Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST1334
  3. Version: 1.0
  4. Level: 3
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 18 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 3 months
  7. Maximum funding: £10000
  8. Route: Construction and the built environment
  9. Date updated: 19/09/2023
  10. Approved for delivery: 8 June 2023
  11. Lars code: 711
  12. EQA provider: Ofqual
  13. Review: this apprenticeship will be reviewed in accordance with our change request policy.
Print apprenticeship summary

Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Set out and lay bricks, brick specials, blocks and other materials.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the built environment including in the new build, refurbishment and heritage sectors. Projects vary in size, type and duration, ranging from the creation of specialist features such as arches and chimneys for a domestic customer to the repair of a listed building to a large-scale commercial project utilising multiple facework types, techniques and materials. Employers of craft bricklayers vary in size from small companies to large commercial contractors. Craft bricklayers are masters in their field and often provide technical leadership and supervise the work of others.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to set out and lay bricks, brick specials, blocks and other materials to construct and repair complex walls and features such as chimneys, battered, angled, radial and decorative masonry work. Craft bricklayers plan and organise the work site, both for themselves and others and verify the quality of the work of others within their team. They are technical experts in their team, providing direction and advice to others and advise on work approach and problem solving. They are responsible for ensuring the masonry element of the construction programme is delivered to specification, time and in a safe and sustainable manner. Craft bricklayers typically work outdoors on construction sites, in most weathers and at height.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their immediate team and the site management team on all masonry aspects of the construction programme including planning, technical expertise and project progress. They often liaise with other construction trades such as site carpenters and roofers who could work for their own organisation or another contractor. As the technical lead for masonry they are also expected to liaise with other construction professionals for example the clerk of works and site engineer and in the case of smaller specialist projects, the client, architect and building control surveyor.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for ensuring the products they and their team create are of a high quality and meet standards, specifications and design plans. They are expected to do this with due regard to all safety aspects involved with working on a construction site, ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of themselves and others at all times. With sustainable construction at the forefront of all projects, it is expected they would give consideration and advise others on the environment and sustainability of materials, waste awareness and recycling.

Typical job titles include:

Craft bricklayer Foreman bricklayer Senior bricklayer

Duties

  • Duty 1 Work in compliance with occupational health, safety and environmental requirements to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of self and others at all times.
  • Duty 2 Carry out their work in compliance with all current and relevant building regulations and quality standards, where appropriate checking the work of others for compliance.
  • Duty 3 Lead the bricklaying team in the delivery of the construction programme including interpreting technical specifications, manufacturers instructions and drawings, including digital information.
  • Duty 4 Plan and organise the work site including setting out the work site materials and tools appropriate to the project for self and others.
  • Duty 5 Plan the work to obtain optimum environmental, quality and schedule performance from the team, hand tools, power tools and associated equipment.
  • Duty 6 Construct complex masonry structures to industry standards and specifications.
  • Duty 7 Work effectively on their own and supervise others.
  • Duty 8 Maintain a clear and safe worksite at all times, promoting sustainable building practices.
  • Duty 9 Carry out continuous professional development to maintain knowledge of current and future developments affecting the role and share with others.
  • Duty 10 Proactively collaborate with stakeholders, clients and other construction trades, including programming and technical matters.
  • Duty 11 Repair, modify, maintain or replace a variety of masonry types.

Apprenticeship summary

ST1334, craft bricklayer level 3

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.

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

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:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction


EPA gateway

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:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, you must submit a portfolio of evidence

Assessment methods

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.
In the test you can have:

  • scientific calculator
  • pen and paper

The test administrator should provide this equipment in readiness for the test.

The test will have 40 multiple-choice questions. You will have 70 minutes to complete it.



Practical assessment with questions

You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 12 hours. They will ask you at least 6 questions.


Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 90 minutes. They will ask you at least 10 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.


Who to contact for help or more information

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.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the built environment including in the new build, refurbishment and heritage sectors. Projects vary in size, type and duration, ranging from the creation of specialist features such as arches and chimneys for a domestic customer to the repair of a listed building to a large-scale commercial project utilising multiple facework types, techniques and materials. Employers of craft bricklayers vary in size from small companies to large commercial contractors. Craft bricklayers are masters in their field and often provide technical leadership and supervise the work of others.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to set out and lay bricks, brick specials, blocks and other materials to construct and repair complex walls and features such as chimneys, battered, angled, radial and decorative masonry work. Craft bricklayers plan and organise the work site, both for themselves and others and verify the quality of the work of others within their team. They are technical experts in their team, providing direction and advice to others and advise on work approach and problem solving. They are responsible for ensuring the masonry element of the construction programme is delivered to specification, time and in a safe and sustainable manner. Craft bricklayers typically work outdoors on construction sites, in most weathers and at height.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their immediate team and the site management team on all masonry aspects of the construction programme including planning, technical expertise and project progress. They often liaise with other construction trades such as site carpenters and roofers who could work for their own organisation or another contractor. As the technical lead for masonry they are also expected to liaise with other construction professionals for example the clerk of works and site engineer and in the case of smaller specialist projects, the client, architect and building control surveyor.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for ensuring the products they and their team create are of a high quality and meet standards, specifications and design plans. They are expected to do this with due regard to all safety aspects involved with working on a construction site, ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of themselves and others at all times. With sustainable construction at the forefront of all projects, it is expected they would give consideration and advise others on the environment and sustainability of materials, waste awareness and recycling.

