Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST0290
  3. Version: 1.1
  4. Level: 2
  5. Typical duration to gateway: 24 months
  6. Typical EPA period: 3 months
  7. Maximum funding: £13000
  8. Route: Engineering and manufacturing
  9. Date updated: 26/06/2024
  10. Approved for delivery: 3 September 2015
  11. Lars code: 46
  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

Providing radiological monitoring services in the nuclear industry to protect people, plant and the environment from radioactive contamination.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the nuclear sector on a range of sites including waste management, decommissioning, and operational nuclear facilities. Their working conditions are varied and may involve wearing specialist safety equipment, shift working and working on sites and facilities running 365-day operations. They are expected to work independently and as part of a team. They need to be able to work with minimum supervision, in a professional manner, taking responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake. People working on nuclear sites are required to undergo security clearance vetting.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide radiological monitoring services within the nuclear industry to protect people, plant, and the environment. It is to provide protection from the adverse effects of ionising radiation and contamination. They may work indoors or outdoors, work at height or in confined spaces. They may be required to work shifts and in hazardous areas.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other engineers, technicians and visiting staff present on a nuclear site. They work independently or as part of the larger team. They typically work under both supervised and unsupervised direction of an engineer, technician or health physics supervisor.

An employee in this occupation will comply with regulatory and organisational requirements. They must work within the specified health, safety, and environmental regulations. They must use the appropriate protective clothing, equipment and resources. They are responsible for the correct use and control of equipment. They must follow organisationally defined and approved procedures when carrying out monitoring of nuclear related systems and people. All work must be completed safely and efficiently as directed by supervisory staff.

Typical job titles include:

Health physics monitor Green leaf Health physics surveyor Green leaf

Duties

  • Duty 1 Apply radiological and contamination control measures prior to, during and after commencing work.
  • Duty 2 Monitor surface and airborne contamination and radiation dose rates using radiological instruments.
  • Duty 3 Complete ionising radiation and contamination surveys in compliance with organisational requirements.
  • Duty 4 Undertake monitoring of personnel activities during radiologically implicated tasks and at barriers, entry and exit areas.
  • Duty 5 Carry out radiological barrier integrity checks.
  • Duty 6 Perform checks and testing of monitors and detectors against radioactive sealed sources.
  • Duty 7 Monitor waste, used personal protective equipment (PPE) and equipment leaving the site. Ensure compliance to conditions for acceptance at receiving sites.
  • Duty 8 Document radiation and contamination monitoring survey results. Use written reports and digital systems as required.
  • Duty 9 Support decontamination of personnel in the event of becoming contaminated. For example, emergency showers.
  • Duty 10 Ensure radioactive sources and materials are accounted for in line with local arrangements and location.
  • Duty 11 Monitor radiation and contamination levels during radiation incidents and events.
  • Duty 12 Support facility and site contingency plans including emergency arrangements for protection of personnel, plant and the environment.
  • Duty 13 Produce radiological protection monitoring information.
  • Duty 14 Provide information of radiological hazards and risks in routine and incident situations. For example, appropriate guidance to personnel involved in incidents or events.
  • Duty 15 Direct colleagues on appropriate actions relating to radiation protection.

Apprenticeship summary

ST0290, nuclear health physics monitor level 2

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 24 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.

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

  • passed any other qualifications listed in the occupational standard

For the nuclear health physics monitor, the qualification required is:

IOSH Working Safely

GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)

Assessment methods


Practical assessment with questions

You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 60 hours. They will ask you at least 3 questions.


Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

You will have an interview with an independent assessor. It will last at least 60 minutes. They will ask you at least 6 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.



Knowledge test - integrated

You will complete a test requiring short written answers and multi choice answers. The delivery of the knowledge test - integrated must align with the conditions set out by the awarding body for the integrated qualification.


The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.

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.


Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with Society for Radiological Protection for Associate

Please contact the professional body for more details.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in the nuclear sector on a range of sites including waste management, decommissioning, and operational nuclear facilities. Their working conditions are varied and may involve wearing specialist safety equipment, shift working and working on sites and facilities running 365-day operations. They are expected to work independently and as part of a team. They need to be able to work with minimum supervision, in a professional manner, taking responsibility for the quality and accuracy of the work they undertake. People working on nuclear sites are required to undergo security clearance vetting.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide radiological monitoring services within the nuclear industry to protect people, plant, and the environment. It is to provide protection from the adverse effects of ionising radiation and contamination. They may work indoors or outdoors, work at height or in confined spaces. They may be required to work shifts and in hazardous areas.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with other engineers, technicians and visiting staff present on a nuclear site. They work independently or as part of the larger team. They typically work under both supervised and unsupervised direction of an engineer, technician or health physics supervisor.

An employee in this occupation will comply with regulatory and organisational requirements. They must work within the specified health, safety, and environmental regulations. They must use the appropriate protective clothing, equipment and resources. They are responsible for the correct use and control of equipment. They must follow organisationally defined and approved procedures when carrying out monitoring of nuclear related systems and people. All work must be completed safely and efficiently as directed by supervisory staff.

