Assembling and installing steelworks required to strengthen reinforced concrete structures.
This occupation is found in The Construction and the Built Environment sector.
Steel Fixers work on various developments including commercial and industrial units, multi-storey housing and civil engineering projects like roadworks, tunnels and bridges.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to construct steel reinforcement which forms a vital part of any concrete structure. Steel Fixers construct reinforcement for columns, beams, walls and floors to which concrete is added to create the solid structure. They are using steel wire to tie together various diameters of steel reinforcement bar or mesh matts, that will need to be cut to length, bent to shape and fixed together. Components can be constructed in situ on a construction site or constructed elsewhere, then moved into position and tied into place on site. It is important that Steel Fixers work in a safe and accurate manner in order to complete the construction of the structure in accordance with the requirement set out in the construction drawings, to maintain the integrity of the work.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other trades such as formwork carpenters, groundworkers, scaffolders as well as supervisors, site management, architects, designers, contractors and customers. The working environment is often outdoors on a construction site and can be physically demanding. Steel Fixers often work at height, such as on high rise buildings, and therefore health and safety are of paramount importance.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working in a team, under supervision, using machinery and tools to create structures or components from the designs, digital model, plans and specifications of architects and designers that meet the client’s expectations.
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:
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:
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 35 multiple-choice questions. You will have 60 minutes to complete it.
Practical assessment with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 6 hours. They will ask you at least 3 questions.
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 45 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.
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 occupation is found in The Construction and the Built Environment sector.
Steel Fixers work on various developments including commercial and industrial units, multi-storey housing and civil engineering projects like roadworks, tunnels and bridges.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to construct steel reinforcement which forms a vital part of any concrete structure. Steel Fixers construct reinforcement for columns, beams, walls and floors to which concrete is added to create the solid structure. They are using steel wire to tie together various diameters of steel reinforcement bar or mesh matts, that will need to be cut to length, bent to shape and fixed together. Components can be constructed in situ on a construction site or constructed elsewhere, then moved into position and tied into place on site. It is important that Steel Fixers work in a safe and accurate manner in order to complete the construction of the structure in accordance with the requirement set out in the construction drawings, to maintain the integrity of the work.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other trades such as formwork carpenters, groundworkers, scaffolders as well as supervisors, site management, architects, designers, contractors and customers. The working environment is often outdoors on a construction site and can be physically demanding. Steel Fixers often work at height, such as on high rise buildings, and therefore health and safety are of paramount importance.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working in a team, under supervision, using machinery and tools to create structures or components from the designs, digital model, plans and specifications of architects and designers that meet the client’s expectations.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
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Duty 1 Work in compliance with occupational health and safety and environmental legislation, relevant regulations, and recognised industry guidance to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of self and others always. Report in a timely manner any non-compliances to the appropriate person. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K19 K20 K21 K22 K27 K30 K31 K32 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S19 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 2 Deliver work in accordance with design and specification. |
K2 K5 K7 K8 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K19 K20 K21 K22 K29 K30 K31 K32 S1 S2 S4 S5 S8 S9 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S19 S23 S24 S26
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Duty 3 Use a range of equipment, hand and power tools to carry out the assembly and installation of reinforcing steel. |
K1 K2 K9 K13 K15 K17 K20 K21 K23 K30 K31 K32 S1 S2 S6 S8 S10 S14 S15 S16 S17 S23
|
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Duty 4 Measure, cut and bend reinforcing steel. |
K1 K2 K9 K13 K15 K19 K20 K31 K32 S1 S2 S8 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S23
|
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Duty 5 Prepare the work area, checking it is safe and in accordance with method statements and risk assessments and implement the necessary control measures. |
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Duty 6 Maintain a clear and tidy workspace and ensure that waste materials are disposed of in accordance with current legislation and sustainably. |
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Duty 7 Work to the construction programme, adapting to changes in schedule and requirements where necessary. |
|
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Duty 8 Carry out quality checks against specification and take remedial action where instructed. |
K5 K11 K18 K20 K21 K22 K23 K29 K30 K31 K32 S1 S2 S4 S6 S7 S8 S9 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S19 S23 S24 S26
|
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Duty 9 Conduct work safely at height. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K13 K16 K20 K21 K22 K30 K31 K32 |
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Duty 10 Collaborate with stakeholders such as clients and other construction trades. |
K6 K7 K9 K22 K24 K25 K26 K28 K30 K31 K32 S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 S25 |
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Duty 11 Carry out continuous professional development to maintain knowledge of current and future developments affecting the role. |
K1: Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Employer and Employee responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HASWA) Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). Reporting of Injuries Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences (RIDDOR). Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER). Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Asbestos awareness. Fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Working in confined spaces. Working at height. Electrical safety awareness
Back to Duty
K2: Safe systems of work: Site inductions, toolbox talks, risk assessments, method statements and hazard identification techniques.