Typical job titles include:

Craft bricklayer Foreman bricklayer Senior bricklayer

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Work in compliance with occupational health, safety and environmental requirements to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of self and others at all times.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K30 K31

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S21 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 2 Carry out their work in compliance with all current and relevant building regulations and quality standards, where appropriate checking the work of others for compliance.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 3 Lead the bricklaying team in the delivery of the construction programme including interpreting technical specifications, manufacturers instructions and drawings, including digital information.

K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 4 Plan and organise the work site including setting out the work site materials and tools appropriate to the project for self and others.

K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K30 K31

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 5 Plan the work to obtain optimum environmental, quality and schedule performance from the team, hand tools, power tools and associated equipment.

K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S19 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 6 Construct complex masonry structures to industry standards and specifications.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 7 Work effectively on their own and supervise others.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 8 Maintain a clear and safe worksite at all times, promoting sustainable building practices.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28

S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S18 S19 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 9 Carry out continuous professional development to maintain knowledge of current and future developments affecting the role and share with others.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 10 Proactively collaborate with stakeholders, clients and other construction trades, including programming and technical matters.

K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 K31

S1 S2 S3 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

Duty 11 Repair, modify, maintain or replace a variety of masonry types.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K10 K11 K12 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 K24 K25

S1 S2 S3 S4 S6 S7 S8 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S24

B1 B2 B3 B4 B5 B6

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Awareness of health, safety and welfare regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role of the team and other construction trades . Employer and employee responsibilities. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH). Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Asbestos awareness. Manual handling. Fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Working in confined spaces. Working at height. Electrical safety. Reporting injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences regulations (RIDDOR), Provision and use of work equipment regulations (PUWER) & near miss reporting, signage and meaning Back to Duty

K2: Safety Control equipment and safety techniques: Personal protective equipment (PPE), respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and dust suppression Back to Duty

K3: Types incidents - accidents, near misses. Mitigation methods. Incident management techniques Back to Duty

K4: Safe systems of work, control measure implementation and monitoring techniques Back to Duty

K5: Environmental management systems and standards. Environmental Protection Act. Surface water management plan, Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: water, noise, air pollution, smells, spills, waste and disposal of hazardous waste. Back to Duty

K6: The importance and considerations of the environment: U values, R Values, thermal bridging, airtightness, acoustic performance, and applicable building regulations Back to Duty

K7: The principles of building construction: Fire safety, fire stopping, water ingress, masonry defects, concrete defects, timber defects and repair. Structural stability incl. brick ties. Gas barriers. Retaining walls. Mortar additives, Brick specials. Back to Duty

K8: Transfer levels, methods and techniques; straight edge and spirit level, optical and laser levels Back to Duty

K9: Modern Methods of Construction: Timber frame. Steel frame, Insulated Concrete Forms, Modular and concrete frames, Cross Laminated Timber Frames Back to Duty

K10: The principles of heritage building, considerations, like for like wall replacement and other techniques applicable to the bricklayer Back to Duty

K11: Standards and regulations associated with bricklaying activities: British standards, building regulations, warranty provider standards and new homes quality board Back to Duty

K12: Methods of interpreting information from drawings, specifications, the production plan and producing work instructions, utilising traditional and digital methods Back to Duty

K13: Resource quantity calculation techniques, costing, wastage and recycling allowance Back to Duty

K14: Stock, material stock and considerations: Availability, stock lead times. Correct handling to prevent damage. Stock value. Faulty stock and returns process, stock rotation and quality control Back to Duty

K15: Craft bricklayer tools, safe use and maintenance techniques: sliding bevels, trammels, squares, straight edges, site protractors, spring dividers, angle rules and scutch, masonry cut off saws Back to Duty

K16: Powertools check, safe use, maintenance and storage, defect or fault escalation Back to Duty

K17: Craft brickwork techniques: basket weave, stack bond, victorian bond, segmental and semi arches, rough and axed, battered work, tumbling in, brick and block bonded quoins, dog toothing and dental courses. Back to Duty

K18: Axed arches and surrounding haunch brickwork: Setting out and construction techniques Back to Duty

K19: Curved on plan masonry: setting out and construction techniques Back to Duty

K20: Sloped (vertical angles on plan) brickwork setting out and construction techniques Back to Duty

K21: Decorative brick features and panels: setting out and construction techniques Back to Duty

K22: Setting out and construction techniques: herringbone panels and masonry corbelling Back to Duty

K23: Masonry reinforcement and specialist systems masonry purpose and use: Bed joint reinforcement, shelf angle, wind posts, helical bar and specialist DPC (damp proof course) systems Back to Duty

K24: Angled on plan, off square masonry, setting out and construction techniques Back to Duty

K25: Fireplaces and chimney setting out, construction and materials: hearths, plinths, flue liners, chimney pots Back to Duty

K26: Written communication techniques. Plain English principles. Back to Duty

K27: Documentation methods and requirements - digital and paper based Back to Duty

K28: Planning, work scheduling, and time management techniques for self and others Back to Duty

K29: Quality assurance requirements Back to Duty

K30: Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support Back to Duty

K31: Inclusion, equity and diversity in the workplace Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance Back to Duty

S2: Apply environmental and sustainable principles in compliance with regulations standards and systems for example segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal Back to Duty

S3: Implement and monitor safe systems of work and control measures Back to Duty

S4: Comply with industry standards, guidance and tolerances Back to Duty

S5: Identify and use safety control equipment including RPE, dust suppression and PPE Back to Duty

S6: Interpret and extract information using paper based or digital techniques from drawings, specifications and the production plan to provide work instructions Back to Duty

S7: Check, safely use and store power tools and equipment for example, drills, mixers. Escalate defects or faults Back to Duty

