Operating the signals and electrical controls needed to keep trains running safely and on time.
This occupation is found in the rail sector across different types of organisations that together deliver the United Kingdom’s integrated rail system. This includes employers operating mainline and local rail networks, underground networks, and high-speed rail lines. Depending on type of network, rail infrastructure operators can expect to typically be based either in a small control location or a major operations control room. They may at times be required to go trackside. Rail infrastructure operators usually work shift patterns, helping to keep the rail network safe 24 hours a day.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to ensure trains travel on the network safely and efficiently to plan. They do this in a number of ways. They use signalling and train control systems to manage the rail transport network in line with an agreed train plan/timetable. This means making tactical decisions about how to best implement the plan so the network runs smoothly. They also respond to incidents, where the operational integrity of the rail transport network is affected. Particular features of this occupation are being fully aware of everything that might impact rail operations, plus the ability to maintain high levels of concentration and decide complex issues very quickly.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with many other stakeholders who contribute to making rail journeys happen on the network. Depending on the type of line, they typically interact with train drivers, maintenance staff, power suppliers, infrastructure controllers and specialists e.g., emergency services to respond effectively to incidents. They also communicate with other operators in different sectors of the rail industry, such as station staff or train crew. They liaise in order to safely deliver the agreed rail timetable, as well as manage variations caused by short notice changes to demand and circumstances e.g., disruption caused by extreme weather.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for operating the signalling and train control systems that provide access to the rail network for all train service groups running in the specific geographical area. Rail infrastructure operators are responsible for monitoring the progress of all the live rail movements within their area against predetermined train plans/timetables. Rail Infrastructure operators don’t design timetables, but they have the powers to adjust planned services where this will help efficiency or avoid disruption, communicating changes to those affected. They balance the needs of passenger and freight operators within the constraints of the rules, local railway infrastructure, signalling system and rolling stock. Safety is the priority and all decisions taken by the rail infrastructure operator must be complaint with rail regulations. Throughout their shift, a rail infrastructure operator must keep a careful log of all notable events. And they are typically expected to provide reports on network performance, as required by their own organisation. At the start and end of a shift, they provide and receive handovers to colleagues, that ensures continuity of service. They are responsible for proactively identifying incidents and disruptions. When this happens, they are responsible for making the rail infrastructure safe and minimising service disruptions. Such events can range from low-level situations (e.g., level crossing failure and animals on the line) through to supporting major incidents (e.g., derailment, fatalities and fire). Depending on the nature and scale, they will either take direct action or work alongside specialists by communicating what’s needed and sharing information, to return to safe operations and minimise service disruptions. During normal working rail infrastructure operators work within defined areas of responsibility with complete autonomy for the area they control in terms of safety and performance. Decisions are sometimes escalated to a line manager or technical expert in times of disruption when the needs of the whole network need to be considered.
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.
An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.
Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.
The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 18 months. The EPA period is typically 3 months.
The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:
When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.
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:
Practical assessment with questions
You will be observed by an independent assessor completing a set of tasks. It will last 3 hours. They will ask you at least 9 questions.
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
You will have a professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 90 minutes. They will ask you at least 12 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.
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.
This apprenticeship aligns with Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) for Associate
Please contact the professional body for more details.