Typical job titles include:

Health physics monitor Green leaf Health physics surveyor Green leaf

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Apply radiological and contamination control measures prior to, during and after commencing work.

K3 K5 K6 K9 K10 K11 K22

S3 S8 S9 S19 S20

B1 B2 B3

Duty 2 Monitor surface and airborne contamination and radiation dose rates using radiological instruments.

K6 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14

S3 S7 S8 S10 S11

B1 B2 B3

Duty 3 Complete ionising radiation and contamination surveys in compliance with organisational requirements.

K6 K9 K14 K16

S1 S2 S3 S7 S8 S13

B1 B2 B3 B7

Duty 4 Undertake monitoring of personnel activities during radiologically implicated tasks and at barriers, entry and exit areas.

K2 K4 K6 K10 K11 K15 K21

S3 S4 S10

B1 B2 B3 B6 B8

Duty 5 Carry out radiological barrier integrity checks.

K6 K10 K11 K22

S3 S4 S9 S16 S17 S20

B1 B2 B3

Duty 6 Perform checks and testing of monitors and detectors against radioactive sealed sources.

K6 K9 K13 K14

S3 S7 S8 S10 S19

B1 B2 B3

Duty 7 Monitor waste, used personal protective equipment (PPE) and equipment leaving the site. Ensure compliance to conditions for acceptance at receiving sites.

K6

S2 S3 S5 S19

B1 B2 B3

Duty 8 Document radiation and contamination monitoring survey results. Use written reports and digital systems as required.

K6 K14 K18 K20 K21

S3 S7 S8 S17 S18 S19

B2 B7

Duty 9 Support decontamination of personnel in the event of becoming contaminated. For example, emergency showers.

K6 K10 K11 K15 K19 K22

S3 S4 S16 S17 S19 S20

B1 B2 B3 B8

Duty 10 Ensure radioactive sources and materials are accounted for in line with local arrangements and location.

K10 K11 K13 K18

S2 S7 S8 S13 S16 S17

B1 B2 B3

Duty 11 Monitor radiation and contamination levels during radiation incidents and events.

K3 K6 K14 K15 K21

S3 S8 S9 S12 S16 S17 S19

B1 B2 B3

Duty 12 Support facility and site contingency plans including emergency arrangements for protection of personnel, plant and the environment.

K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K15 K17 K22

S3 S9 S12 S15 S16 S17 S20

B1 B2 B3 B5 B6 B8

Duty 13 Produce radiological protection monitoring information.

K6 K13 K16 K19 K20 K21 K22

S3 S7 S8 S14 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20

B2 B3 B4

Duty 14 Provide information of radiological hazards and risks in routine and incident situations. For example, appropriate guidance to personnel involved in incidents or events.

K1 K3 K5 K6 K8 K19 K20 K22

S3 S6 S16 S17 S20

B1 B2 B6

Duty 15 Direct colleagues on appropriate actions relating to radiation protection.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K8 K15 K19 K20 K22

S3 S6 S15 S16 S17 S19 S20

B1 B2 B5 B6 B8

KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Awareness of nuclear safety: prevention of accidents, protection of people and the environment from radiation exposure and hazards. Back to Duty

K2: Awareness of radiological safety: protection of people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation and contamination. Back to Duty

K3: Safety expectations of those working on nuclear licensed sites: Confined spaces, Health and safety at work act. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE). Situational awareness. Slips, trips and falls. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safe systems of working. Working at height. Back to Duty

K4: Security clearances and levels of personnel on nuclear licensed sites: basic clearance (BC), security clearance (SC) and developed vetting (DV) enhanced clearance. Back to Duty

K5: Awareness of safety management systems: risk assessments. Principles of As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Best Available Technique (BAT). Back to Duty

K6: Standard operating procedures (SOPs): what they are and why they are important. Back to Duty

K7: Environment and sustainability regulations and guidance. Types of pollution and control measures in the nuclear sector, including spills and waste. Waste reduction and waste streams. Recycling and reuse. Sustainable use of equipment and materials. Back to Duty

K8: Awareness of how human performance and human factors affect nuclear safety culture. Back to Duty

K9: Awareness of radiation types: non-ionising and ionising radiation, alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray and neutron. Atomic structure, criticality, fusion and fission. Back to Duty

K10: Types of radiation sources and materials. Back to Duty

K11: Control measures for radiation sources, materials and hazards. Back to Duty

K12: Identification and purpose of radiological monitoring instruments including personal monitoring equipment (electronic and non-electronic): measurement and referencing levels of ionising radiation detection and exposure. Back to Duty

K13: Testing of radiological monitoring instruments using calibrated and sealed radiation sources. Back to Duty

K14: Numerical calculation techniques for radiological data and SI units. Back to Duty

K15: Emergency response radiological incident contingency plans: emergency environmental radiological releases, critical incident monitoring, forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP), supervised and designated areas. Back to Duty