S8: Safely use and maintain tools and masonry cut off saws Back to Duty

S9: Calculate resource and cost quantities from site measurements Back to Duty

S10: Set out and build sloped (vertical on plan) angled brickwork for example, battered work or tumbling in Back to Duty

S11: Set out and build off square horizontal on plan angled masonry work for example: obtuse or acute angles Back to Duty

S12: Set out and build axed arches and surrounding haunch brickwork, for example segmental or semi Back to Duty

S13: Set out and build a decorative brick features, for example brick and block bonded quoins, dog toothing or dental courses Back to Duty

S14: Set out and build curved masonry work for example, concave or convex Back to Duty

S15: Set out and build a decorative panel. For example, basket weave, stack bond or victorian weave Back to Duty

S16: Construct walls with complex elements. For example, bed joint reinforcement, helical bar, wind posts, support angles, specialist DPC systems or heritage principles (like for like wall replacement) Back to Duty

S17: Set out and build herringbone panels Back to Duty

S18: Set out and building masonry corbelling Back to Duty

S19: Apply planning, work scheduling and time management techniques to identify and agree production plan targets Back to Duty

S20: Apply quality assurance procedures Back to Duty

S21: Communicate and report in written form any issues against the production plan and contribute to the solutions   Back to Duty

S22: Obtain, monitor and rotate stock and supplies Back to Duty

S23: Complete documentation - paper based or digital. For example, job sheets, time sheets, risk assessments, method statements, equipment service records, handover documents, work sheets, checklists, incident reports, requisition sheets, quality records Back to Duty

S24: Transfer levels, using for example straight edge & spirit level, optical or laser levels Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Take personal responsibility for their own health and safety Back to Duty

B2: Support an inclusive culture Back to Duty

B3: Take responsibility for the quality of work and encourage others to work to high standards Back to Duty

B4: Collaborate and promote teamwork across disciplines and external stakeholders Back to Duty

B5: Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice Back to Duty

B6: Promotes health, safety, environment and sustainability principles to others Back to Duty

Qualifications

English and Maths

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.

Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.0

Introduction and overview

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the craft bricklayer apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.

Craft bricklayer apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

A full-time craft bricklayer apprentice typically spends 18 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 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 register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).

This EPA has 3 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are below.

Assessment method 1 - multiple-choice test:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Assessment method 2 - practical assessment with questions:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

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

  • merit

  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme - typically 18 months

The apprentice must:

  • complete training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) outlined in this apprenticeship’s occupational standard
  • complete training towards English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules

  • compile a portfolio of evidence

End-point assessment gateway

The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship.

The apprentice must:

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

For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.

The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including 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:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Practical assessment with questions:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction

Duration of end-point assessment period

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 the EPA should start as quickly as possible.

EPA gateway

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:

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

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

The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.

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 15 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, for example:
  • 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.

Simulated environments.

It is understood that some skills are used less often but are still required for overall occupational competence. Some apprentices may not apply the skills 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. A simulated environment means simulated work carried out at the employers or training providers premises.

Allowing evidence from a simulated environment ensures that 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.

Employers must confirm and verify any simulated evidence reflects the apprentice’s usual work and is fully transferable to the workplace. The employer or training provider must confirm the simulated evidence is the apprentice’s own work.

For this apprenticeship, the apprentice must, as a minimum, collect evidence from the workplace for three out of the four skill requirements listed below. One of the four skill requirements may be carried out in a simulated environment if authentic workplace opportunities are not available. Every effort should be made for the apprentice to access workplace evidence for all four skills before this flexibility is applied.

The four skills in line for this flexibility are:

1. S11: Set out and build, off square, horizontal on plan angled masonry work for example: obtuse or acute angles.

2. S14: Set out and build curved masonry work for example, concave or convex.

3. S17: Set out and build masonry herringbone.

4. S18: Set out and build masonry corbelling.

Simulated environments must:

• afford the apprentice the opportunity to capture sufficient evidence to underpin the grading descriptors for the specific skill being targeted

• have a scenario and specification of defined tasks for the apprentice to complete (or an equivalent structure or format)

• replicate normal working conditions and the naturally occurring activities the apprentice would have likely undertaken in the workplace, as far as practicable (including time pressures, considerations, resources, materials, tools, information, interactions, communication media, lighting, noise and hazards they would reasonably encounter in employer or customer premises)

• allow each apprentice to demonstrate their competence on an individual basis

Order of assessment methods



Multiple-choice test

Overview

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.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • it allows for the efficient testing of knowledge where there is a right or wrong answer
  • it allows for flexibility in terms of when, where and how it is taken.

Delivery


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 40 multiple-choice questions.

Multiple-choice questions must have four options, including one correct answer.

The apprentice must be given at least 14 days’ notice of the date and time of the test.

Test administration

The apprentice must have 70 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 following equipment is allowed to be used during the test:

  • scientific calculator
  • pen and paper

The test administrator should provide this equipment in readiness for 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.

Marking

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.

Assessment location

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:

  • independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • test specification
    • sample test and mark schemes
    • live tests and mark schemes
    • 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.

Practical assessment with questions

Overview

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.

Rationale

This EPA method is being used because:

  • it allows for a varied range of tasks to be observed, that could not be guaranteed to be achieved through a single observation in the workplace
  • this is a practical role, best demonstrated through completing tasks in a realistic work setting
  • it allows for consistency of activities to be completed and efficiency in scheduling
  • it allows for the testing of related underpinning knowledge, skills and behaviours where an opportunity to observe them has not occurred
  • it is a holistic assessment method

Delivery

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 up to four apprentices at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.