This occupation is found in the rail sector across different types of organisations that together deliver the United Kingdom’s integrated rail system. This includes employers operating mainline and local rail networks, underground networks, and high-speed rail lines. Depending on type of network, rail infrastructure operators can expect to typically be based either in a small control location or a major operations control room. They may at times be required to go trackside. Rail infrastructure operators usually work shift patterns, helping to keep the rail network safe 24 hours a day.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to ensure trains travel on the network safely and efficiently to plan. They do this in a number of ways. They use signalling and train control systems to manage the rail transport network in line with an agreed train plan/timetable. This means making tactical decisions about how to best implement the plan so the network runs smoothly. They also respond to incidents, where the operational integrity of the rail transport network is affected. Particular features of this occupation are being fully aware of everything that might impact rail operations, plus the ability to maintain high levels of concentration and decide complex issues very quickly.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with many other stakeholders who contribute to making rail journeys happen on the network. Depending on the type of line, they typically interact with train drivers, maintenance staff, power suppliers, infrastructure controllers and specialists e.g., emergency services to respond effectively to incidents. They also communicate with other operators in different sectors of the rail industry, such as station staff or train crew. They liaise in order to safely deliver the agreed rail timetable, as well as manage variations caused by short notice changes to demand and circumstances e.g., disruption caused by extreme weather.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for operating the signalling and train control systems that provide access to the rail network for all train service groups running in the specific geographical area. Rail infrastructure operators are responsible for monitoring the progress of all the live rail movements within their area against predetermined train plans/timetables. Rail Infrastructure operators don’t design timetables, but they have the powers to adjust planned services where this will help efficiency or avoid disruption, communicating changes to those affected. They balance the needs of passenger and freight operators within the constraints of the rules, local railway infrastructure, signalling system and rolling stock. Safety is the priority and all decisions taken by the rail infrastructure operator must be complaint with rail regulations. Throughout their shift, a rail infrastructure operator must keep a careful log of all notable events. And they are typically expected to provide reports on network performance, as required by their own organisation. At the start and end of a shift, they provide and receive handovers to colleagues, that ensures continuity of service. They are responsible for proactively identifying incidents and disruptions. When this happens, they are responsible for making the rail infrastructure safe and minimising service disruptions. Such events can range from low-level situations (e.g., level crossing failure and animals on the line) through to supporting major incidents (e.g., derailment, fatalities and fire). Depending on the nature and scale, they will either take direct action or work alongside specialists by communicating what’s needed and sharing information, to return to safe operations and minimise service disruptions. During normal working rail infrastructure operators work within defined areas of responsibility with complete autonomy for the area they control in terms of safety and performance. Decisions are sometimes escalated to a line manager or technical expert in times of disruption when the needs of the whole network need to be considered.
Need to enter wording around 18 minimum age
Duty | KSBs |
---|---|
Duty 1 Operate compliantly in accordance with regulatory and organisational requirements. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 2 Prepare and deliver a handover at the beginning and the end of your shift. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 3 Proactively working with other stakeholders involved in enabling the rail network to operate safely and efficiently. E.g., arranging protection to maintenance working on track, station staff, train operating companies and train crew. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 4 Control train movements in line with planned timetables. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 5 Manage the progress of rail traffic against the timetable and adjust operations to help maintain efficient train services and avoid disruption. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 6 Manage your area of control, be situationally aware and respond to any reports of issues and/or concerns. E.g., reports of trespasses and animals on the line. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 7 Contribute to the handling of routine degraded working, non-routine, and emergency incidents, as necessary. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 8 Return the rail network to normal operation following an incident or disruption including working to any service recovery and mitigating the impact to customers. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 9 Provide reports on network performance in line with requirements |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 10 Take responsibility for information received regarding incidents and delays to proactively manage disruption to train services and return train services to normal timetable as soon as possible. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 11 Clearly communicate any alterations to the published train service that may affect the service to the customer. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
Duty 12 Maintain a log of activities and decisions relevant to the delivery of the train service, and during incidents. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 |
K1: The component parts of the railway system including different railway organisations, industry bodies and business systems such as planning, performance management and asset management.
Back to Duty
K2: Events that have shaped the evolution of the railway in Great Britain and how these have influenced change in the industry, including significant train accidents, significant timetable and network disruptions, the role of the unions and modernisation programmes.
Back to Duty
K3: The relevant safety legislation and procedures, where applicable, to an operating railway including risk assessments, safety management systems, and safety culture.
Back to Duty
K4: The operating procedures required to support the operation of a railway system, and manage planned, unplanned, and emergency situations that can occur on the network.
Back to Duty
K5: The operational planning and timetabling principles and processes that underpin an effective train plan, resource plan, and engineering works programme.
Back to Duty
K6: Awareness of environment and sustainability regulations, relevance to the occupation and the operator's responsibilities.
Back to Duty
K7: Principles and policies of equality, diversion and inclusion in the workplace.
Back to Duty
K8: The requirements for testing operational equipment, operational work locations and systems including pre-work and in-work testing.
Back to Duty
K9: Handover requirements at the beginning, during and end of a shift.
Back to Duty
K10: The roles and responsibilities of different colleagues and stakeholders that combine to provide an effective network.
Back to Duty
K11: Limits of authority, when to escalate tasks and issues, and to whom.
Back to Duty
K12: Common complaints, their causes and mitigators, for passengers and/or freight and other users of the network, such as staffing issues, onboard train incidents, passenger incidents at stations.
Back to Duty
K13: Communication techniques: verbal and written, including specific protocols for communicating safety critical information.
Back to Duty
K14: Their organisations commercial or operational priorities.
Back to Duty
K15: The type of incidents and events which can occur on a network, the impact they have on passengers, freight, staff, and the associated safety mitigation and recovery procedures.
