This apprenticeship is for information only until a funding band decision is agreed. It is to replace pathway 13 in ST0457 Engineering technician with an agreed notice period in consultation.
This apprenticeship is in development and is subject to change
An apprenticeship is only available for delivery when both the standard and assessment plan is approved and a funding band (core government contribution) has been assigned to the standard.
If you'd like to get involved and contribute to the development of this apprenticeship, please read about developing standards and assessment plans. You can email the trailblazer contact using the details on this page.
Proposal approved
Occupational standard approved
End-point assessment plan approved
Funding approved
Engineering and manufacturing support technicians are found in the engineering and manufacturing sector. This includes the advanced manufacturing fields of aerospace, automotive, maritime, defence and nuclear. Engineering and manufacturing support technicians support the work of engineers by the provision of technical support and expertise for areas of the engineering and manufacturing function. This typically could include, engineering drawing, computer aided design (CAD), quality control, computerized numerical control programming (CNC), robotics, additive manufacturing, engineering or manufacturing software development and process engineering. The support provided is often complex in nature. They will be proactive in finding solutions to problems and identifying areas for improving the business. They organise and co-ordinate services for internal and external stakeholders. They contribute to the planning of work and resources to enable work to be carried out. Stakeholders are informed of progress of development work. They have good communication skills. They may contribute to problem solving. They support continuous improvements. Others may be involved in the implementation of such solutions. They will use technical software packages, typically computer aided design (CAD), or other specialist software, to produce design solutions for equipment or services. They inspect and test equipment or services and produce data from test results. They write technical reports and carry out audits for equipment or services.
The broad purpose of the engineering and manufacturing support technician is to provide the required level of technical assistance on areas of engineering or manufacturing. They report on processes and procedures using communications software, test analysis tools, measurement systems, offline programming, and quality control. They support production planning, scheduling, product technical applications and capability supporting continuous improvements. They support technical marketing sales and purchasing, product development and innovation. They investigate and review services, producing technical reports and documentation. They carry out inspections or tests to analyse products or services. Engineering and manufacturing support technicians typically work in engineering or manufacturing environments. They may also be required to work outdoors inspecting and testing products and processes.
In their daily work, an engineering and manufacturing support technician interacts with other engineers and technicians. They also interact with various stakeholders. They typically report to an engineering or manufacturing team leader. They may also interact with customers, suppliers, colleagues, quality auditors and regulators. They will be able to work with minimum supervision.
Engineering and manufacturing support technicians will be responsible for the quality, accuracy and timely completion of the work they undertake. They also must work efficiently. They must work both individually and as part of a larger team. They must work within the relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations and guidance. This includes the appropriate use of protective clothing and equipment. All work must be completed in a safe and efficient manner as directed by supervisory staff.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
|
Duty 1 Comply with statutory, quality, organisational, environmental, and health and safety regulations. |
K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K13 K14 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K23 |
|
Duty 2 Receive, read, and interpret engineering data and documentation. |
K2 K4 K5 K6 K7 K11 K13 K15 K19 K20 K21 K23 |
|
Duty 3 Identify problems within the engineering or manufacturing activity and contribute to the resolution and suitable solutions. |
K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K12 K13 K17 K18 K19 K20 K23 |
|
Duty 4 Organise engineering or manufacturing workflow, communicating with internal and external stakeholders. |
K1 K3 K4 K7 K9 K10 K12 K13 K14 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 5 Plan work, and resources to enable implementation of engineering or manufacturing tasks and projects. |
K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K18 K19 K20 K22 K23 |
|
Duty 6 Use appropriate technical software supporting the operation of processes or equipment. |
K1 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K11 K13 K18 K19 K23 |
|
Duty 7 Provide technical support operations in line with specific safe working practices and specification requirements. |
K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 |
|
Duty 8 Complete technical support activities for equipment, components, systems or processes and contribute to their product output. |
K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 |
|
Duty 9 Produce technical documentation, data and information to support engineering or manufacturing activities. |
K1 K2 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K11 K12 K13 K17 K18 K19 K21 K23 |
|
Duty 10 Carry out quality checks during and after the technical support operation. |
K1 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K12 K13 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K23 |
|
Duty 11 Handover and provide technical advice to stakeholders for engineering equipment and services. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K7 K9 K10 K12 K13 K14 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S10 S11 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 |
|
Duty 12 Support continuous improvement activities to address business needs. |
K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K12 K13 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 |
K1: The engineering or manufacturing function and role. Limits of autonomy and reporting channels. Different teams and functions involved within the operation and interdependencies.