The EPAO must give an apprentice 14 days' notice of the . practical assessment with questions

The practical assessment with questions must take 12 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 may take place in parts but must be completed over 2 working day. A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long. The reason for this split is there is insufficient time to complete the practical task in one working day.

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:

  • brick axed arch including haunch surround: segmental or semi, minimum span 450mm, a minimum of one voussoir must be cut using hand tools. (arch pillars must be prefabricated prior to the assessment)
  • brick sloped vertical angle work: tumbling in or battered, minimum 6 courses height
  • decorative walling: brick and block projected quoins, brick dog toothing or brick dental courses, minimum length or height 900mm
  • brick decorative panel: basket weave, stack bond or victorian weave, minimum size 665mm length by 375mm height

All work should be half round jointed.

Typically, 60 minutes of the total practical assessment time should be allocated for the interpretation of drawings and setting out.

To ensure reliable assessment the tasks will vary but will provide equal challenge. The EPAO will provide the apprentice with a practical assessment specification taken from a bank of practical assessment specifications. Where more than one apprentice is being observed in the same location, each apprentice must be provided with a different practical assessment specification.

Preparation for the EPA:

Where the EPA is administered at the employers or training providers premises, the EPAO may liaise with the employer or training provider to provide resource, set up and equipment requirement information in preparation for the practical activity. Where this is the case, the EPAO must put measures in place to prevent malpractice and reduce predictability.

Arch pillars and other resources required for the practical assessment such as arch centres etc must be pre-fabricated by the EPAO or on behalf of the EPAO prior to the assessment and provided to the apprentice on the day. The voussoir template for the axed arch and all brick cuts must be carried out by the apprentice. An additional competent person may be present to mix mortar and move materials as required.

The EPAO is ultimately responsible for the preparation and quality of resources and equipment to ensure fair assessment.

Tolerances and criteria:

Standard tolerances (apply to standard walling and non-specific feature work)

  • plumb: pass: + or - 3mm per 1m
  • level: pass: + or - 3mm per 1m
  • gauge: pass: + or - 3mm per 1m
  • range: pass: + or - 3 mm per 1m

Craft bricklaying techniques, specific criteria:

Note: a visual discrepancy should be measured as a defect greater than 15mm in diameter, such as chips, marks, mortar splashes or jointing defect.

Arch and surrounding brick work:

  • voussoir joint size deviation: pass: + or - 4mm or distinction: + or - 2mm
  • voussoir alignment to striking point deviation: pass: + or - 4mm or distinction: + or - 2mm
  • voussoir cut size equal in shape and size no deviation more than: pass: + or - 4mm or distinction: + or - 2mm
  • haunch cuts no joint size deviation more than: pass + or - 4mm or distinction + or - 2mm
  • haunch maintains perp alignment with standard walling: pass + or -4mm or distinction + or - 2mm
  • visual discrepancies: pass, maximum 4 or distinction, maximum 2

Sloped vertical angle brickwork:

  • slope angle alignment deviation: pass + or - 4mm or distinction + or - 2mm
  • joint alignment deviation: pass + or - 4mm or distinction + or - 2mm
  • joint size deviation: pass: + or - 4mm or distinction: + or - 2mm
  • visual discrepancies: pass, maximum 4 or distinction, maximum 2

Decorative brickwork panel:

  • pattern maintained: pass - the apprentice must maintain the pattern of the decorative panel to be awarded this pass criteria
  • joint alignment deviation: pass + or - 4mm or distinction + or - 2mm
  • joint size deviation: pass: + or - 4mm or distinction: + or - 2mm
  • visual discrepancies: pass, maximum 4 or distinction, maximum 2

Decorative brick walling

  • joint alignment deviation: pass + or - 4mm or distinction + or - 2mm
  • joint size deviation: pass: + or - 4mm or distinction: + or - 2mm
  • projections or angle position deviation: pass: + or - 4mm or distinction: + or - 2mm
  • visual discrepancies: pass, maximum 4 or distinction, maximum 2

For a pass to be applied the apprentice should achieve all the pass criteria, standard tolerances and pass grading descriptors. For a distinction to be applied the apprentice should also, achieve at least 14 out of 17 distinction criteria, with at least 2 distinction criteria being achieved from each craft techniques, plus the distinction grading descriptors.

These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The independent assessor must ask questions. This is to show further depth of understanding.

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

Assessment location

The practical assessment 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 assessment with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.

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 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:

  • 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.

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

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 will allow some KSBs which may not naturally occur in every workplace or may take too long to observe to be assessed and allow for the assessment of a disparate set of KSBs
  • an interview enables the apprentice to evidence a deeper level of competence and understanding

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 of the independent assessor's questions is to cover the following themes:

  • safe systems of work
  • environment and sustainability
  • interpreting information and planning
  • documentation
  • stock
  • craft bricklaying, complex techniques and levelling
  • quality assurance
  • well-being, inclusion and CPD

The EPAO must give an apprentice 14 days' 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 90 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 10 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 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 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:

  • 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.

Grading

Practical assessment with questions

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
Health and safety
K2 S1 S5 B1

Takes responsibility for their own health and safety in compliance with regulations, standards and guidance throughout the craft bricklaying activities. (S1, B1)

Selects and uses safety control equipment, including RPE, PPE and dust suppression, as required, throughout the craft bricklaying activities. Uses safety control equipment in line with manufacturer’s instructions, organisational and statutory requirements. (K2, S5) 

Explains the benefits for individuals and the business of compliance with health and safety regulations and standards and the consequences of non-compliance (S1).