Back to Duty
K16: Different types of investigations that apply to train running incidents and infrastructure related events and staff accidents, and the associated reporting procedures.
Back to Duty
K17: The internal and external stakeholder roles and responsibilities of those involved in the different stages of an incident including response, recovery and lessons learnt.
Back to Duty
K18: Strategies for collaborative working to manage conflicting aims and objectives, resolve conflict and reach effective consensus.
Back to Duty
K19: Principles of risk-based decision making to support safe network operation including knowledge of different sources of information that inform those decisions, such as drawings, plans, schedules, safe systems of work, permits, relevant stakeholders and experts.
Back to Duty
K20: The principles of personal responsibility in a safety critical work environment.
Back to Duty
K21: When and how to challenge others to ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures.
Back to Duty
K22: Factors that affect decision making when working under pressure in planned, unplanned and emergency situations
Back to Duty
K23: Strategies for effective decision making, such as informed prioritisation, compliance with procedures, and training.
Back to Duty
S1: Apply risk-based safety principles to ways of working and decision-making.
Back to Duty
S2: Operate and manage train control and information systems to support the operation of a railway system.
Back to Duty
S3: Apply statutory and company environmental safe working practices during planned, unplanned and emergency situations.
Back to Duty
S4: Operate and manage the train service in accordance with the train plan. Respond and adapt when disruptions occur to the planned service.
Back to Duty
S5: Identify, report and record information, using correct terms, standards, templates, and protocols.
Back to Duty
S6: Produces and manages a train plan, resource plan or engineering works programme.
Back to Duty
S7: Maintain safety and security of own work environment.
Back to Duty
S8: Identify and manage personal mental and physical fitness for duty, and role model mental and physical fitness for duty for others in the context of maintaining safety.
Back to Duty
S9: Negotiate with colleagues or stakeholders, for example to access equipment or arrange system outage.
Back to Duty
S10: Respond to and resolve common complaints.
Back to Duty
S11: Communicate with others, for example internal and external stakeholders, colleagues, and managers.
Back to Duty
S12: Identify, carry out and record role and industry related CPD activities to improve own practice.
Back to Duty
S13: Respond to and act upon information received regarding incidents and delays to manage the disruption to train services and return them to the scheduled timetable.
Back to Duty
S14: Implement initial response and incident management plans to match the scale of the situation and minimise the impact to the wider network, stakeholders and experts.
Back to Duty
S15: Initiate and facilitate investigations into incidents and events. Adhere to reporting procedures for different types of investigations including unplanned and emergency incidents or events.
Back to Duty
S16: Work collaboratively with internal and external parties as appropriate to resolve problems and deliver an efficient train service.
Back to Duty
S17: Explore and gather information from a range of sources needed to support operating activities and decisions.
Back to Duty
S18: Takes responsibility for the safety of themselves and others in a safety critical work environment.
Back to Duty
S19: Challenge others and escalate safety issues to comply with safety regulations and procedures.
Back to Duty
S20: Prioritise workload, for example balancing incident and event recovery with maintaining other services.
Back to Duty
B1: Puts safety first for themselves and others.
Back to Duty
B2: Takes responsibility for the quality of work and enables others to work to high standards.
Back to Duty
B3: Supports an inclusive workplace, for example respectful of different views.
Back to Duty
B4: Embeds their organisations commercial, operational, ethical, and safety priorities into their own practice over time.
Back to Duty
B5: Willingness and ability to learn.
Back to Duty
B6: Adapt to, and resilient in, challenging or changing situations.
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.
This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:
V1.1
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the rail infrastructure operator 2022 apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Rail infrastructure operator 2022 apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time rail infrastructure operator 2022 apprentice typically spends 18 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway). The apprentice must spend at least 12 months on-programme and complete the required amount of off-the-job training in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
The apprentice must complete their training and meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA. The EPA will assess occupational competence.
An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).
This EPA has 2 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - simulated practical assessment with questions:
Assessment method 2 - professional discussion 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:
On-programme - typically 18 months
|
The apprentice must:
|
---|---|
End-point assessment gateway
|
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship. The apprentice must:
For the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.
The apprentice must submit the gateway evidence to their EPAO, including any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO. |
End-point assessment - typically 3 months
|
The grades available for each assessment method are below
Simulated practical assessment with questions:
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
|
Professional recognition
|
This apprenticeship aligns with Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) for Associate.
|
The EPA will be taken within the EPA period. The EPA period begins when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements are met and is typically 3 months.
