Wholesale reforms, including new new standards, levy, and EPA, changed how UK apprenticeships work. In the past, apprentices were continually assessed throughout their programme. But the focus is now on learning more than assessment - culminating in the End Point Assessment
It means assessors' role has changed, but they're just as important. They just need to be more flexible and adaptable than ever before.
There has been a lot of change over the last few years, so Onefile has summarised the key things you need to know:
The most obvious change is the name of the role. Most assessors are now called mentors, coaches or tutors.
Assessors/mentors still need to plan learning around the standards - each of which is broken down into criteria, which can be worked into a plan.
Assessors are not allowed to decide results in the end-point assessment - that's the job of a dedicated End Point Assessment Organisation. But assessors can support apprentices, evaluate their work, and send feedback along the way. Most apprentices will still collect a portfolio of evidence to showcase their skills, and to practise observations and professional discussions in preparation for the EPA. Assessors will still need to provide the same guidance as before.
Since the reforms, assessors have had to develop a whole new set of skills to meet their own targets. In addition, with apprentices now graded, assessors can also measure performance of their learners.
Employers are now more involved in apprenticeships than ever before. Assessors need to work closely with them to plan activities, provide support, and make sure their learners are ready to take the EPA.
Assessors must collaborate more with their apprentices, too. With a hands-on role in apprentices' learning, it's important to build strong working relationships and provide reliable support.
To find out what you can do to give your assessors the support they need, download our free checklist. It's got 7 practical steps you can take to make the transition as smooth as possible.