Back to Duty
K3: Safety control equipment and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE).
Back to Duty
K4: Provision for the safety of themselves and other affected by their work: use of personal fall protection equipment correctly, use of warning signs and physical barriers, making structures safe from access at all times.
Back to Duty
K5: Awareness of standards and regulations associated with steel fixing activities: British standards, building regulations and manufacturers’ instructions and warranty. Impact on how these inform drawings and bending specifications.
Back to Duty
K6: Verbal communication techniques and industry terminology.
Back to Duty
K7: Principles of good team working.
Back to Duty
K8: Awareness of traditional and modern methods of construction: on site and off-site building methods.
Back to Duty
K9: Manual handling techniques.
Back to Duty
K10: Steel reinforcement: principles and characteristics. Reinforcing steel: shape, placement, types, grades, sizes, condition.
Back to Duty
K11: Methods of interpreting relevant information from drawings and specifications.
Back to Duty
K12: Basic principles of digital design and modelling systems.
Back to Duty
K13: Steel fixing hand tools and power tools, use and storage techniques.
Back to Duty
K14: Steel reinforcing structures, types and building construction methods: cages, pile caps, columns, beams, slabs, walls.
Back to Duty
K15: Components: types and production methods. L bars, U bars, splay bars, chairs.
Back to Duty
K16: The principles and practices of working at height safely and the use of access and fall protection equipment.
Back to Duty
K17: The types and uses of steel fixing material: bars, mesh, tying wire, spacers, supports, bar protection, couplers, temporary construction bars.
Back to Duty
K18: Quality assurance requirements and monitoring processes of steel reinforcement installations.
Back to Duty
K19: Techniques to measure and mark out reinforcing steel.
Back to Duty
K20: Techniques to cut and bend reinforcing steel.
Back to Duty
K21: Reinforcing steel in situ: installation, techniques and risks.
Back to Duty
K22: Steel fixing using prefabricated products: installation and alignment into position, techniques and risks.
Back to Duty
K23: The use of digital equipment for positioning: laser levels, theodolites, Global Positioning Systems.
Back to Duty
K24: Legislative guidance relating to equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace.
Back to Duty
K25: Ethical principles: ethical and unethical behaviour and the routes for reporting unethical behaviour.
Back to Duty
K26: Awareness of issues and common symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, plus where to go for help and the resources available.
Back to Duty
K27: Awareness of environmental and sustainability regulations, how to use resources efficiently. Principles of Recycling, reuse, and safe disposal of waste.
Back to Duty
K28: Employment types (self employed and employed), small business start up principles, tax responsibilities, roles and responsibilities.
Back to Duty
K29: Work planning and pre- work checking requirements and techniques.
Back to Duty
K30: Reinforcing steel joining and tying techniques.
Back to Duty
K31: Steel fixing features and build techniques: steps, penetrations, upstands.
Back to Duty
K32: Steel components and bracing installation techniques.
Back to Duty
S1: Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance.
Back to Duty
S2: Select and use personal protective equipment (PPE).
Back to Duty
S3: Protect others within the working vicinity through the use of barriers, signs, and bar protectors.
Back to Duty
S4: Comply with industry regulations, standards, and guidance.
Back to Duty
S5: Prepare and maintain a safe working area.
Back to Duty
S6: Move, lift and handle materials.
Back to Duty
S7: Work at height and use access and fall protection equipment.
Back to Duty
S8: Interpret information from drawings and specifications.
Back to Duty
S9: Plan order of works and carry out pre-work checks.
Back to Duty
S10: Use and store hand tools and power tools.
Back to Duty
S11: Apply processes and techniques to install a range of in-situ steel reinforcing structures, for example, columns, walls, pile caps and slabs.
Back to Duty
S12: Measure and mark out reinforcing steel.
Back to Duty
S13: Cut and bend reinforcing steel.
Back to Duty
S14: Produce and install supports, for example, L bars, U bars, splay bars and chairs.
Back to Duty
S15: Join and tie reinforcing steel.
Back to Duty
S16: Use temporary construction bars.
Back to Duty
S17: Install bracing within steel reinforcement.