The expectation is that the EPAO will confirm the gateway requirements are met and the EPA begins as quickly as possible.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice has attained sufficient KSBs to complete the apprenticeship. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
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 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:
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 discussion . The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the discussion. 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.
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.
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.
This EPA method is being used because this is a practical occupation requiring the demonstration of knowledge, skills and behaviours. Using equipment, software or both that will ensure that safety-critical aspects can be tested in a manner that is repeatable and consistent. The breadth of knowledge, skills and behaviours are unlikely to occur in a specific real-life scenario and this method ensures consistency for candidates operating across a range of scenarios. This is a cost-effective method of testing, ensuring the availability of equipment at a specific time. Tasks will be observed live by the independent assessor. This will ensure validity.
The simulated 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 simulated 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 6 weeks' notice of the . simulated practical assessment with questions
The simulated practical assessment with questions must take 3 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the simulated 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 simulated practical assessment with questions may take place in parts but must be completed over 1 working day. A working day is typically considered to be 7.5 hours long. The reason for this split is it will allow for the planned, unplanned and emergency scenarios to be assessed as discrete events. This will allow the independent assessor to identify appropriate KSBs as the basis for questioning.
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 simulated 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:
1. Planned scenario
A planned event, including but not limited to:
2. Unplanned scenario
An unplanned event, including but not limited to:
3. Emergency situation scenario
An emergency situation, including but not limited to:
These activities provide the apprentice with the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
The independent assessor must ask questions. to enable the apprentice to demonstrate competency against all targeted KSBs, that have not been assessed during the practical assessment. The independent assessor will ask a minimum of 3 open questions during each of the planned, unplanned and emergency scenarios, totalling a minimum of 9 questions. The independent assessor should use questions from a question bank generated by the EPAO and they can tailor these questions based on what they observe in order to assess underpinning KSBs.
Questioning must be completed within the total time allowed for the practical assessment. There may be breaks during the practical demonstration to allow the apprentice to move from one location to another and for meal breaks. Any breaks that occur do not count towards the assessment time. KSBs observed and answers to questions must be documented by the independent assessor.
Questioning can occur both during and after the practical assessment. The time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The independent assessor must ask at least 9 questions. To remain as unobtrusive as possible, the independent assessor should ask questions during natural stops between tasks and after completion of work rather than disrupting the apprentice’s flow. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training.
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 simulated 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 simulated 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 simulated practical assessment with questions must be provided by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these.
Additional venue requirements that must be in place include:
Practical assessments must be conducted in one of the following locations:
Prior to the practical assessment taking place the employer will provide the necessary equipment and resources.
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 simulated practical assessment with questions:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the professional discussion, an independent assessor and apprentice have a formal two-way conversation. 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 EPA method is being used because some KSBs need more nuanced questioning than a practical assessment can provide. This is a good way in which to assess a disparate range of KSBs because they can only be carried out at specific times when incidents have occurred. The portfolio forms the basis of the discussion.
The professional discussion 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 professional discussion.
The independent assessor will conduct and assess the professional discussion. The apprentice may use their portfolio to support their responses.
The professional discussion will be conducted as set out here:
The professional discussion is to be conducted on a one-to-one basis. Apprentices must be assessed against the KSBs assigned to this assessment method as shown in the mapping of KSBs. Apprentices are expected to understand and use relevant occupational language that would be typical of a competent person in this occupation.
During this method, the independent assessor must combine questions from the EPAO's question bank and are expected to use their professional judgement to tailor those questions appropriately. The apprentice can use the portfolio of evidence to support answers being given.
KSBs met and answers to questions must be recorded by the independent assessor.
The independent assessor must use the assessment tools and procedures that are set by the EPAO to record the professional discussion.
The independent assessor will make all grading decisions.
The EPAO must give an apprentice 6 weeks' notice of the professional discussion.
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 professional discussion.
