Aircraft maintenance technician

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the aircraft maintenance technician apprenticeship. This apprenticeship has integrated qualifications which are used for EPA purposes.

The awarding organisation (AO) is accountable for the mandated qualifications that are used as the integrated assessment methods (knowledge test and development competence assessment). The end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) must take responsibility for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence. EPAOs and AOs must work collaboratively to manage the delivery of the EPA.

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) have agreed a unique EPA model for those apprenticeships where the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the regulatory body for aviation within the UK, specifies the qualifying requirements for aircraft maintenance and aircraft worthiness.

Aircraft maintenance technician apprentices, their employers, training providers and other interested parties should read this document.

A full-time aircraft maintenance technician apprentice typically spends 36 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway). 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 typically lasting 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). The integrated assessment method must be conducted in line with the conditions set by the qualification's awarding organisation.

Occupational competence is outlined by the EPA grade descriptors. The integrated assessment methods must be graded by the awarding organisation, or the centre, where centre devised assessment is used. The EPA outcome is determined by the EPAO. The EPAO must combine the outcomes of integrated and non-integrated assessment methods to determine the apprentice’s overall grade.

This EPA has 3 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are below.

Assessment method 1 - knowledge test:

• fail

• pass

Assessment method 2 - development competence assessment:

• fail

• pass

Assessment method 3 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

• fail

• pass

• distinction

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

• fail

• pass

• distinction

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:

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

• have passed Level 2 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Foundation Competence) - Pearson BTEC; QAN 601/7165/0 -OR- Level 2 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Foundation Competence) C&G No.4605-02; QAN 601/7310/5 -OR- Level 2 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Military Foundation Competence) C&G No.4608-50; QAN 603/1388/2 -OR- Level 2 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Foundation Competence); EAL QAN 601/7289/7

• have passed Level 3 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Development Competence) 601/9051/6 – Pearson BTEC -OR- Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) C&G No.4608-30; QAN 601/9036/X -OR- Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) – Military C&G 4608-60; QAN 603/2068/0 -OR- EAL Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) – 603/0372/4

• have passed Level 3 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Development Technical Knowledge) 601/9063/2 – Pearson BTEC -OR- Level 3 Diploma in On-Aircraft Maintenance Category A C&G No. 2675-04; QAN 600/1927/X -OR- Level 3 Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance (Military) C&G No. 4708-30; QAN 603/1392/4

• submit a portfolio of evidence for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Portfolio of evidence requirements:

The apprentice must compile the 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:

• workplace documentation and records
• workplace policies and procedures
• witness statements
• annotated photographs
• video clips (maximum total duration 10 minutes); the apprentice must be in view and identifiable

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

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

The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the 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 knowledge test and development competence assessment must be passed and completed prior to the interview taking place.

This is an integrated assessment method. The knowledge statements aligned to this assessment method will be assessed by the apprentice passing one of the knowledge qualifications listed below:

• Level 3 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Development Technical Knowledge) 601/9063/2 – Pearson BTEC or,
• Level 3 Diploma in On-Aircraft Maintenance Category A C&G No. 2675-04; QAN 600/1927/X or,
• Level 3 Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance (Military) C&G No. 4708-30; QAN 603/1392/4

Overview

For the knowledge test assessment method, the apprentice completes one of the listed knowledge qualifications. This will give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method. The knowledge test must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

• it can assess knowledge it is easy to administer
• it can be conducted remotely and administered to multiple apprentices at the same time, potentially reducing cost.
• it reduces the assessment burden on the apprentice

Delivery

The delivery of the knowledge test, which is assessed by the integrated knowledge qualifications, must align with the conditions set out by the awarding organisation for the integrated qualifications. The knowledge can be tested using, for example, assignments, essays, multiple-choice tests or any other method of testing as determined by the AO.

The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks' notice of the date and time of any tests.

Test administration

The administration of the knowledge tests assessed by the integrated knowledge qualifications must align to the conditions set by the awarding organisation. The tests for the units or modules will either be set, marked and graded by the AO, or the AO may allow centre devised assessment.

Tests that are taken in a controlled environment must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the AO. The AO 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 AO is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The AO must ensure that their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test. The AO must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities.

Where centre devised assessments are used, the centre is responsible for invigilation in controlled environments including having an invigilation policy, and for the security of the tests including on-line testing.

Marking

The responsibility for the marking of the test is with the AO. They must produce a marking scheme to be followed. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this, for example multiple-choice tests. The AO is responsible for overseeing the marking, standardisation and moderation of the test.

To ensure marking judgements are fair and accurate, and uphold the principles of the EPA, the marking of all integrated or parts of the integrated assessments, must be marked or graded by someone independent of the apprentice.

Where centre devised assessments are used, the marking and grading must align with the conditions set by the AO.

Assessment location

Where the test is taken in a controlled and invigilated environment, this must be a quiet room, free from distractions and influence. The AO 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 AO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers or subject matter experts for this occupation. The AO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed 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 AO 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 AO must ensure that apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The AO must produce the following materials to support the test:

• administration materials
• moderation and standardisation materials
• guidance materials
• grading guidance
• specification
• sample test and mark schemes
• live tests and mark schemes
• question bank

The AO must ensure that the materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.

Where centre devised assessment is used, the question and resource development is the responsibility of the centre and should align to the conditions set by the AO.