Back to Duty
S18: Communicate verbally with colleagues or customers using industry terminology.
Back to Duty
S19: Complete post build checks.
Back to Duty
S20: Follow equity, diversity and inclusion legislative guidance and principles.
Back to Duty
S21: Apply ethical principles.
Back to Duty
S22: Follow environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
Back to Duty
S23: Use processes and techniques to build reinforcing steel assembly with a: step, penetration or upstand feature.
Back to Duty
S24: Follow work instructions - verbal or written.
Back to Duty
S25: Applies team working principles.
Back to Duty
S26: Follow quality assurance procedures.
Back to Duty
B1: Put health, safety and wellbeing first.
Back to Duty
B2: Consider the environment when using resources and carrying out processes.
Back to Duty
B3: Take ownership of given work.
Back to Duty
B4: Contribute to an inclusive and diverse culture.
Back to Duty
B5: Seek learning and development opportunities.
Back to Duty
B6: Team-focus to meet team goals including, considering the wider build team.
Back to Duty
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.
V1.2
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the steel fixer apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Steel fixer apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time steel fixer 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 work with the training provider to select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship providers and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 3 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - multiple-choice test:
Assessment method 2 - practical assessment with questions:
Assessment method 3 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 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 a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
|
End-point assessment - typically 3 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Multiple-choice test:
Practical assessment with questions:
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
|
The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically 3 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements:
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by the interview. It will typically contain 10 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
For the assessment of S11 'Apply processes and techniques to install a range of in-situ steel reinforcing structures, for example, columns, walls, pile caps and slabs.', the apprentice is required to provide evidence for a range of in-situ steel reinforcing structures. A range is defined as a minimum of two different structures, for example two structures from the following list: columns, walls, pile caps and slabs.
Simulated environments
It is understood that some skills in this apprenticeship may not be utilised during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship but are still required for overall occupational competence. Some apprentices may not get sufficient opportunity to apply the full range of required skills in the workplace during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. Therefore, a flexibility has been included in this EPA plan, allowing certain skills-based evidence to be captured in a simulated environment, for example, at the employer's or training provider's premises.
Allowing evidence from a simulated environment ensures at there is a fair opportunity for apprentices to gather skills-based evidence for the portfolio of evidence. This is where opportunities to collect evidence in the workplace are not available.
Any simulated evidence must reflect the apprentice’s usual work and be fully transferable to the workplace. The portfolio must include a statement from the employer or training provider confirming that the evidence provided from a simulated environment is entirely attributable to the apprentice.
For this apprenticeship, the apprentice must collect evidence from the workplace. However, if authentic workplace opportunities are not available for all the numbered elements or products from the skills outlined below, some of the numbered elements or products may be captured in a simulated environment, in line with the numbers noted below for each skill. Every effort should be made for the apprentice to access workplace evidence for all elements or products in the skills below before this flexibility is applied.
The skills in line for this flexibility are:
S7: Work at height, using access equipment and fall protection.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance, for example, witness statements, rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with 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 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:
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 can be computer or paper based.
The test will consist of 35 multiple-choice questions.
Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.
The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.
The apprentice must have 60 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 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 can take place remotely if the appropriate technology and systems are in place to prevent malpractice.
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.
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 assessment 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 assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must only observe upto three apprentices at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.
The EPAO must ensure that an apprentice being assessed cannot gain advantage from seeing what other apprentices being assessed are doing or by hearing answers to questions.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . practical assessment with questions
The practical assessment with questions must take 6 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment 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 assessment 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 assessment with questions before it starts. This does not count towards the assessment time.
The independent assessor must observe the following during the practical assessment:
Construction of a reinforcing steel assembly measuring 3.1m length x 2m width x 0.5m height.
The reinforcing steel assembly should contain one feature, such as a step, a penetration or an upstand. (If an upstand is used it must not be specified to a height that requires the use of access equipment)
General:
Steel reinforcing structure:
Typically, 30 minutes should be allocated within the EPA total time to interpret and extract relevant information from drawings and specifications.
Specification tolerances
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:
Questioning must occur during the practical assessment. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time.
