personal responsibility for and promote health and safety. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
B2
Take personal responsibility for their own sustainable working practices. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
B3
Act in a professional manner. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
B4
Support an inclusive culture. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
B5
Take responsibility for the quality and time management of own work. Back to Grading |
Practical tasks with questions |
|
B6
Seek new ways of working, whilst committing to Continuous Professional Development CPD. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K4 S1 S4 S23 B1 |
Safe systems of work in the optical manufacturing environment, including COSHH, PPE, hazard and risk awareness, manual handling. (K4) |
Apply health and safety procedures in compliance with regulations and standards. (S1) Identify hazards and risks in the workplace: PPE, COSHH, manual handling. (S4) Apply safe systems of work and control measures. (S23) |
Take personal responsibility for and promote health and safety. (B1) |
|
Quality assurance
K11 S8 |
Principles of quality management: quality standards, assurance principles and practice. Quality data recording, retaining and storage. (K11) |
Apply quality assurance principles and procedures and record outcomes for completed orders. (S8) |
None |
|
Credit processing
K14 S22 |
Supplier and credit return options and guarantees. (K14) |
Conducts supplier and credit process. (S22) |
None |
|
Communication
K26 S3 |
Communication techniques: verbal and written. (K26) |
Communicate with colleagues and stakeholders for example, colleagues, managers and the public – verbal, written or electronic. Use industry terminology. (S3) |
None |
|
Preparing for manufacturing process
K18 K21 K27 K28 S12 S15 S17 S18 S20 S21 |
Optical tools and equipment used in the optical product manufacturing and repair processes. (K18) Standard operating procedures SOP's. (K21) Calibration tools and equipment used in the optical product manufacturing and repair processes. (K27) Work instructions including optical prescriptions, manufacturer’s guidance for component parts. (K28) |
Prepare component parts for manufacturing or treatment. (S12) Apply standard operating procedures SOPs for optical products. (S15) Select tools and equipment to manufacture and repair optical products. (S17) Plan work sequence to support the effective use of time and resources in the manufacturing process. (S18) Check and calibrate tools and equipment. (S20) Interpret work instructions including optical prescriptions, and manufacturer’s guidance for component parts. (S21) |
None |
|
Manufacturing and repair processes
K9 K15 K24 K29 K30 S5 S13 S16 B5 |
Time management techniques: Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow management. (K9) The remake and reject procedures in optical product manufacturing. (K15) Repair practices and techniques in optical environments. (K24) Manufacturing optical products and component parts: lens, frames and component parts. (K29) The use of tools and equipment in the manufacture, repair and remake and reject processes of optical products. (K30) |
Use tools and equipment required to manufacture optical products: lenses, frames and, component parts. (S5) Manufacture component parts to complete the manufacturing or treatment process. (S13) Apply repair practices and techniques to optical products. (S16) |
Take responsibility for the quality and time management of own work. (B5) |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The role of a spectacle technician in the optical manufacturing sector
K6 K20 K31 S19 |
Order placing methods, for example online, telephone, face to face, and the components of an order. (K6) The optical manufacturing sector: background, services and future trends. (K20) The spectacle technician roles and responsibilities, limits of autonomy and reporting channels. (K31) |
Produce customer orders from online, telephone and face to face requests. (S19) |
None |
|
Team working
K2 K34 S2 B4 |
Team working principles. (K2) Internal and external teams, their function and interdependencies. (K34) |
Apply team working principles. (S2) |
Support an inclusive culture. (B4) |
|
Digital technology in the sector
K32 S14 |
Digital technology in the industry: stock management information systems, and equipment digital interfaces. (K32) |
Use information and digital technology. Comply with data protection, and cyber security regulations and policies. (S14) |
None |
|
Customer service
K3 K16 S11 B3 |
Customer types, including personal and business to business. (K3) Customer service complaints and their impact. (K16) |
Collect and use data on productivity and quality to improve processes and staff training. (S11) |
Act in a professional manner. (B3) |
|
Environment and sustainability
K22 S6 B2 |
Principles of sustainability and circular economy. Energy efficiency and reuse of materials. Recycling procedures. Efficient use of resources. (K22) |
Identify, organise and use resources to complete tasks, with consideration for cost, quality, priority and environmental impact. (S6) |
Take personal responsibility for their own sustainable working practices. (B2) |
|
CPD Continuous professional development
K17 B6 |
Workplace and industry training and development techniques. Managing own Continuous Professional Development CPD. (K17) |
None |
Seek new ways of working, whilst committing to Continuous Professional Development CPD. (B6) |
|
Policy and procedure
K1 K8 K10 S10 |
Legislation, and regulated activities within the Optical working environment: data protection regulations, General Optical Council GOC, Health & Safety, industry tolerances and Safeguarding. (K1) Stock and stock control systems. (K8) Optical equipment: supplier and employer maintenance guidelines including Medical Devices Directive MDD specifications for focimeters. (K10) |
Monitor stock levels and rotate stock. (S10) |
None |
|
Manufacturing bespoke products
K33 S9 |
Bespoke optical products. (K33) |
Identify products, their classification and any impact on manufacturing or quality, for example engravings on safety glasses, and remarking progressives. (S9) |
None |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | Occupational standard, end-point assessment plan and funding band revised. | 01/04/2024 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 21/12/2016 | 31/03/2024 | Not set |
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