Use of hand and power tools
K15 S8

Safely uses tools, including a masonry cut off saw and applies techniques to maintain tools and the masonry cut off saw in line with industry guidance, organisational requirements and manufacturer’s instructions. (K15, S8)

Justifies the importance of carrying out maintenance of tools and the masonry cut off saw in line with manufacturers’ instructions and organisational requirements. (K15, S8) 

Complex and decorative craft bricklaying techniques
K18 K20 K21 S4 S10 S12 S13 S15

Applies techniques to set out and build an axed arch, including the surrounding haunch in line with the practical specification and pass specific criteria. (K18, S12)

Applies techniques to set out and build sloped vertical angle brick work in line with the practical specification and pass specific criteria. (K20, S10)

Applies techniques to set out and build a decorative brick panel and a decorative brick feature in line with the practical specification and pass specific criteria. (K21, S13, S15)

Complies with industry standards and guidance throughout the craft bricklaying activity and completes all craft bricklaying activities in line with standard tolerances. (S4)

Optimises the quality of the craft bricklaying practical activity by achieving at least 14 out of 17 distinction specific criteria including a minimum of two distinction specific criteria from each of the craft bricklaying techniques listed in the specific criteria. (S10, S12, S13, S15)

 

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

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
Safe systems of work
K4 S3

Describes how they implement safe systems of work and control measures to bricklaying tasks. Explains how they apply monitoring techniques to ensure safe systems of work and control measures are fully fulfilled and applied continuously throughout the task. (K4, S3)

Justifies how chosen control measures and safe systems of work have the potential to minimise risks or hazards to themself and others. (K4, S3)

Environment and sustainability
S2

Describes how they apply environmental and sustainability principles in compliance with regulations and standards when carrying out tasks such as segregating resources for reuse, recycling and disposal of waste. (S2)

Explains how their application of environmental and sustainability principles and regulations contribute to reducing the impact of construction works on the environment. (S2)

 

Interpreting information and planning
K12 K26 K28 S6 S19 S21 B4 B6

Describes how they interpret and extract information from drawings, specifications and the production plan via paper based or digital means. Explains how they use the information gathered to provide clear work instructions which promote health and safety and environmental and sustainability principles to the team. (K12, S6, B6)

Explains how they apply planning, work scheduling and time management techniques to identify and agree targets for themselves and others, in line with the production plan. (K28, S19)

Describes how they communicate and report issues in the production plan. Explains how they promote teamwork by collaborating across disciplines and external stakeholders to find solutions. (S21, B4)

Justifies their choice of planning, work scheduling and time management techniques, to achieve efficiencies in their own and others time. (K28, S19)

Documentation
K27 S23

Describes how they complete paper based or digital documentation relevant to the bricklaying role, in plain English and in line with organisational requirements. (K26, K27, S23)

 

 

None.

Stock
K14 S22

Describes how they obtain, monitor and rotate stock and supplies in line with organisational procedures. Explains stock value, lead times and their organisational process for returning faulty stock. (K14, S22)

Explains how they would manage a difficulty with sourcing stock or supplies in a typical bricklaying based scenario provided by the independent assessor. (K14, S22)

 

Craft bricklaying, complex techniques and levelling techniques
K8 K16 K19 K22 K24 S7 S11 S14 S16 S17 S18 S24

Describes how they set out and build curved masonry work inline with drawings or stakeholder instructions. (K19, S14)

Describes how they set out and build, off square, angled on plan masonry work, in line with drawings or stakeholder instructions. (K24, S11)

Describes how they set out and build herringbone masonry work and masonry corbelling in line with drawings or stakeholder instructions. (K22, S17, S18)

Describes how they set up, safely use, and store power tools such as drills or mixers in line with statutory requirements, safe systems of work and organisational requirements. Explains how they escalate faults or defects with power tools in line with organisational procedure. (K16, S7)

Describes how they construct walls with complex elements, for example, bed joint reinforcement, helical bar, wind posts, support angles, specialist DPC systems or heritage principles in line with drawings and specifications. (S16)

Explains how they transfer levels, using straight edge and level, optical or laser equipment when carrying out bricklaying tasks. (S24)

None.

Quality assurance
K29 S20 B3

Describes how they take responsibility for the quality of work and encourage others to work to high standards. Explains how they apply quality assurance monitoring processes to ensure their own and the teams bricklaying tasks meet drawing requirements and specification. (K29, S20, B3)

 

Justifies the importance of quality assurance procedures when carrying out bricklaying tasks, identifying potential issues that could arise in bricklaying tasks and how the use of quality assurance procedures prevents them. (K29, S19)

 

Well-being, inclusion and CPD
K30 K31 B2 B5

Describes mental and physical health considerations of themselves and others and identifies sources of support available for themselves and others. (K30)

Explains the learning they have completed and recorded to support competence in their role, showing a commitment to future CPD. (B5)

Explains how their inclusive working practices makes a difference to individuals and their business. (K31, B2)

 

 

None.

Multiple-choice test

Grade Minimum marks required Maximum marks required
Fail 0 24
Pass 25 32
Distinction 33 40

Overall EPA grading

Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:

  • fail

  • pass

  • merit

  • distinction

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 EPA merit, the apprentice must achieve a distinction in the practical assessment as well as a distinction in one other method and a pass in the other method. To achieve an EPA distinction, the apprentice must gain a distinction in all the assessment methods.