The independent assessor must ask at least 3 questions during the practical assessment. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural breaks in work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. 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 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 questions must take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s, training provider'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 questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer or training provider 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 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 questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose of the independent assessor's questions is to assess 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 45 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. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
|
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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|---|---|---|
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Health and Safety
K3 K4 K9 S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 B1 |
Prioritises the health and safety of themselves and others in the working vicinity, by the use of signs, barriers and bar protectors at all times and by working in compliance with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance (K4, S1, S3, B1) Selects and uses personal protective equipment throughout the practical assessment in line with task requirements, organisational procedures and statutory regulations. (K3, S2) Applies manual handling techniques to move, lift and handle materials in line with task requirements and industry guidance. (K9, S6) Prepares and maintains the work area in line with industry guidance throughout the practical assessment. (S5)
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Explains the importance to themselves and the business of complying with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance. (S1) |
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Drawings, specifications and work planning
K11 K29 S8 S9 S19 |
Interprets information from drawings and specifications as required to support task completion. (K11, S8) Applies techniques to plan the order of the work and carry out pre-work and post build checks in line with the task requirements and industry guidance. (K29, S9, S19)
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None. |
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Hand and power tools
K13 S10 |
Uses hand and power tools, in line with task requirements and industry guidance. Stores hand and power tools, in line with organisational requirements. (K13, S10) |
Explains why hand and power tools should be correctly stored following their use. (K13, S10) |
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In situ steel fixing
K19 K20 K30 K31 K32 S4 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S23 B3 |
Taking ownership of the work, applies processes and techniques to build a reinforcing steel assembly with a feature in line with pass specification tolerances, task requirements and industry regulations, standards and guidance. (K31, S4, S23, B3) Applies techniques to measure, mark out, cut, bend, join and tie reinforcing steel in line with pass specification tolerances and task requirements. (K19, K20, K30, S12, S13, S15) Uses temporary construction bars and installs bracing to the steel assembly in line with task requirements and pass specification tolerances. (K32, S16, S17) Produces and installs steel supports to steel assembly in line with task requirements and pass specification tolerances. (S14) |
Optimises the quality of the reinforcing in-situ steel assembly by achieving 8 out of 10 specification distinction tolerances. (S12, S13, S14, S15, S17, S23) |
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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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|---|---|---|
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Environmental and sustainability
K27 S22 B2 |
Describes how they follow environmental and sustainability legislation and guidance, sort resources for re-use, recycling and disposal. Explains the impact of the construction industry on the environment and how this can be reduced when carrying out processes and by efficient use of resources. (K27, S22, B2) |
Explains how following sustainability regulations standards, and guidelines reduces the impact on the wider environment. (K27, S22) |
|
Working at height
K16 S7 |
Describes how they work safely at height whilst carrying steel fixing activities using access equipment and fall protection, in line with, organisational procedures and statutory requirements. (K16, S7) |
None. |
|
Steel installation techniques
K21 S11 S24 |
Describes how following written or verbal work instructions, they apply processes and techniques to install a minimum of two in-situ steel reinforcing structures and minimise the installation risks, in line with task requirements, industry and statutory regulations, standards and guidance. (K21, S11, S24) |
Explains how their choice of reinforcing steel insitu installation techniques achieves product efficiencies and minimise the risks. (K21, S24) |
|
Quality assurance
K18 S26 |
Describes how they follow quality assurance and monitoring processes in line with task requirements and organisational procedures. (K18, S26) |
Explains the benefits to the business and the operation of following quality assurance procedures. (K18, S26) |
|
Communication
K6 S18 |
Describes how they communicate verbally with others, to support ask completion, applying industry terminology in a way that is suitable for the context and audience. (K6, S18) |
None. |
|
Team working, ethics and equity, diversity and inclusion
K7 K24 K25 S20 S21 S25 B4 B6 |
Describes how they contribute to an inclusive workplace by taking account of individuals needs in relation to equity, diversity, and inclusion in line with regulations, guidance and principles. (K24, S20, B4) Describes how they apply team working principles, including the consideration of the wider build team to meet their team's work goals. (K7, S25, B6) Explains how they apply ethical principles to their role and how they have or would report unethical behaviour in line with organisational procedures. (K25, S21)
|
Explains the benefits to themselves and the business of reporting unethical behaviour. (K25, S21) Explains how their team focus supports wider build teams to meet their goals. (K7, S25)
|
|
Continuing professional development and well-being
K26 B5 |
Outlines learning and development they complete and record to support competence in their role. (B5) Describes mental and physical health considerations of themselves and others and identifies sources of support available for themselves and others. (K26)
|
None. |
| Grade | Minimum marks required | Maximum marks required |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | 0 | 22 |
| Pass | 23 | 35 |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the practical assessment with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA distinction the apprentice must achieve a distinction in the practical assessment with questions and the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, and a pass in the multiple-choice test. To achieve an overall EPA merit the apprentice must achieve a distinction in the practical assessment with questions, and a pass in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and the multiple-choice test.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Multiple-choice test | Practical assessment with questions | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Pass | Pass | Distinction | Pass |
| Pass | Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Pass | 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 if pass they need to re-sit or re-take one or more assessment methods, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
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.