K16: Regulatory and legislative guidance: Nuclear Installations Act (NIA), Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR), International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP), Approved Code of Practice (ACOP). Back to Duty

K17: Principles of team working. Back to Duty

K18: Documentation and reporting requirements. Back to Duty

K19: Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Nuclear industry terminology. Back to Duty

K20: Written communication techniques. Back to Duty

K21: Information technology and digital systems: email, management information systems, word processing, work sharing platforms. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. Back to Duty

K22: Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work. Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Challenge unsafe practices. Back to Duty

S2: Follow work instructions. For example, risk assessments. Back to Duty

S3: Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs). Back to Duty

S4: Respond to changes in radiological conditions using safety management systems. For example, As Low As Reasonably Practicable principles (ALARP). Back to Duty

S5: Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. For example, identify and segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Duty

S6: Apply human performance and human factors nuclear culture. Back to Duty

S7: Identification of radiation sources and materials. Back to Duty

S8: Apply control measures taken with radiation sources and materials. Back to Duty

S9: Select and use radiological protection monitoring instruments: for example, smear paper, hand-held radiation and contamination rate meters, installed and portable air samplers. Back to Duty

S10: Carry out functional tests of radiation protection monitoring instrumentation using calibrated radioactive sealed sources. Back to Duty

S11: Perform numerical calculations for radiological measurements with SI units. Back to Duty

S12: Comply with emergency response plans: carry out critical incident monitoring, use forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP) to respond and recover from nuclear incidents. Back to Duty

S13: Comply with legislative regulations and guidance: Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR). Back to Duty

S14: Record radiation protection monitoring and survey results using required documentation. Back to Duty

S15: Apply team working principles. Back to Duty

S16: Communicate verbally with colleagues and managers using industry terminology. Back to Duty

S17: Communicate in writing with colleagues and managers. Back to Duty

S18: Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security. Back to Duty

S19: Carry out and record learning and development activities. Back to Duty

S20: Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules. Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Put health and safety first. Back to Duty

B2: Take ownership of own work and responsibilities. Back to Duty

B3: Take responsibility for the quality of work. Back to Duty

B4: Respond and adapt to changing work requests. Back to Duty

B5: Demonstrate team focus to meet work goals. Back to Duty

B6: Consider human performance and human factors principles in the workplace. Back to Duty

B7: Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD). Back to Duty

B8: Support an inclusive workplace, being respectful of different views. Back to Duty

Qualifications

English and Maths

English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway. The requirements are detailed in the current version of the apprenticeship funding rules.

Other mandatory qualifications

IOSH Working Safely

Level: 2

The IOSH Working Safely qualification will be undertaken early in the apprenticeship to give a standard introduction to underpinning knowledge of health and safety throughout the apprenticeship and beyond. It is a 5 guided learning hours (GLH) qualification.

GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)

Level: 2

Professional recognition

This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:

  • Society for Radiological Protection for Associate
Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

1.1

Introduction and overview



This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the nuclear health physics monitor apprenticeship. This apprenticeship has an integrated qualification which means both the qualification and apprenticeship need to be completed, passed and awarded during the same period.

The awarding body (AB) is accountable for the integrated assessment method. The end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) must take responsibility for all other assessment methods in the EPA. EPAOs and ABs must work collaboratively to manage the delivery of the EPA.

Nuclear health physics monitor apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

A full-time nuclear health physics monitor apprentice typically spends 24 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 3 months.

The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.

An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR). The integrated assessment method must be delivered by the qualification's awarding body.

Occupational competence is outlined by the EPA grade descriptors. The integrated assessment method must be marked by the awarding body, The EPA outcome is determined by the EPAO. The EPAO must combine the outcomes of integrated and non-integrated assessment methods to determine the apprentice’s overall grade.

This EPA has 3 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are below.

Assessment method 1 - practical assessment with questions:

  • fail
  • pass

Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 3 - knowledge test - integrated:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • 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 24 months

The apprentice must:

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

  • compile a portfolio of evidence

  • complete training towards the qualifications listed in the nuclear health physics monitor apprenticeship standard

The qualifications required are:

IOSH Working Safely

GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)

End-point assessment gateway

The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent.

The apprentice must:

  • confirm they are ready to take the EPA
  • have achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • have passed IOSH Working Safely
  • have completed the training, but not the assessment, for the GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)

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 3 months

The grades available for each assessment method are below

Practical assessment with questions:

  • fail

  • pass

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:

  • fail

  • pass

  • distinction

Knowledge test - integrated:

  • fail

  • pass

  • merit

  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with:

  • Society for Radiological Protection for Associate

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 start the EPA as quickly as possible.

EPA gateway

The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.

The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.

They must:

  • confirm they are ready to take the EPA
  • have achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • have passed IOSH Working Safely
  • have completed the training, but not the assessment, for the GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)

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

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 at least 8 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.

Evidence sources may include:

  • workplace documentation and records
  • workplace policies and procedures
  • witness statements
  • annotated photographs
  • video clips (maximum total duration of 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.