Back to Duty
K2: Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Awareness of working in confined spaces. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Display Screen Equipment (DSE). Electrical safety and compliance. Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Lone working. Manual handling. Noise regulation. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER). Reporting of Injuries, Disease, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Risk assessments. Slips, trips, and falls. Working at height.
Back to Duty
K3: Environmental and sustainability regulations and guidance. Environmental hazards that can arise from engineering or manufacturing operations. Environmental Protection Act. Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Environmental permits. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Energy consumption. The Climate Change Agreements. Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC).
Back to Duty
K4: British standards for engineering representations, drawings, and graphical information.
Back to Duty
K5: Engineering standards and regulations, relevant to the occupation and technician's responsibilities. British Standards (BS). International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN).
Back to Duty
K6: Engineering mathematical techniques and scientific principles: calculations, conversions, graphical representation, rate of change, calculus, trigonometry, areas and volumes, mechanical and electrical principles, properties of materials.
Back to Duty
K7: Digitisation and emerging technologies within the engineering and manufacturing sector: connectivity, advanced analytics, automation, advanced manufacturing technology, additive manufacturing, improvements in robotics and human-machine interaction and Industry 4.0.
Back to Duty
K8: Problem solving techniques: diagnostics, root cause analysis.
Back to Duty
K9: Resource management requirements including equipment availability, costs, security and safety.
Back to Duty
K10: Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. Work management systems. Work categorisation systems.
Back to Duty
K11: Engineering and manufacturing technical outputs: methods of representing technical information supporting organisational requirements - electronic and paper.
Back to Duty
K12: Requirements of supporting stakeholders for progress and handover of products or processes including status reports.
Back to Duty
K13: Documentation and recording information requirements.
Back to Duty
K14: Standard operating procedures (SOP). What they are and why they are important. What they need to cover and why. Visuals and symbols used in SOP.
Back to Duty
K15: Manufacturers’ instructions: what they are, why use them and how to use them. Warranties: what they are and impact on engineering or manufacturing work.
Back to Duty
K16: Quality management standards. Quality assurance, quality control principles and practices. Record keeping.
Back to Duty
K17: Continuous improvement techniques: lean, 6-sigma, KAIZEN, 5S plus safety (Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain).
Back to Duty
K18: Principles of team working.
Back to Duty
K19: Written communication techniques. Engineering terminology. Report writing.
Back to Duty
K20: Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience.
Back to Duty
K21: Information technology and digital: digital interfaces, email, Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, virtual communication, learning platforms, work collaboration platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), cyber security.
Back to Duty
K22: The Equality Act: requirements and impact on organisation. Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and their impact on organisations and customers.
Back to Duty
K23: Workplace training and development activities: continual professional development (CPD).
Back to Duty
S1: Follow health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance.
Back to Duty
S2: Follow procedures in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. For example, segregation of resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
Back to Duty
S3: Comply with engineering standards and regulations. For example, British Standards (BS), International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN).
Back to Duty
S4: Analyse engineering and manufacturing data and information to support technical outputs. For example, read and interpret text, data, engineering drawings, work instructions, method statements, operation manuals.
Back to Duty
S5: Apply scientific, technical or engineering principles.
Back to Duty
S6: Apply problem solving techniques to solutions for identified technical problems.
Back to Duty
S7: Organise, plan and prioritise workflow and scheduling of work with stakeholders.
Back to Duty
S8: Identify, organise and use resources to complete tasks, considering cost, quality, safety, security and environmental impact.
Back to Duty
S9: Produce job specific technical outputs. For example, engineering drawings, quality control management, computer control programming, business improvement, adverse incident reports, technical investigations, equipment appraisals and specifications.
Back to Duty
S10: Provide support and guidance for handover of work to stakeholders. For example, checklists, product or process status, access to supporting documents.
Back to Duty
S11: Record information - paper based or electronic. For example, energy usage, equipment service records, test results, handover documents, checklists.
Back to Duty
S12: Follow standard operating procedures.
Back to Duty
S13: Follow manufacturer's instructions. For example, safe instructions for use of products, processes and machinery.
Back to Duty
S14: Apply quality assurance and control principles and practices. For example, conduct physical checks, take samples, inspections or tests.