This is an integrated assessment method. The KSBs aligned to this integrated assessment method will be assessed and graded in line with the requirements of the awarding organisation and contribute to the overall outcome of the apprenticeship and the qualification. The KSBs aligned to this assessment method will be assessed by the apprentice passing one of the development competence qualifications listed below.

To ensure the aligned KSBs are assessed, the details for each qualification, including mandating some units, are noted below. These requirements are to ensure assessment of KSBs and are outside the requirement to achieve the qualification:

Level 3 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation Engineering (Development Competence) 601/9051/6 – Pearson BTEC

• All mandatory units and at least 1 unit from 27, 29-31, 33, 34 or 48 - 54

Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) C&G No.4608-30; QAN 601/9036/X

• All mandatory units, and at least 1 unit from 309 - 312, or 314 - 328, or 335 - 353

Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) – Military C&G 4608-60; QAN 603/2068/0

• Completion of the qualification

EAL Level 3 Diploma in Aviation Maintenance (Development Competence) – 603/0372/4

• All mandatory units, any group B unit and at least 1 unit from group C 009 - 028, or 035 - 053

Overview

In the development competence assessment, an independent assessor completes the assessment of the apprentice in line with the requirements of the qualification. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

• this is a practical role which can be demonstrated through completing tasks
• it allows for consistency of opportunity for apprentices to demonstrate their competence against the mapped KSBs
• it assesses KSBs holistically and objectively
• it reduces the assessment burden on the apprentice

Delivery

The development competence assessment must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The delivery of the development competence assessment must align with the conditions set out by the AO for the integrated qualification.

The apprentice must be given notice of the development competence assessment.

Where the AO delivers the assessment, they 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 apprentice must have the format and timescales of the development competence assessment explained to them before the assessment starts.

The independent assessor must ask questions in line with the requirements of the qualification. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.

To ensure marking judgements are fair and accurate, and uphold the principles of the EPA, the marking of all integrated or parts of the integrated assessments, must be marked or graded by someone independent of the apprentice.

Where centre devised assessments are used, the centre is responsible for invigilation in controlled environments including having an invigilation policy, and for the security of any assessments. Where centre devised assessments are used, the marking and grading must align to the conditions set by the AO. To ensure marking judgements are fair and accurate, and uphold the principles of the EPA, the marking of all integrated or parts of the integrated assessments, must be marked or graded by someone independent.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

• the KSBs being assessed
• the apprentice’s answers to questions
• the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
• the grade achieved

Assessment location

The development competence assessment may take place in a simulated environment selected by the AO for example a training provider's premises, a training facility in the employer's premises, a test centre or a similar simulated environment. The environment must relate to the apprentice's natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the development competence assessment must be provided or organised by the AO who can liaise with the employer to provide these. Where centre devised assessment is used, the training provider or centre delivering the assessment is responsible for equipment and resources.

Question and resource development

The AO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers or subject matter experts for this occupation. The AO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification must be reviewed to ensure it remains 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 AO 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 AO must produce the following materials to support the development competence assessment:

• assessment materials which include:
  • training materials
  • administration materials
  • moderation and standardisation materials
  • guidance materials
  • grading guidance

The AO must ensure that the integrated qualification materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.

Where centre devised assessments are used, the question and resource development is the responsibility of the centre and should align to the conditions set by the AO.

Overview

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.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

• it assesses KSBs holistically and objectively
• it allows for the assessment of KSBs that do not occur on a predictable or regular basis
• it allows for assessment of responses where there are a range of potential answers
• it can be conducted remotely, potentially reducing cost.

Delivery

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:

• health, safety, environment and sustainability
• maintenance, installation and repair
• engineering
• problem solving and fault finding
• digital and information technology
• team working
• communication
• continual professional development
• quality assurance
• equity, diversity and inclusion

The EPAO must give an apprentice a minimum of 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 or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.

The independent assessor must make the grading decision.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

• the apprentice’s answers to questions
• the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
• the grade achieved 

Assessment location

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.

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 interview:

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

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

Performance in the EPA determines the apprenticeship grade of:

• fail

• pass

• distinction

An independent assessor must grade the interview in line with this EPA plan. The EPAO must be notified of the outcomes of the integrated assessment methods.

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

If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods, they will be awarded an overall fail. 

To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve a distinction, the apprentice must achieve a pass in the knowledge test and the development competence assessment and a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence.

Awarding organisations should make clear in their marking criteria which grade boundary for the integrated assessment method represents a pass grade for the EPA. This pass grade must reflect demonstration of occupational competence in the KSBs.

Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.

If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.

The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.

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

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

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

The EPAO, AO and training provider must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

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

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

The EPAO, AO and training provider must have special considerations arrangements for the EPA. This should include:

• how an apprentice qualifies for a special consideration
• what special considerations may be made

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 and AO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.

EPAOs and AOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.

EPAOs must also appoint independent assessors who:

• have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 3 gained in the last 3 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector

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

• completing applicable assessment methods online (for example computer-based assessment)

• utilising digital remote platforms to conduct applicable assessment methods

• using the employer’s premises

This apprenticeship aligns with:

• Royal Aeronautical Society for Engineering Technician (EngTech)

This apprenticeship aligns with:

• Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) for Engineering Technician (EngTech)

This apprenticeship aligns with:

• Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) for Engineering Technician (EngTech)