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

Order of assessment methods

The assessment methods must be delivered in the following order:

The integrated assessment method must be delivered after non-integrated assessment methods have been attempted.

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 assessment method is being used because:

  • this is a practical role, which can be demonstrated through completing tasks
  • it allows for consistency of opportunity for apprentices to demonstrate their competence against the mapped KSBs
  • it assesses KSBs holistically and objectively
  • it is a valid assessment because it involves direct testing under controlled conditions.

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 one apprentice at a time to ensure quality and rigour. They must be as unobtrusive as possible.

The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the . practical assessment with questions

The practical assessment with questions must take 60 minutes.

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 cannot be split, other than for comfort breaks or to allow apprentices to move from one location to another. Where breaks occur, they will not count towards the total EPA time.

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:

  • apply radiological and contamination control measures prior to, during and after commencing work
  • perform functional checks of radiological instruments, monitors and detectors against known sealed sources
  • ensure radioactive sources and materials are accounted for in line with local arrangements
  • monitor surface and airborne contamination and dose rates
  • monitor plant personnel during radiological tasks
  • complete radiological surveys
  • record and document radiation and contamination monitoring survey results
  • provide information of radiological hazards and risks in routine and incident situations
  • produce radiological protection information and direct plant personnel on appropriate actions relating to radiation protection

The additional person will be a role player. They will play the role of plant personnel and are to follow the instructions given by the independent end-point assessor. They will be required to act as plant personnel, required to undergo radiological monitoring. This monitoring will be carried out by the apprentice as part of the practical task. They will also be required to act as plant personnel to receive information and direction on matters relating to radiological hazards and risks. They will follow instructions from the apprentice relating to radiation protection.

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

The independent assessor must ask questions. The purpose of the questioning is to explore aspects of the identified KSBs not demonstrated in the practical assessment.

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 3 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:

  • allows for assessment of KSBs that do not occur on a predictable or regular basis
  • allows for testing of responses where there are a range of potential answers that cannot be tested through the knowledge test
  • can be conducted remotely, potentially reducing cost

Delivery

The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.

The purpose is to assess the apprentice’s competence against the following themes:

  • health and safety
  • site security
  • environmental and sustainability
  • emergency response planning and legislation
  • documentation and use of digital and information technology
  • standard operating procedures
  • equity, diversity and inclusion
  • continual professional development

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 60 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the interview by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to respond to a question if necessary.

The independent assessor must ask at least 6 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank.

The independent assessor must make the grading decision.

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

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

Assessment location

The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.

The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.

The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview 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.

Knowledge test - integrated

Overview

This is an integrated assessment method. The integrated assessment method forms part of the apprenticeship's EPA as well as the awarding of the qualification. The integrated qualification is the Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory).

The KSBs aligned to the integrated assessment method will be assessed and graded by the awarding body and contribute to the overall outcome of the apprenticeship and the qualification.

In the knowledge test - integrated, the apprentice answers questions in a controlled and invigilated environment. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skill mapped to this assessment method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because it:

  • allows for the efficient testing of knowledge and S11
  • allows for flexibility in terms of when, where and how it is taken
  • allows larger volumes of apprentices to be assessed at one time
  • reduces the assessment burden on the apprentice

Delivery

The delivery of the knowledge test - integrated must align with the conditions set out by the awarding body for the integrated qualification.

The test can be computer or paper based.

The apprentice must be given at least 2 weeks’ notice of the date and time of the test.

Test administration

The test must be taken in the presence of an invigilator who is the responsibility of the AB. The AB 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 AB is responsible for the security of the test including the arrangements for on-line testing. The AB must ensure their security arrangements maintain the validity and reliability of the test.

The AB must verify the apprentice’s identity and ensure invigilation of the apprentice for example, with 360-degree cameras and screen sharing facilities if the test is taken remotely.

Marking

The responsibility for the marking of the test is with the AB. They must produce a marking scheme to be followed. Marking by computer is allowed where question types support this.

The AB is responsible for overseeing the marking, standardisation and moderation 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 AB 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 AB must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers or subject matter experts for this occupation. The AB must maintain the security and confidentiality of test materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The AB 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 AB must ensure that apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

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

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

The AB must ensure that the 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
Health and safety
K5 S1 S4 B1 B2 B4

Demonstrates compliance and a commitment to health and safety for themselves and others. Challenges unsafe practices. (S1, B1)

Demonstrates use of safety management systems and taking responsibility, in response to changes in radiological conditions in line with organisational procedures. (K5, S4, B2, B4)

Follow work instructions
S2

Follows work instructions in line with task requirements, organisational guidance and legal and regulatory requirements. (S2)

Verbal communications
K19 S16

Uses verbal communication techniques suitable for the context, adapting style and use of terminology to suit the audience. (K19, S16)

Radiological testing and monitoring instruments
K11 K13 S7 S8 S9 S10 B3

Selects radiation monitoring instruments in line with the task requirements. Undertakes the measurement, referencing safe levels of radiation. (S9, B3)