Back to Duty
S15: Apply continuous improvement techniques.
Back to Duty
S16: Apply team working principles.
Back to Duty
S17: Communicate in writing with others for example, stakeholders, colleagues, and managers.
Back to Duty
S18: Communicate with others verbally for example, colleagues and stakeholders.
Back to Duty
S19: Use information and digital technology. Comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations and policies.
Back to Duty
S20: Carry out and record learning and development activities.
Back to Duty
S21: Apply equity, diversity and inclusion procedures.
Back to Duty
B1: Take personal responsibility for and promote health and safety.
Back to Duty
B2: Considers the environment and sustainability.
Back to Duty
B3: Support diversity and social inclusion in the workplace.
Back to Duty
B4: Respond and adapt to work demands and situations.
Back to Duty
B5: Collaborate within teams, across disciplines and stakeholders.
Back to Duty
B6: Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD).
Back to Duty
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.
Level: 3
Ofqual regulated
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the engineering and manufacturing support technician apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Engineering and manufacturing support technician apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time engineering and manufacturing support technician apprentice typically spends 42 months on-programme. The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The EPA should be completed within an EPA period lasting typically 6 months.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must work with the training provider to select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship providers and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 2 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - work-based report with presentation and questioning:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:
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On-programme - typically 42 months
|
The apprentice must:
The qualification required is: EAL Level 3 Diploma in Engineering and manufacturing support technologies (QAN 610/4353/9)
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|---|---|
|
End-point assessment gateway
|
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the work-based report with presentation and questioning, the apprentice must submit a report subject, title and scope. To ensure the report allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade, the EPAO should sign-off the report’s title and scope at the gateway to confirm it is suitable.
For the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
|
End-point assessment - typically 6 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Work-based report with presentation and questioning:
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
|
|
Professional recognition
|
This apprenticeship aligns with:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
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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 6 months.
The EPAO should confirm the gateway requirements have been met and start the EPA as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements:
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain 11 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.
Evidence sources may include:
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
The work-based report with presentation and questioning assessment method involves the apprentice completing a significant and defined piece of work that has a real business application and benefit. This process may include for example, research, analysis, and the completion of tasks or activities to achieve the outcome. The assessment method will have an output at the end of the defined piece of work. The work completed for the work-based report with presentation and questioning assessment method must meet the needs of the employer's business and be relevant to the apprentice's occupation and apprenticeship.
This assessment method has 2 components:
completion of the defined piece of work for the work-based report
presentation with questions and answers
Together, these components give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. They are assessed by an independent assessor.
This assessment method is being used because:
The apprentice must complete a defined piece of work for the work-based report based on any of the following:
To ensure the report allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade, the EPAO must sign-off the report's subject, title and scope at the gateway to confirm it is suitable. The EPAO must refer to the grading descriptors to ensure the report is pitched appropriately.
The output must be in the form of a report and presentation.
The apprentice must start the work-based report after the gateway. The employer should ensure the apprentice has the time and resources, within the report period, to plan and complete their report.
The apprentice may work as part of a team to complete the work-based report, which could include internal colleagues or technical experts. The apprentice must however, complete their report and presentation unaided and they must be reflective of their own role and contribution. The apprentice and their employer must confirm this when the report and any presentation materials are submitted.
The report must include at least:
The report must also include:
The report must have a word count of 3000 words. A tolerance of 10% above or below is allowed at the apprentice’s discretion. Appendices, references and diagrams are not included in this total. The apprentice must produce and include a mapping in an appendix, showing how the report evidences the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice must complete and submit the report and any presentation materials to the EPAO by the end of week 20 of the EPA period.
The presentation 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.
The apprentice must prepare and deliver a presentation to an independent assessor. After the presentation, the independent assessor must ask the apprentice questions about their report and presentation.
The presentation should cover:
The presentation with questions must last 50 minutes. This will typically include a presentation of 20 minutes and questioning lasting 30 minutes. The independent assessor must use the full time available for questioning. The independent assessor can increase the time of the presentation and questioning by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete their last point or respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. They 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 purpose of the independent assessor's questions is:
The apprentice must submit any presentation materials to the EPAO at the same time as the report - by the end of week 20 of the EPA period. The apprentice must notify the EPAO, at that point, of any technical requirements for the presentation.