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
Any grade Fail Any grade Fail
Any grade Any grade Fail Fail
Fail Any grade Any grade Fail
Pass Pass Pass Pass
Distinction Pass Pass Pass
Pass Distinction Pass Pass
Pass Pass Distinction Pass
Distinction Pass Distinction Pass
Pass Distinction Distinction Merit
Distinction Distinction Pass Merit
Distinction Distinction Distinction Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

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.

Roles and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

  • complete on-programme training to meet the KSBs as outlined in the apprenticeship standard for a minimum of 12 months
  • complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules and as arranged by the employer and training provider
  • understand the purpose and importance of EPA
  • prepare for and undertake the EPA including meeting all gateway requirements

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the EPAO and training provider
  • work with the training provider, where applicable, to support the apprentice in the workplace and to provide the opportunities for the apprentice to develop the KSBs
  • arrange and support off-the-job training to be undertaken by the apprentice 
  • decide when the apprentice is working at or above the apprenticeship standard and is ready for EPA
  • ensure the apprentice is prepared for the EPA
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan
  • confirm arrangements with the EPAO for the EPA in a timely manner, including who, when, where
  • provide the EPAO with access to any employer-specific documentation as required for example, company policies
  • ensure that the EPA is scheduled with the EPAO for a date and time which allows appropriate opportunity for the apprentice to meet the KSBs
  • ensure the apprentice is given sufficient time away from regular duties to prepare for, and complete the EPA
  • ensure that any required supervision during the EPA period, as stated within this EPA plan, is in place
  • ensure the apprentice has access to the resources used to fulfil their role and carry out the EPA for workplace based assessments
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • pass the certificate to the apprentice upon receipt

EPAO

As a minimum, the EPAO must:

  • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner
  • conform to the requirements of the RoEPAO
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP)
  • understand the apprenticeship including the occupational standard and EPA plan
  • make all necessary contractual arrangements including agreeing the price of the EPA
  • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials, for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material
  • maintain and apply a policy for the declaration and management of conflict of interests and independence. This must ensure, as a minimum, there is no personal benefit or detriment for those delivering the EPA or from the result of an assessment. It must cover:
    • apprentices
    • employers
    • independent assessors
    • any other roles involved in delivery or grading of the EPA
  • have quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent assessment and maintain records of internal quality assurance (IQA) activity for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes
  • appoint independent, competent, and suitably qualified assessors in line with the requirements of this EPA plan
  • appoint administrators, invigilators and any other roles where required to facilitate the EPA
  • deliver induction, initial and on-going training for all their independent assessors and any other roles involved in the delivery or grading of the EPA as specified within this EPA plan. This should include how to record the rationale and evidence for grading decisions where required
  • conduct standardisation with all their independent assessors before allowing them to deliver an EPA, when the EPA is updated, and at least once a year
  • conduct moderation across all of their independent assessors decisions once EPAs have started according to a sampling plan, with associated risk rating of independent assessors
  • monitor the performance of all their independent assessors and provide additional training where necessary
  • develop and provide assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to all relevant stakeholders
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the apprenticeship
  • arrange for the EPA to take place in a timely manner, in consultation with the employer
  • provide information, advice, and guidance documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA
  • confirm the gateway requirements have been met before they start the EPA for an apprentice
  • arrange a suitable venue for the EPA
  • maintain the security of the EPA including, but not limited to, verifying the identity of the apprentice, invigilation and security of materials
  • where the EPA plan permits assessment away from the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary
  • confirm overall grade awarded
  • maintain and apply a policy for conducting appeals

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must:

  • be independent, with no conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider, specifically, they must not receive a personal benefit or detriment from the result of the assessment
  • have, maintain and be able to evidence up-to-date knowledge and expertise of the occupation
  • have the competence to assess the EPA and meet the requirements of the IQA section of this EPA plan
  • understand the apprenticeship’s occupational standard and EPA plan
  • attend induction and standardisation events before they conduct an EPA for the first time, when the EPA is updated, and at least once a year
  • use language in the delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the apprenticeship
  • work with other personnel, where used, in the preparation and delivery of assessment methods
  • conduct the EPA to assess the apprentice against the KSBs and in line with the EPA plan
  • make final grading decisions in line with this EPA plan
  • record and report assessment outcome decisions
  • comply with the IQA requirements of the EPAO
  • comply with external quality assurance (EQA) requirements

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must:

  • conform to the requirements of the register of apprenticeship training providers (RoATP)
  • ensure procedures are in place to mitigate against any conflict of interest
  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the KSBs as outlined in the occupational standard
  • deliver training to the apprentice as outlined in their apprenticeship agreement
  • monitor the apprentice’s progress during any training provider led on-programme learning
  • ensure the apprentice is prepared for the EPA
  • advise the employer, upon request, on the apprentice’s readiness for EPA
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA

An additional person required during the practical assessment

As a minimum, the competent person must:

  • be occupationally competent to perform the required role
  • follow a brief provided by the independent assessor which confirms what is required
  • be at the assessment venue and be in situ prior to the assessment
  • adhere to confidentiality about all aspects of the assessment
  • not provide guidance or influence the assessment outcome in any way
  • provide a written statement to confirm that the task is attributable to the apprentice

Marker

As a minimum, the marker must:

  • attend induction training as directed by the EPAO
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider
  • mark test answers in line with the EPAO’s mark scheme and procedures

Invigilator

As a minimum, the invigilator must:

  • attend induction training as directed by the EPAO
  • not invigilate an assessment, solely, if they have delivered the assessed content to the apprentice
  • invigilate and supervise the apprentice during tests and in breaks during assessment methods to prevent malpractice in line with the EPAO’s invigilation procedures

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

  • how an apprentice qualifies for 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.