Identifies types of radiation sources and materials prior to associated functional testing. (S7)

Applies control measures whilst performing functional tests and calibration checks of radiation monitoring instruments against known radioactive sealed sources in line with quality processes, and manufacturer's instructions. (K11, K13, S8, S10, B3)

Written documentation
K18 S14

Completes documentation to record monitoring and survey results, in line with the task requirements, organisational procedures, and legal and regulatory requirements. (K18, S14)

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
Health and safety
K8 S6 B6

Describes how they apply human factors and human performance principles in line with nuclear safety culture within their role. (K8, S6, B6)

 

 

Explains how compliance with human factors and human performance principles preserves nuclear safety culture for themselves and others. (K8, S6, B6)

 

Site security
K4

Explains the different levels of security clearances required, to access the nuclear facility for personnel when undertaking work in different areas of the nuclear facility. (K4)

None.

Environmental and sustainability
K7 S5

Describes how they comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. Describes how they consider the environment, pollution, waste, and recycling, and the application of control measures when carrying out tasks in line with their job role and organisational guidance. (K7, S5)

Explains how their environmental and sustainability considerations, reduces the impact on the local environment. (K7, S5)

Emergency response planning and legislation
S12 S13

Describes the actions taken to ensure compliance with emergency response plans, in the event of nuclear incidents adapting to changing work requests. (S12)

Describes how they comply with legislative regulations and procedures to plan for nuclear emergency incidents. (S13)

Explains the importance of having emergency response contingency plans to support the actions required to respond and recover from nuclear incidents. (S12, S13)

Documentation and use of digital and information technology
K20 K21 S17 S18

Describes how they communicate with colleagues and managers using written techniques. (K20, S17)

Describes how they use information technology and digital systems to comply with GDPR and cyber security when carrying out work tasks. (K21, S18)

None

Standard operating procedures
K6 S3

Explains how they use and follow standard operating procedures. (K6, S3)

Describes the benefit of following standard operating procedures for themselves and the organisation whilst carrying out nuclear health physics monitoring activities. (K6, S3)

Team working
K17 S15 B5

Describes how they apply team working principles to meet their team's work goals. (K17, S15, B5)

Explains how their team focus supports teams to meet their goals. (K17, S15, B5)

Equity, diversity and inclusion
K22 S20 B8

Describes how they follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules, contributing to an inclusive workplace, including being respectful of others and the impact this has on their work. (K22, S20, B8)

Explains the benefits to themselves and the organisation of supporting a diverse and inclusive culture. (K22, S20, B8)

Continual professional development
S19 B7

Describes how they have sought, carried out and recorded learning and development activities to show continual personal and professional development in their role. (S19, B7)

None

Knowledge test - integrated

Theme
KSBs
Pass
A pass for this assessment method will be achieved as detailed below.
Merit
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass and merit boundaries.
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass, merit and all of the distinction boundaries.
GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)
K1 K2 K3 K9 K10 K12 K14 K15 K16 S11

In order to pass, the apprentice must achieve the requirements of the pass criteria of the mandated qualification.

The apprentice will be assessed in line with the marking scheme produced by the AB. 

 

In order to gain a merit, the apprentice must achieve the requirements of the merit criteria of the mandated qualification.

The apprentice will be assessed in line with the marking scheme produced by the AB. 

In order to gain a distinction, the apprentice must achieve the requirements of the distinction criteria of the mandated qualification.

The apprentice will be assessed in line with the marking scheme produced by the AB. 

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 the 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.

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

To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve a merit the apprentice must gain a pass in both the practical assessment with questions and interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and a merit or distinction in the knowledge test. The apprentice can also achieve an overall merit by gaining a pass in the practical assessment with questions, a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence and at least a pass in the knowledge test. To achieve an overall EPA distinction the apprentice must achieve a distinction or merit in the knowledge test, pass the practical assessment with questions and a distinction in the interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence. Any component failed will result in an overall fail.

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

Practical assessment with questions Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence Knowledge test - integrated Overall Grading
Fail Any grade Any grade Fail
Any grade Fail Any grade Fail
Any grade Any grade Fail Fail
Pass Pass Pass Pass
Pass Pass Merit Merit
Pass Distinction Pass Merit
Pass Pass Distinction Merit
Pass Distinction Merit Distinction
Pass 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.

Non-integrated assessment methods must be attempted before the integrated assessment method is attempted. The re-sit or re-take opportunities for the integrated assessment method must fall within the typical EPA period timeframes. This is to ensure that apprentices are not disadvantaged by the assessment of qualifications being available within an assessment window occurring once a year.