Special considerations
The EPAO must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship is not aligned to professional recognition.
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Employer and Employee responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HASWA) Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). Reporting of Injuries Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences (RIDDOR). Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER). Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Asbestos awareness. Fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Working in confined spaces. Working at height. Electrical safety awareness Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K2
Safe systems of work: Site inductions, toolbox talks, risk assessments, method statements and hazard identification techniques. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K3
Safety control equipment and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K4
Provision for the safety of themselves and other affected by their work: use of personal fall protection equipment correctly, use of warning signs and physical barriers, making structures safe from access at all times. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K5
Awareness of standards and regulations associated with steel fixing activities: British standards, building regulations and manufacturers’ instructions and warranty. Impact on how these inform drawings and bending specifications. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K6
Verbal communication techniques and industry terminology. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K7
Principles of good team working. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K8
Awareness of traditional and modern methods of construction: on site and off-site building methods. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K9
Manual handling techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K10
Steel reinforcement: principles and characteristics. Reinforcing steel: shape, placement, types, grades, sizes, condition. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K11
Methods of interpreting relevant information from drawings and specifications. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K12
Basic principles of digital design and modelling systems. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K13
Steel fixing hand tools and power tools, use and storage techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K14
Steel reinforcing structures, types and building construction methods: cages, pile caps, columns, beams, slabs, walls. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K15
Components: types and production methods. L bars, U bars, splay bars, chairs. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K16
The principles and practices of working at height safely and the use of access and fall protection equipment. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K17
The types and uses of steel fixing material: bars, mesh, tying wire, spacers, supports, bar protection, couplers, temporary construction bars. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K18
Quality assurance requirements and monitoring processes of steel reinforcement installations. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K19
Techniques to measure and mark out reinforcing steel. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K20
Techniques to cut and bend reinforcing steel. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K21
Reinforcing steel in situ: installation, techniques and risks. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K22
Steel fixing using prefabricated products: installation and alignment into position, techniques and risks. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K23
The use of digital equipment for positioning: laser levels, theodolites, Global Positioning Systems. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K24
Legislative guidance relating to equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K25
Ethical principles: ethical and unethical behaviour and the routes for reporting unethical behaviour. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K26
Awareness of issues and common symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, plus where to go for help and the resources available. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K27
Awareness of environmental and sustainability regulations, how to use resources efficiently. Principles of Recycling, reuse, and safe disposal of waste. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K28
Employment types (self employed and employed), small business start up principles, tax responsibilities, roles and responsibilities. Back to Grading |
Multiple-choice test |
|
K29
Work planning and pre- work checking requirements and techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K30
Reinforcing steel joining and tying techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K31
Steel fixing features and build techniques: steps, penetrations, upstands. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K32
Steel components and bracing installation techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S2
Select and use personal protective equipment (PPE). Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S3
Protect others within the working vicinity through the use of barriers, signs, and bar protectors. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S4
Comply with industry regulations, standards, and guidance. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S5
Prepare and maintain a safe working area. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S6
Move, lift and handle materials. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S7
Work at height and use access and fall protection equipment. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S8
Interpret information from drawings and specifications. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S9
Plan order of works and carry out pre-work checks. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S10
Use and store hand tools and power tools. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S11
Apply processes and techniques to install a range of in-situ steel reinforcing structures, for example, columns, walls, pile caps and slabs. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S12
Measure and mark out reinforcing steel. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S13
Cut and bend reinforcing steel. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S14
Produce and install supports, for example, L bars, U bars, splay bars and chairs. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S15
