A new best practice guide has been released by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to help apprentices in England understand their end-point assessment. This assessment takes place at the conclusion of their training to ensure they are competent in their chosen occupation.
The end-point assessment checks the knowledge, skills, and behaviours learned throughout an apprenticeship. Each apprenticeship has a specific assessment plan, which outlines the methods used. These methods must include a minimum of two distinct approaches, such as practical assessments, projects, interviews, presentations, written tests, or workplace observations.
End-point assessments are carried out by an independent end-point assessment organisation (EPAO), separate from the training provider. Apprentices are advised to discuss assessment expectations, timelines, and available practice materials with their employer and training provider during induction.
Before the end-point assessment, apprentices enter a 'gateway' period where their employer and training provider determine if they are ready. If an apprentice fails their end-point assessment, they have the option to resit components without further training or retake after additional training. However, resits or retakes are not permitted to improve a passing grade.