During the presentation, the apprentice must have access to:
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the work-based report and any presentation materials, to allow them to prepare questions.
The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the presentation with questions.
The apprentice may choose to end the presentation with questioning early. The apprentice must be confident they have demonstrated competence against the assessment requirements for the assessment method. The independent assessor or EPAO must ensure the apprentice is fully aware of all assessment requirements. The independent assessor or EPAO cannot suggest or choose to end the assessment methods early, unless in an emergency. The EPAO is responsible for ensuring the apprentice understands the implications of ending an assessment early if they choose to do so. The independent assessor may suggest the assessment continues. The independent assessor must document the apprentice’s request to end the assessment early.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision. They must assess the components of this assessment method holistically when deciding the grade.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The presentation with questions must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises. It should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The presentation with questions 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 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.
EPAO must produce the following materials to support the work based report:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
This assessment method is being used because:
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose is to assess the apprentice’s competence against the following themes:
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 70 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.
The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The apprentice may choose to end the assessment method early. The apprentice must be confident they have demonstrated competence against the assessment requirements for the assessment method. The independent assessor or EPAO must ensure the apprentice is fully aware of all assessment requirements. The independent assessor or EPAO cannot suggest or choose to end the assessment methods early, unless in an emergency. The EPAO is responsible for ensuring the apprentice understands the implications of ending an assessment early if they choose to do so. The independent assessor may suggest the assessment continues. The independent assessor must document the apprentice’s request to end the assessment early.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview 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.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
|
|---|---|---|
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Health and safety
K2 S1 B1 |
Applies safe systems of work, following procedures in compliance with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance taking responsibility to promote health and safety. (K2, S1, B1) |
Justifies the importance of compliance with safe systems of work, following procedures, and taking responsibility for themselves, as well as promoting safety to others in the wider team. (S1, B1) |
|
Engineering standards and regulations (BS, ISO, EN)
K5 S3 |
Complies with engineering standards and regulations relevant to the occupation and technician's responsibilities, when completing tasks. (K5, S3) |
Justifies the importance of compliance with engineering national and international standards, for work carried out on products or processes. (K5, S3) |
|
British standards technical drawings and representations
K4 S4 |
Analyse engineering and manufacturing data and information to make informed decisions and support technical outputs in line with task requirements. (K4, S4) |
Justifies why they need to cross reference national and international standards to product or processes data and information, in order to support technical outputs. (K4, S4) |
|
Mathematical techniques and engineering principles
K6 S5 |
Applies engineering mathematical techniques, using engineering principles or science to aid the solution or the development of the product or process. (K6, S5) |
None. |
|
Technical support
K12 S10 |
Produces documentation to show how they keep stakeholders informed of the progress status, and at handover, of the product or process. (K12, S10) |
None. |
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Planning and scheduling work
K10 S7 B4 |
Plans, organises, and prioritises their own work and adapts to changing work requests, time management techniques, including scheduling of work with stakeholders. (K10, S7, B4) |
None. |
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Resource management
K9 S8 |
Identifies, organises and use resources to complete tasks with consideration for equipment availability, cost, quality, safety, security and environmental impact. (K9, S8) |
Justifies the balance of cost, quality, safety, security and environmental factors. (K9, S8) |
|
Technical documentation and outputs
K11 S9 |
Produces job specific, technical support documentation with key outputs identified, which support organisational requirements. (K11, S9) |
None. |
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Recording information and written communications
K13 K19 S11 S17 |
Produces documentation suitable for the context, conveying information, adapting style, and use of engineering terminology, in line with colleagues and stakeholder's requirements. (K13, K19, S11, S17) |
None. |
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Theme
KSBs
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Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
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Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
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|---|---|---|
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The engineering and manufacturing industry, role and continual professional development
K1 K23 S20 B6 |
Explains the role of the support technician's function in their company and within the wider sector, identifying limits of autonomy and reporting channels, different teams and functions involved in operation and interdependencies. (K1) Describes how they have sought, carried out and recorded learning and development activities to show continual personal and professional development in their role. (K23, S20, B6) |
None. |
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Digitisation and emerging technologies within the engineering and manufacturing sector
K7 |
Describes how digitisation and emerging technologies are considered for the development of products and processes in line with organisational requirements. (K7) |
None. |
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Continuous improvement techniques and problem solving