Join and tie reinforcing steel. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S16
Use temporary construction bars. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S17
Install bracing within steel reinforcement. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S18
Communicate verbally with colleagues or customers using industry terminology. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S19
Complete post build checks. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S20
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion legislative guidance and principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S21
Apply ethical principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S22
Follow environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S23
Use processes and techniques to build reinforcing steel assembly with a: step, penetration or upstand feature. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S24
Follow work instructions - verbal or written. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S25
Applies team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S26
Follow quality assurance procedures. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Put health, safety and wellbeing first. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B2
Consider the environment when using resources and carrying out processes. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B3
Take ownership of given work. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
B4
Contribute to an inclusive and diverse culture. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B5
Seek learning and development opportunities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B6
Team-focus to meet team goals including, considering the wider build team. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and Safety
K3 K4 K9 S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 B1 |
Safety control equipment and how to use personal protective equipment (PPE). (K3) Provision for the safety of themselves and other affected by their work: use of personal fall protection equipment correctly, use of warning signs and physical barriers, making structures safe from access at all times. (K4) Manual handling techniques. (K9) |
Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance. (S1) Select and use personal protective equipment (PPE). (S2) Protect others within the working vicinity through the use of barriers, signs, and bar protectors. (S3) Prepare and maintain a safe working area. (S5) Move, lift and handle materials. (S6) |
Put health, safety and wellbeing first. (B1) |
|
Drawings, specifications and work planning
K11 K29 S8 S9 S19 |
Methods of interpreting relevant information from drawings and specifications. (K11) Work planning and pre- work checking requirements and techniques. (K29) |
Interpret information from drawings and specifications. (S8) Plan order of works and carry out pre-work checks. (S9) Complete post build checks. (S19) |
None |
|
Hand and power tools
K13 S10 |
Steel fixing hand tools and power tools, use and storage techniques. (K13) |
Use and store hand tools and power tools. (S10) |
None |
|
In situ steel fixing
K19 K20 K30 K31 K32 S4 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S23 B3 |
Techniques to measure and mark out reinforcing steel. (K19) Techniques to cut and bend reinforcing steel. (K20) Reinforcing steel joining and tying techniques. (K30) Steel fixing features and build techniques: steps, penetrations, upstands. (K31) Steel components and bracing installation techniques. (K32) |
Comply with industry regulations, standards, and guidance. (S4) Measure and mark out reinforcing steel. (S12) Cut and bend reinforcing steel. (S13) Produce and install supports, for example, L bars, U bars, splay bars and chairs. (S14) Join and tie reinforcing steel. (S15) Use temporary construction bars. (S16) Install bracing within steel reinforcement. (S17) Use processes and techniques to build reinforcing steel assembly with a: step, penetration or upstand feature. (S23) |
Take ownership of given work. (B3) |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Environmental and sustainability
K27 S22 B2 |
Awareness of environmental and sustainability regulations, how to use resources efficiently. Principles of Recycling, reuse, and safe disposal of waste. (K27) |
Follow environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S22) |
Consider the environment when using resources and carrying out processes. (B2) |
|
Working at height
K16 S7 |
The principles and practices of working at height safely and the use of access and fall protection equipment. (K16) |
Work at height and use access and fall protection equipment. (S7) |
None |
|
Steel installation techniques
K21 S11 S24 |
Reinforcing steel in situ: installation, techniques and risks. (K21) |
Apply processes and techniques to install a range of in-situ steel reinforcing structures, for example, columns, walls, pile caps and slabs. (S11) Follow work instructions - verbal or written. (S24) |
None |
|
Quality assurance
K18 S26 |
Quality assurance requirements and monitoring processes of steel reinforcement installations. (K18) |
Follow quality assurance procedures. (S26) |
None |
|
Communication
K6 S18 |
Verbal communication techniques and industry terminology. (K6) |
Communicate verbally with colleagues or customers using industry terminology. (S18) |
None |
|
Team working, ethics and equity, diversity and inclusion
K7 K24 K25 S20 S21 S25 B4 B6 |
Principles of good team working. (K7) Legislative guidance relating to equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. (K24) Ethical principles: ethical and unethical behaviour and the routes for reporting unethical behaviour. (K25) |
Follow equity, diversity and inclusion legislative guidance and principles. (S20) Apply ethical principles. (S21) Applies team working principles. (S25) |
Contribute to an inclusive and diverse culture. (B4) Team-focus to meet team goals including, considering the wider build team. (B6) |
|
Continuing professional development and well-being
K26 B5 |
Awareness of issues and common symptoms and warning signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, plus where to go for help and the resources available. (K26) |
None |
Seek learning and development opportunities. (B5) |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 | Occupational standard, end-point assessment plan and funding band revised. | 15/03/2024 | Not set | Not set |
| 1.1 | Funding band, standard and end-point assessment plan revised. | 21/05/2021 | 14/03/2024 | Not set |
| 1.0 | Retired | 16/05/2017 | 20/05/2021 | Not set |
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