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 occupational 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
  • apply for any reasonable adjustments and special considerations
  • prepare for and undertake the EPA including meeting all gateway requirements
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the EPAO and training provider
  • ensure that the apprentice is enrolled on mandated qualifications in line with the occupational standard
  • 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 occupational 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 (who, when, where) in a timely manner
  • ensure that the EPA is scheduled with the EPAO for a date and time in line with EPA requirements
  • ensure that the integrated assessment method is scheduled with the AB for a date and time in line with EPA requirements
  • provide access to any employer-specific documentation as required for example, company policies
  • 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 from the EPAO

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 APAR
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP)
  • understand the apprenticeship including the occupational standard, EPA plan and funding
  • make all necessary contractual arrangements including agreeing the price of the EPA
  • have third party arrangements in place with the AB to:
    • work collaboratively to manage the delivery of the EPA
    • ensure the EPA is arranged to meet the scheduling requirements set out in this EPA plan
    • to share the outcomes of the assessment methods in a timely manner
  • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials (for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material) for the non-integrated assessment methods
  • 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 non-integrated assessment methods 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
  • 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
  • maintain and apply a policy for reasonable adjustment and special considerations for apprentices
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the apprenticeship
  • 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
  • host and facilitate the EPA or make suitable alternative arrangements
  • maintain the security of the EPA including, but not limited to, verifying the identity of the apprentice, invigilation and security of materials
  • arrange for the non-integrated assessment methods of the EPA to take place in a timely manner, in consultation with the employer
  • deliver the non-integrated assessment methods in line with this EPA plan
  • 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 the overall grade awarded including the outcomes of the integrated and non-integrated assessment methods in line with this EPA plan
  • conduct moderation of all their independent assessors’ decisions once EPAs have started
  • monitor the performance of all their independent assessors and provide re-training where necessary
  • maintain and apply a policy for conducting appeals
  • arrange the certification of the apprenticeship

Awarding body

As a minimum, the awarding body must:

  • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner
  • conform to the requirements of any regulators for the mandated qualification
  • understand the apprenticeship including the occupational standard, EPA plan and funding
  • confirm that they agree to the conditions of integration for the integrated assessment method, as outlined in the EPA plan
  • make all necessary contractual arrangements
  • have third party arrangements in place with the EPAO to:
    • work collaboratively to manage the delivery of the EPA
    • ensure the EPA is arranged to meet the scheduling requirements set out in this EPA plan
    • to share the outcomes of the integrated assessment method in a timely manner
  • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials (for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material) for the integrated assessment method
  • maintain and apply a policy for the declaration and management of conflict of interests and independence relating to the EPA of an apprentice (including by way of moderation).
  • have quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent assessment and maintain records of internal quality assurance (IQA) activity
  • source a suitably qualified and independent person who must administer all aspects of the integrated assessment method. This means that they must not:
    • be connected to the apprentice
    • have been involved in the management or training of the apprentice
    • have a vested interest in the outcome

Where this is not possible, by exception, a person who has delivered the assessed content may administer the assessment. This is providing they are not the sole administrator.

  • source a suitably qualified and independent person who must grade all aspects of the integrated assessment method. The person making the grading judgement must not be employed by:
    • the same organisation as the apprentice
    • the apprentice's training provider
  • This means that the integrated assessment method must be marked by either:
    • the awarding body
    • an independent person appointed by the awarding body, or an independent assessor sourced by, or from, the EPAO,
    • or a combination of the above.

In rare circumstances, training provider staff may mark the integrated assessment method. This will only be to mark tests where there is a right or wrong answer, for example, multiple-choice tests. Strict arrangements must be in place for monitoring, moderation and quality assurance.

  • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials (for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material) for the integrated assessment methods
  • deliver induction, initial and on-going training for all their independent assessors and any other roles involved in the administration or grading of the integrated assessment method of the EPA as specified within this EPA plan. This should include how to record the rationale and evidence for grading decisions where required
  • provide information, advice, and guidance documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the integrated assessment method
  • arrange for the integrated assessment methods of the EPA to take place in a timely manner, in consultation with the employer
  • maintain the security of the integrated assessment method including, but not limited to, verifying the identity of the apprentice, invigilation and security of materials
  • must externally set and externally mark the integrated assessment method
  • maintain and apply a policy for reasonable adjustment and special considerations for apprentices
  • deliver the integrated assessment method in line with this EPA plan
  • conduct moderation of all their independent assessors’ decisions for integrated assessment methods
  • monitor the performance of all their independent assessors and provide re-training where necessary
  • an auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to all relevant stakeholders
  • maintain and apply a policy for conducting appeals
  • continue to follow the rules and regulations applicable to the qualification, for example, those of Ofqual and industry regulators.
  • must give IfATE at least 6 months’ notice of any changes to mandated qualifications

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, including additional assessors 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 apprenticeship provider and assessment register (APAR)
  • 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
  • not make any adaptations to aspects of the integrated assessment method
  • remain independent from the delivery of the non-integrated assessment methods in EPA
  • remain independent from the integrated assessment method, except with the marking of tests where there is a right or wrong answer for example multiple-choice tests
  • remain independent from the administration of the integrated assessment method. This person must also be independent of the apprentice. Where this is not possible, by exception and agreed by the awarding body, a person who has delivered the assessed content may administer the assessment. This is providing they are not the sole administrator.