K8 K17 S6 S15 |
Describes how they have applied problem solving techniques to provide solutions for identified technical problems. (K8, S6) Explains how they have applied a continuous improvement technique to achieve the task outcome. (K17, S15) |
Justifies the continuous improvement technique used to achieve the outcome. (K17, S15) |
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Environmental and sustainability
K3 S2 B2 |
Describes how they consider and apply the principles of environmental sustainability in their work in line with organisational procedures, regulations, standards and guidance. (K3, S2, B2) |
Explains how they support the development of environmental and sustainability practice in the workplace for example, through promoting good practice to others, identifying improvement to practice. (K3, S2) |
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Information technology and digital systems
K21 S19 |
Describes how they use information technology and digital systems and comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations and policies. (K21, S19) |
Outlines the benefits to the business of ensuring GDPR and cyber security regulations and policies are followed. (K21, S19) |
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Standard operating procedures and manufacturer's instructions and warranties
K14 K15 S12 S13 |
Describes how they use and follow standard operating procedures and manufacturer's instructions for processes and consider product warranties. (K14, K15, S12, S13)
|
Explains the importance of following standard operating procedures and working to manufacturer's instructions and the potential impact of breaches to warranties and possible consequences. (K14, K15, S12, S13) |
|
Quality assurance and processes
K16 S14 |
Describes how they apply quality control principles and practices to ensure products or processes meet specification and the importance of record keeping. (K16, S14)
|
None. |
|
Team working, equity, diversity and inclusion
K18 K22 S16 S21 B3 B5 |
Describes how they collaborate and apply team working principles within teams and stakeholders. (K18, S16, B5) Describes how they apply equity, diversity, and inclusion in their workplace in line with legislation, following company guidance. (K22, S21, B3) |
Explains how their team working supports wider team and business goals. (K18, S16)
|
|
Verbal communications
K20 S18 |
Describes how they use verbal communication techniques suitable for the context, adapting style to suit the audience. (K20, S18) |
None. |
Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the work-based report with presentation and questioning and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA distinction, apprentices must achieve a distinction in the work based report with presentation and questioning and a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence.
Grades from individual assessment methods must be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
| Work-based report with presentation and questioning | Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | Any grade | Fail |
| Any grade | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass |
| Distinction | Pass | Merit |
| Pass | Distinction | Merit |
| Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does. The apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and the EPAO should agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 6 months of the EPA outcome notification.
If the apprentice fails the work based report assessment method, they must amend the work based report in line with the independent assessor’s feedback. The apprentice will be given 4 weeks to rework and submit the amended report.
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 | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
|
|
Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
|
|
EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
|
|
Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
|
|
Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
|
Reasonable adjustments
The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Special considerations
The EPAO must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
The engineering or manufacturing function and role. Limits of autonomy and reporting channels. Different teams and functions involved within the operation and interdependencies. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K2
Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Awareness of working in confined spaces. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Display Screen Equipment (DSE). Electrical safety and compliance. Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Lone working. Manual handling. Noise regulation. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER). Reporting of Injuries, Disease, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Risk assessments. Slips, trips, and falls. Working at height. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K3
Environmental and sustainability regulations and guidance. Environmental hazards that can arise from engineering or manufacturing operations. Environmental Protection Act. Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Environmental permits. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Energy consumption. The Climate Change Agreements. Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K4
British standards for engineering representations, drawings, and graphical information. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K5
Engineering standards and regulations, relevant to the occupation and technician's responsibilities. British Standards (BS). International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN). Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K6
Engineering mathematical techniques and scientific principles: calculations, conversions, graphical representation, rate of change, calculus, trigonometry, areas and volumes, mechanical and electrical principles, properties of materials. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K7
Digitisation and emerging technologies within the engineering and manufacturing sector: connectivity, advanced analytics, automation, advanced manufacturing technology, additive manufacturing, improvements in robotics and human-machine interaction and Industry 4.0. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K8
Problem solving techniques: diagnostics, root cause analysis. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K9
Resource management requirements including equipment availability, costs, security and safety. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K10
Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. Work management systems. Work categorisation systems. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K11
Engineering and manufacturing technical outputs: methods of representing technical information supporting organisational requirements - electronic and paper. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K12