Internal quality assurance

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:

  • 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

Value for money

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
  • assessing multiple apprentices simultaneously where the method of assessment permits this
  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition



Professional body recognition is not relevant to this occupational apprenticeship.

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

Awareness of health, safety and welfare regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role of the team and other construction trades . Employer and employee responsibilities. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (CoSHH). Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Asbestos awareness. Manual handling. Fire extinguishers. Safety signage. Situational awareness. Slips, trips, and falls. Working in confined spaces. Working at height. Electrical safety. Reporting injuries, diseases and dangerous occurrences regulations (RIDDOR), Provision and use of work equipment regulations (PUWER) & near miss reporting, signage and meaning

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K2

Safety Control equipment and safety techniques: Personal protective equipment (PPE), respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and dust suppression

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K3

Types incidents - accidents, near misses. Mitigation methods. Incident management techniques

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K4

Safe systems of work, control measure implementation and monitoring techniques

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K5

Environmental management systems and standards. Environmental Protection Act. Surface water management plan, Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: water, noise, air pollution, smells, spills, waste and disposal of hazardous waste.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K6

The importance and considerations of the environment: U values, R Values, thermal bridging, airtightness, acoustic performance, and applicable building regulations

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K7

The principles of building construction: Fire safety, fire stopping, water ingress, masonry defects, concrete defects, timber defects and repair. Structural stability incl. brick ties. Gas barriers. Retaining walls. Mortar additives, Brick specials.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K8

Transfer levels, methods and techniques; straight edge and spirit level, optical and laser levels

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K9

Modern Methods of Construction: Timber frame. Steel frame, Insulated Concrete Forms, Modular and concrete frames, Cross Laminated Timber Frames

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K10

The principles of heritage building, considerations, like for like wall replacement and other techniques applicable to the bricklayer

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K11

Standards and regulations associated with bricklaying activities: British standards, building regulations, warranty provider standards and new homes quality board

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K12

Methods of interpreting information from drawings, specifications, the production plan and producing work instructions, utilising traditional and digital methods

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K13

Resource quantity calculation techniques, costing, wastage and recycling allowance

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K14

Stock, material stock and considerations: Availability, stock lead times. Correct handling to prevent damage. Stock value. Faulty stock and returns process, stock rotation and quality control

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K15

Craft bricklayer tools, safe use and maintenance techniques: sliding bevels, trammels, squares, straight edges, site protractors, spring dividers, angle rules and scutch, masonry cut off saws

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K16

Powertools check, safe use, maintenance and storage, defect or fault escalation

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K17

Craft brickwork techniques: basket weave, stack bond, victorian bond, segmental and semi arches, rough and axed, battered work, tumbling in, brick and block bonded quoins, dog toothing and dental courses.

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K18

Axed arches and surrounding haunch brickwork: Setting out and construction techniques

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K19

Curved on plan masonry: setting out and construction techniques

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K20

Sloped (vertical angles on plan) brickwork setting out and construction techniques

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K21

Decorative brick features and panels: setting out and construction techniques

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K22

Setting out and construction techniques: herringbone panels and masonry corbelling

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K23

Masonry reinforcement and specialist systems masonry purpose and use: Bed joint reinforcement, shelf angle, wind posts, helical bar and specialist DPC (damp proof course) systems

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K24

Angled on plan, off square masonry, setting out and construction techniques

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K25

Fireplaces and chimney setting out, construction and materials: hearths, plinths, flue liners, chimney pots

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
K26

Written communication techniques. Plain English principles.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K27

Documentation methods and requirements - digital and paper based

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K28

Planning, work scheduling, and time management techniques for self and others

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K29

Quality assurance requirements

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K30

Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K31

Inclusion, equity and diversity in the workplace

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Skill Assessment methods
S1

Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S2

Apply environmental and sustainable principles in compliance with regulations standards and systems for example segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S3

Implement and monitor safe systems of work and control measures

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S4

Comply with industry standards, guidance and tolerances

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S5

Identify and use safety control equipment including RPE, dust suppression and PPE

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S6

Interpret and extract information using paper based or digital techniques from drawings, specifications and the production plan to provide work instructions

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S7

Check, safely use and store power tools and equipment for example, drills, mixers. Escalate defects or faults

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S8

Safely use and maintain tools and masonry cut off saws

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S9

Calculate resource and cost quantities from site measurements

Back to Grading
Multiple-choice test
S10

Set out and build sloped (vertical on plan) angled brickwork for example, battered work or tumbling in

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S11

Set out and build off square horizontal on plan angled masonry work for example: obtuse or acute angles

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S12

Set out and build axed arches and surrounding haunch brickwork, for example segmental or semi

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S13

Set out and build a decorative brick features, for example brick and block bonded quoins, dog toothing or dental courses

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S14

Set out and build curved masonry work for example, concave or convex

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S15

Set out and build a decorative panel. For example, basket weave, stack bond or victorian weave

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S16

Construct walls with complex elements. For example, bed joint reinforcement, helical bar, wind posts, support angles, specialist DPC systems or heritage principles (like for like wall replacement)

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S17

Set out and build herringbone panels

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S18

Set out and building masonry corbelling

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S19

Apply planning, work scheduling and time management techniques to identify and agree production plan targets

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S20

Apply quality assurance procedures

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S21

Communicate and report in written form any issues against the production plan and contribute to the solutions  

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S22

Obtain, monitor and rotate stock and supplies

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S23

Complete documentation - paper based or digital. For example, job sheets, time sheets, risk assessments, method statements, equipment service records, handover documents, work sheets, checklists, incident reports, requisition sheets, quality records