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, except for integrated assessment methods as outlined in the training provider roles
  • 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

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

Reasonable adjustments

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO and AB must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

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

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

Special considerations

The EPAO and AB must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

  • how an apprentice qualifies for a special consideration
  • what special considerations will be given

Special considerations 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 and AB must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.

EPAOs and ABs 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 assessment method permits this
  • using the employer’s premises
  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with:

  • Society for Radiological Protection for Associate

KSB mapping table

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

Awareness of nuclear safety: prevention of accidents, protection of people and the environment from radiation exposure and hazards.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K2

Awareness of radiological safety: protection of people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation and contamination.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K3

Safety expectations of those working on nuclear licensed sites: Confined spaces, Health and safety at work act. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE). Situational awareness. Slips, trips and falls. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safe systems of working. Working at height.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K4

Security clearances and levels of personnel on nuclear licensed sites: basic clearance (BC), security clearance (SC) and developed vetting (DV) enhanced clearance.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K5

Awareness of safety management systems: risk assessments. Principles of As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Best Available Technique (BAT).

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K6

Standard operating procedures (SOPs): what they are and why they are important.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K7

Environment and sustainability regulations and guidance. Types of pollution and control measures in the nuclear sector, including spills and waste. Waste reduction and waste streams. Recycling and reuse. Sustainable use of equipment and materials.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K8

Awareness of how human performance and human factors affect nuclear safety culture.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K9

Awareness of radiation types: non-ionising and ionising radiation, alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray and neutron. Atomic structure, criticality, fusion and fission.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K10

Types of radiation sources and materials.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K11

Control measures for radiation sources, materials and hazards.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K12

Identification and purpose of radiological monitoring instruments including personal monitoring equipment (electronic and non-electronic): measurement and referencing levels of ionising radiation detection and exposure.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K13

Testing of radiological monitoring instruments using calibrated and sealed radiation sources.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K14

Numerical calculation techniques for radiological data and SI units.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K15

Emergency response radiological incident contingency plans: emergency environmental radiological releases, critical incident monitoring, forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP), supervised and designated areas.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K16

Regulatory and legislative guidance: Nuclear Installations Act (NIA), Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR), International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP), Approved Code of Practice (ACOP).

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
K17

Principles of team working.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K18

Documentation and reporting requirements.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K19

Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Nuclear industry terminology.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
K20

Written communication techniques.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K21

Information technology and digital systems: email, management information systems, word processing, work sharing platforms. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
K22

Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work.

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

Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Challenge unsafe practices.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S2

Follow work instructions. For example, risk assessments.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S3

Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S4

Respond to changes in radiological conditions using safety management systems. For example, As Low As Reasonably Practicable principles (ALARP).

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S5

Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. For example, identify and segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S6

Apply human performance and human factors nuclear culture.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S7

Identification of radiation sources and materials.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S8

Apply control measures taken with radiation sources and materials.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S9

Select and use radiological protection monitoring instruments: for example, smear paper, hand-held radiation and contamination rate meters, installed and portable air samplers.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S10

Carry out functional tests of radiation protection monitoring instrumentation using calibrated radioactive sealed sources.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S11

Perform numerical calculations for radiological measurements with SI units.

Back to Grading
Knowledge test - integrated
S12

Comply with emergency response plans: carry out critical incident monitoring, use forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP) to respond and recover from nuclear incidents.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S13

Comply with legislative regulations and guidance: Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR).

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S14

Record radiation protection monitoring and survey results using required documentation.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S15

Apply team working principles.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S16

Communicate verbally with colleagues and managers using industry terminology.

Back to Grading
Practical assessment with questions
S17

Communicate in writing with colleagues and managers.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S18

Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S19

Carry out and record learning and development activities.

Back to Grading
Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
S20

Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules.

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

Put health and safety first.

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Practical assessment with questions
B2

Take ownership of own work and responsibilities.

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Practical assessment with questions
B3

Take responsibility for the quality of work.

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Practical assessment with questions
B4

Respond and adapt to changing work requests.

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Practical assessment with questions
B5

Demonstrate team focus to meet work goals.

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Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B6

Consider human performance and human factors principles in the workplace.

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Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B7

Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD).

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Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
B8

Support an inclusive workplace, being respectful of different views.