Requirements of supporting stakeholders for progress and handover of products or processes including status reports. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K13
Documentation and recording information requirements. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K14
Standard operating procedures (SOP). What they are and why they are important. What they need to cover and why. Visuals and symbols used in SOP. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K15
Manufacturers’ instructions: what they are, why use them and how to use them. Warranties: what they are and impact on engineering or manufacturing work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K16
Quality management standards. Quality assurance, quality control principles and practices. Record keeping. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K17
Continuous improvement techniques: lean, 6-sigma, KAIZEN, 5S plus safety (Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K18
Principles of team working. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K19
Written communication techniques. Engineering terminology. Report writing. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
K20
Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
Information technology and digital: digital interfaces, email, Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, virtual communication, learning platforms, work collaboration platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), cyber security. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K22
The Equality Act: requirements and impact on organisation. Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and their impact on organisations and customers. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
K23
Workplace training and development activities: continual professional development (CPD). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Follow health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S2
Follow procedures in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. For example, segregation of resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S3
Comply with engineering standards and regulations. For example, British Standards (BS), International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN). Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S4
Analyse engineering and manufacturing data and information to support technical outputs. For example, read and interpret text, data, engineering drawings, work instructions, method statements, operation manuals. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S5
Apply scientific, technical or engineering principles. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S6
Apply problem solving techniques to solutions for identified technical problems. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S7
Organise, plan and prioritise workflow and scheduling of work with stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S8
Identify, organise and use resources to complete tasks, considering cost, quality, safety, security and environmental impact. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S9
Produce job specific technical outputs. For example, engineering drawings, quality control management, computer control programming, business improvement, adverse incident reports, technical investigations, equipment appraisals and specifications. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S10
Provide support and guidance for handover of work to stakeholders. For example, checklists, product or process status, access to supporting documents. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S11
Record information - paper based or electronic. For example, energy usage, equipment service records, test results, handover documents, checklists. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S12
Follow standard operating procedures. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S13
Follow manufacturer's instructions. For example, safe instructions for use of products, processes and machinery. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S14
Apply quality assurance and control principles and practices. For example, conduct physical checks, take samples, inspections or tests. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S15
Apply continuous improvement techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S16
Apply team working principles. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S17
Communicate in writing with others for example, stakeholders, colleagues, and managers. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
S18
Communicate with others verbally for example, colleagues and stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S19
Use information and digital technology. Comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations and policies. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S20
Carry out and record learning and development activities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
S21
Apply equity, diversity and inclusion procedures. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
B1
Take personal responsibility for and promote health and safety. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
B2
Considers the environment and sustainability. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B3
Support diversity and social inclusion in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B4
Respond and adapt to work demands and situations. Back to Grading |
Work-based report with presentation and questioning |
|
B5
Collaborate within teams, across disciplines and stakeholders. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
|
B6
Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD). Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and safety
K2 S1 B1 |
Awareness of health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance and impact on role. Awareness of working in confined spaces. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Display Screen Equipment (DSE). Electrical safety and compliance. Fire safety. Health and Safety at Work Act. Lone working. Manual handling. Noise regulation. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER). Reporting of Injuries, Disease, and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Risk assessments. Slips, trips, and falls. Working at height. (K2) |
Follow health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance. (S1) |
Take personal responsibility for and promote health and safety. (B1) |
|
Engineering standards and regulations (BS, ISO, EN)
K5 S3 |
Engineering standards and regulations, relevant to the occupation and technician's responsibilities. British Standards (BS). International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN). (K5) |