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S24

Transfer levels, using for example straight edge & spirit level, optical or laser levels

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Behaviour Assessment methods
B1

Take personal responsibility for their own health and safety

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
B2

Support an inclusive culture

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B3

Take responsibility for the quality of work and encourage others to work to high standards

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B4

Collaborate and promote teamwork across disciplines and external stakeholders

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B5

Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B6

Promotes health, safety, environment and sustainability principles to others

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Practical assessment with questions

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Health and safety
K2
S1 S5
B1

Safety Control equipment and safety techniques: Personal protective equipment (PPE), respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and dust suppression (K2)

Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance (S1)

Identify and use safety control equipment including RPE, dust suppression and PPE (S5)

Take personal responsibility for their own health and safety (B1)

Use of hand and power tools
K15
S8

Craft bricklayer tools, safe use and maintenance techniques: sliding bevels, trammels, squares, straight edges, site protractors, spring dividers, angle rules and scutch, masonry cut off saws (K15)

Safely use and maintain tools and masonry cut off saws (S8)

None

Complex and decorative craft bricklaying techniques
K18 K20 K21
S4 S10 S12 S13 S15

Axed arches and surrounding haunch brickwork: Setting out and construction techniques (K18)

Sloped (vertical angles on plan) brickwork setting out and construction techniques (K20)

Decorative brick features and panels: setting out and construction techniques (K21)

Comply with industry standards, guidance and tolerances (S4)

Set out and build sloped (vertical on plan) angled brickwork for example, battered work or tumbling in (S10)

Set out and build axed arches and surrounding haunch brickwork, for example segmental or semi (S12)

Set out and build a decorative brick features, for example brick and block bonded quoins, dog toothing or dental courses (S13)

Set out and build a decorative panel. For example, basket weave, stack bond or victorian weave (S15)

None

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Safe systems of work
K4
S3

Safe systems of work, control measure implementation and monitoring techniques (K4)

Implement and monitor safe systems of work and control measures (S3)

None

Environment and sustainability

S2

None

Apply environmental and sustainable principles in compliance with regulations standards and systems for example segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal (S2)

None

Interpreting information and planning
K12 K26 K28
S6 S19 S21
B4 B6

Methods of interpreting information from drawings, specifications, the production plan and producing work instructions, utilising traditional and digital methods (K12)

Written communication techniques. Plain English principles. (K26)

Planning, work scheduling, and time management techniques for self and others (K28)

Interpret and extract information using paper based or digital techniques from drawings, specifications and the production plan to provide work instructions (S6)

Apply planning, work scheduling and time management techniques to identify and agree production plan targets (S19)

Communicate and report in written form any issues against the production plan and contribute to the solutions   (S21)

Collaborate and promote teamwork across disciplines and external stakeholders (B4)

Promotes health, safety, environment and sustainability principles to others (B6)

Documentation
K27
S23

Documentation methods and requirements - digital and paper based (K27)

Complete documentation - paper based or digital. For example, job sheets, time sheets, risk assessments, method statements, equipment service records, handover documents, work sheets, checklists, incident reports, requisition sheets, quality records (S23)

None

Stock
K14
S22

Stock, material stock and considerations: Availability, stock lead times. Correct handling to prevent damage. Stock value. Faulty stock and returns process, stock rotation and quality control (K14)

Obtain, monitor and rotate stock and supplies (S22)

None

Craft bricklaying, complex techniques and levelling techniques
K8 K16 K19 K22 K24
S7 S11 S14 S16 S17 S18 S24

Transfer levels, methods and techniques; straight edge and spirit level, optical and laser levels (K8)

Powertools check, safe use, maintenance and storage, defect or fault escalation (K16)

Curved on plan masonry: setting out and construction techniques (K19)

Setting out and construction techniques: herringbone panels and masonry corbelling (K22)

Angled on plan, off square masonry, setting out and construction techniques (K24)

Check, safely use and store power tools and equipment for example, drills, mixers. Escalate defects or faults (S7)

Set out and build off square horizontal on plan angled masonry work for example: obtuse or acute angles (S11)

Set out and build curved masonry work for example, concave or convex (S14)

Construct walls with complex elements. For example, bed joint reinforcement, helical bar, wind posts, support angles, specialist DPC systems or heritage principles (like for like wall replacement) (S16)

Set out and build herringbone panels (S17)

Set out and building masonry corbelling (S18)

Transfer levels, using for example straight edge & spirit level, optical or laser levels (S24)

None

Quality assurance
K29
S20
B3

Quality assurance requirements (K29)

Apply quality assurance procedures (S20)

Take responsibility for the quality of work and encourage others to work to high standards (B3)

Well-being, inclusion and CPD
K30 K31

B2 B5

Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support (K30)

Inclusion, equity and diversity in the workplace (K31)

None

Support an inclusive culture (B2)

Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice (B5)

Employers involved in creating the standard: A&B Joinery, Association of Brickwork Contractors, Barratt Developments PLC, Bordercraft Group, City and Guilds, Dunchurch Brickwork, Fairgrove Homes, Federation of Master Builders, FMB, Galliard Homes, George Cook, Home Builders Federation, Lyons & Annoot Ltd, McCarthy and Stone, Morgan Sindall Group (Lovell Homes), Redrow, Saint Gobain, Taylor Wimpey, William Davis

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.0 Approved for delivery 08/06/2023 Not set Not set

Crown copyright © 2024. You may re-use this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. Visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence

Is this webpage useful?

Thank you for your feedback

Tell us about your experience