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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
K5
S1 S4
B1 B2 B4

Awareness of safety management systems: risk assessments. Principles of As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP). Best Available Technique (BAT). (K5)

Comply with health and safety regulations and procedures. Challenge unsafe practices. (S1)

Respond to changes in radiological conditions using safety management systems. For example, As Low As Reasonably Practicable principles (ALARP). (S4)

Put health and safety first. (B1)

Take ownership of own work and responsibilities. (B2)

Respond and adapt to changing work requests. (B4)

Follow work instructions

S2

None

Follow work instructions. For example, risk assessments. (S2)

None

Verbal communications
K19
S16

Verbal communication techniques. Giving and receiving information. Matching style to audience. Nuclear industry terminology. (K19)

Communicate verbally with colleagues and managers using industry terminology. (S16)

None

Radiological testing and monitoring instruments
K11 K13
S7 S8 S9 S10
B3

Control measures for radiation sources, materials and hazards. (K11)

Testing of radiological monitoring instruments using calibrated and sealed radiation sources. (K13)

Identification of radiation sources and materials. (S7)

Apply control measures taken with radiation sources and materials. (S8)

Select and use radiological protection monitoring instruments: for example, smear paper, hand-held radiation and contamination rate meters, installed and portable air samplers. (S9)

Carry out functional tests of radiation protection monitoring instrumentation using calibrated radioactive sealed sources. (S10)

Take responsibility for the quality of work. (B3)

Written documentation
K18
S14

Documentation and reporting requirements. (K18)

Record radiation protection monitoring and survey results using required documentation. (S14)

None

Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Health and safety
K8
S6
B6

Awareness of how human performance and human factors affect nuclear safety culture. (K8)

Apply human performance and human factors nuclear culture. (S6)

Consider human performance and human factors principles in the workplace. (B6)

Site security
K4

Security clearances and levels of personnel on nuclear licensed sites: basic clearance (BC), security clearance (SC) and developed vetting (DV) enhanced clearance. (K4)

None

None

Environmental and sustainability
K7
S5

Environment and sustainability regulations and guidance. Types of pollution and control measures in the nuclear sector, including spills and waste. Waste reduction and waste streams. Recycling and reuse. Sustainable use of equipment and materials. (K7)

Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations and procedures. For example, identify and segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S5)

None

Emergency response planning and legislation

S12 S13

None

Comply with emergency response plans: carry out critical incident monitoring, use forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP) to respond and recover from nuclear incidents. (S12)

Comply with legislative regulations and guidance: Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR). (S13)

None

Documentation and use of digital and information technology
K20 K21
S17 S18

Written communication techniques. (K20)

Information technology and digital systems: email, management information systems, word processing, work sharing platforms. General data protection regulation (GDPR). Cyber security. (K21)

Communicate in writing with colleagues and managers. (S17)

Use information technology and digital systems. Comply with GDPR and cyber security. (S18)

None

Standard operating procedures
K6
S3

Standard operating procedures (SOPs): what they are and why they are important. (K6)

Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs). (S3)

None

Team working
K17
S15
B5

Principles of team working. (K17)

Apply team working principles. (S15)

Demonstrate team focus to meet work goals. (B5)

Equity, diversity and inclusion
K22
S20
B8

Principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and the impact on their work. (K22)

Follow equity, diversity and inclusion rules. (S20)

Support an inclusive workplace, being respectful of different views. (B8)

Continual professional development

S19
B7

None

Carry out and record learning and development activities. (S19)

Seek learning and development opportunities, continual professional development (CPD). (B7)

Knowledge test - integrated

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
GQA Certificate in Health Physics Monitoring in the nuclear industry (theory)
K1 K2 K3 K9 K10 K12 K14 K15 K16
S11

Awareness of nuclear safety: prevention of accidents, protection of people and the environment from radiation exposure and hazards. (K1)

Awareness of radiological safety: protection of people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionising radiation and contamination. (K2)

Safety expectations of those working on nuclear licensed sites: Confined spaces, Health and safety at work act. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH). Manual handling. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Respiratory Protection Equipment (RPE). Situational awareness. Slips, trips and falls. Safety equipment: guards, signage, fire extinguishers. Safe systems of working. Working at height. (K3)

Awareness of radiation types: non-ionising and ionising radiation, alpha, beta, gamma, x-ray and neutron. Atomic structure, criticality, fusion and fission. (K9)

Types of radiation sources and materials. (K10)

Identification and purpose of radiological monitoring instruments including personal monitoring equipment (electronic and non-electronic): measurement and referencing levels of ionising radiation detection and exposure. (K12)

Numerical calculation techniques for radiological data and SI units. (K14)

Emergency response radiological incident contingency plans: emergency environmental radiological releases, critical incident monitoring, forward control points (FCP) and access control points (ACP), supervised and designated areas. (K15)

Regulatory and legislative guidance: Nuclear Installations Act (NIA), Ionising Radiation Regulations (IRR), Radiation (Emergency Preparedness and Public Information) Regulations (REPPIR), International Commission of Radiological Protection (ICRP), Approved Code of Practice (ACOP). (K16)

Perform numerical calculations for radiological measurements with SI units. (S11)

None

Employers involved in creating the standard: Sellafield Ltd, EDF, Westinghouse, National Nuclear Laboratory, Nuclear Waste Services, Cavendish Nuclear, Nuvia, AWE, Babcock International, NSAN

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.1 Occupational standard, end point assessment plan and funding band revised. 26/06/2024 Not set Not set
1.0 Approved for delivery 03/09/2015 25/06/2024 Not set

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