Comply with engineering standards and regulations. For example, British Standards (BS), International Organisation for Standardisation standards (ISO). European Norm (EN). (S3) |
None |
|
British standards technical drawings and representations
K4 S4 |
British standards for engineering representations, drawings, and graphical information. (K4) |
Analyse engineering and manufacturing data and information to support technical outputs. For example, read and interpret text, data, engineering drawings, work instructions, method statements, operation manuals. (S4) |
None |
|
Mathematical techniques and engineering principles
K6 S5 |
Engineering mathematical techniques and scientific principles: calculations, conversions, graphical representation, rate of change, calculus, trigonometry, areas and volumes, mechanical and electrical principles, properties of materials. (K6) |
Apply scientific, technical or engineering principles. (S5) |
None |
|
Technical support
K12 S10 |
Requirements of supporting stakeholders for progress and handover of products or processes including status reports. (K12) |
Provide support and guidance for handover of work to stakeholders. For example, checklists, product or process status, access to supporting documents. (S10) |
None |
|
Planning and scheduling work
K10 S7 B4 |
Planning, prioritising, work scheduling, workflow and time management techniques. Work management systems. Work categorisation systems. (K10) |
Organise, plan and prioritise workflow and scheduling of work with stakeholders. (S7) |
Respond and adapt to work demands and situations. (B4) |
|
Resource management
K9 S8 |
Resource management requirements including equipment availability, costs, security and safety. (K9) |
Identify, organise and use resources to complete tasks, considering cost, quality, safety, security and environmental impact. (S8) |
None |
|
Technical documentation and outputs
K11 S9 |
Engineering and manufacturing technical outputs: methods of representing technical information supporting organisational requirements - electronic and paper. (K11) |
Produce job specific technical outputs. For example, engineering drawings, quality control management, computer control programming, business improvement, adverse incident reports, technical investigations, equipment appraisals and specifications. (S9) |
None |
|
Recording information and written communications
K13 K19 S11 S17 |
Documentation and recording information requirements. (K13) Written communication techniques. Engineering terminology. Report writing. (K19) |
Record information - paper based or electronic. For example, energy usage, equipment service records, test results, handover documents, checklists. (S11) Communicate in writing with others for example, stakeholders, colleagues, and managers. (S17) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
The engineering and manufacturing industry, role and continual professional development
K1 K23 S20 B6 |
The engineering or manufacturing function and role. Limits of autonomy and reporting channels. Different teams and functions involved within the operation and interdependencies. (K1) Workplace training and development activities: continual professional development (CPD). (K23) |
Carry out and record learning and development activities. (S20) |
Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD). (B6) |
|
Digitisation and emerging technologies within the engineering and manufacturing sector
K7 |
Digitisation and emerging technologies within the engineering and manufacturing sector: connectivity, advanced analytics, automation, advanced manufacturing technology, additive manufacturing, improvements in robotics and human-machine interaction and Industry 4.0. (K7) |
None |
None |
|
Continuous improvement techniques and problem solving
K8 K17 S6 S15 |
Problem solving techniques: diagnostics, root cause analysis. (K8) Continuous improvement techniques: lean, 6-sigma, KAIZEN, 5S plus safety (Sort, set, shine, standardise and sustain). (K17) |
Apply problem solving techniques to solutions for identified technical problems. (S6) Apply continuous improvement techniques. (S15) |
None |
|
Environmental and sustainability
K3 S2 B2 |
Environmental and sustainability regulations and guidance. Environmental hazards that can arise from engineering or manufacturing operations. Environmental Protection Act. Environmental signage and notices. Types of pollution and control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Environmental permits. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE). Energy consumption. The Climate Change Agreements. Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC). (K3) |
Follow procedures in line with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. For example, segregation of resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S2) |
Considers the environment and sustainability. (B2) |
|
Information technology and digital systems
K21 S19 |
Information technology and digital: digital interfaces, email, Management Information Systems (MIS), spreadsheets, presentation, word processing, virtual communication, learning platforms, work collaboration platforms. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), cyber security. (K21) |
Use information and digital technology. Comply with GDPR and cyber security regulations and policies. (S19) |
None |
|
Standard operating procedures and manufacturer's instructions and warranties
K14 K15 S12 S13 |
Standard operating procedures (SOP). What they are and why they are important. What they need to cover and why. Visuals and symbols used in SOP. (K14) Manufacturers’ instructions: what they are, why use them and how to use them. Warranties: what they are and impact on engineering or manufacturing work. (K15) |
Follow standard operating procedures. (S12) Follow manufacturer's instructions. For example, safe instructions for use of products, processes and machinery. (S13) |
None |
|
Quality assurance and processes
K16 S14 |
Quality management standards. Quality assurance, quality control principles and practices. Record keeping. (K16) |
Apply quality assurance and control principles and practices. For example, conduct physical checks, take samples, inspections or tests. (S14) |
None |
|
Team working, equity, diversity and inclusion
K18 K22 S16 S21 B3 B5 |
Principles of team working. (K18) The Equality Act: requirements and impact on organisation. Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and their impact on organisations and customers. (K22) |
Apply team working principles. (S16) Apply equity, diversity and inclusion procedures. (S21) |
Support diversity and social inclusion in the workplace. (B3) Collaborate within teams, across disciplines and stakeholders. (B5) |
|
Verbal communications
K20 S18 |
Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. (K20) |
Communicate with others verbally for example, colleagues and stakeholders. (S18) |
None |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Not set | Not set | Not set |
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