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 professional discussion must last for 90 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the professional discussion 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 12 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in line with the EPAO’s training. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The professional discussion must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The professional discussion 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 professional discussion 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 professional discussion 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
|
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
|
---|---|---|
Legislation and underpinning principles
K4 K5 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 B2 |
Applies procedures to operate and manage train control and information systems in different contexts and circumstances, in planned, unplanned and emergency situations, in line with company procedures. Records decisions and reports actions in line with company reporting procedures (K4, S2, S3, S4, S5, B2) Creates and manages a train plan, resource plan or engineering works programme within own area of responsibility, balancing efficiency and passenger or freight requirements, in line with organisational guidelines. (K5, S6)
|
Evaluates and justifies the choices made when creating and managing a train plan, resource plan or engineering works programme, that mitigate issues and balance efficiency and passenger or freight requirements, in line with organisational guidelines (K5, S6) |
Ways of Working
K9 K12 K13 S8 S10 S11 |
Completes the procedures to be followed for a handover at the beginning, end of and during a shift in line with organisational procedures, ensuring responsibilities for managing fitness for duty in themselves and others are met (K9, S8) Responds to common complaints, resolving issues in order to improve performance and customer satisfaction (K12, S10) Selects and uses verbal and written techniques to ensure information is communicated efficiently and in line with organisation and safety critical communications protocols (K13, S11) |
Resolves complaints in ways that mitigate the issue from reoccurring in future, in order to maintain an efficient service with lower levels of complaints (K12, S10) |
Incidents
K15 K16 S13 S14 S15 B6 |
Selects and applies a management and recovery plan in response to a given event or incident, adapting to changing circumstances and information, in order to minimise disruption to train service and minimise impact on the wider network (K15, S13, S14, B6) Carries out investigations relevant to the incident or event, including those for planned and unplanned incidents or events and completes the reporting procedures in line with regulatory and organisational procedures (K16, S15)
|
N/A |
Decisions
K22 K23 S20 |
Considers and balances differing services, stakeholders and priorities when making decisions that impact the railway, reaching outcomes that are compliant with organisational procedures and ensure a safe and efficient service (K22, K23, S20) |
N/A |
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
|
---|---|---|
Legislation and underpinning principles
K1 K2 K3 K6 K7 S1 B1 B3 |
Discusses the structure, function and evolution of the railway in Great Britain, including significant incidents and how these have influenced change in the industry (K1, K2) Describes how they have effectively applied the principles of risk-based safety, to mitigate risks and maintain personal and public safety and comply with relevant legislation (K3, S1, B1) Explains how they have effectively applied environmental and sustainable practices through their actions, in line with organisational requirements (K6) Fosters an approach to communication and workplace relationships which models the guidelines on equality, diversity and inclusion as set out by national regulatory guidance and or company policy (K7, B3) |
N/A |
Ways of Working
K8 K10 K11 K14 S7 S9 S12 B4 B5 |
Explains the different methods of testing equipment, systems and operational work locations used to ensure system safety, and the steps followed to ensure the safety and security of themselves and their work environment, in line with company requirements (K8, S7) Describes how they have applied negotiation techniques to reach an intended outcome that supports the delivery of an effective network (K10, S9) Describes their limits of authority, including how they would escalate issues and tasks that fall outside of their authority, and to whom they would do this, in line with the remit of their role (K11) Explains how their organisations’ priorities, and their own Continuous Professional Development, have influenced their practice to improve and support commercial, operational, ethical and safety priorities (K14, S12, B4, B5) |
N/A |
Incidents
K17 K18 S16 |
Explains how they work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to effectively manage disruption to service (K17, K18, S16) |
Evaluates the impact of collaborative working in delivering an efficient train service when the resolution of problems is required (K18, S16) |
Decisions
K19 K20 K21 S17 S18 S19 |
Describes how they source and use data and information to complete operating activities and risk based decision-making tasks in line with statutory, regulatory, and organisational procedures (K19, S17) Describes when and how to challenge unsafe acts and conditions where breaches or potential to breach safety regulations and procedures occur (K20, K21, S18, S19) |
Justifies their use of data and information sources when making risk-based decisions to support a safe network operation (K19, S17) |
The assessment methods contribute equally to the overall EPA pass grade.
Performance in the EPA determines the apprenticeship grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the simulated practical assessment with questions and professional discussion 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 or more assessment methods, they will be awarded an overall EPA fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice should achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. Due to the safety critical nature related to competency in this occupation in order to achieve an overall EPA pass, apprentices must achieve a pass in the simulated practical assessment method and a pass in the professional discussion assessment method.
Grades from individual assessment methods should be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.
Simulated practical assessment with questions | Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence | Overall Grading |
---|---|---|
Pass | Pass | Pass |
Pass | Distinction | Pass |
Distinction | Pass | Pass |
Distinction | Distinction | Distinction |
Apprentices who fail one or more EPA method(s) can take a re-sit or a re-take at the 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.
Apprentices should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.
The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 1 month 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 3 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed EPA 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 apprentices wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
An 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:
|
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.
Internal quality assurance refers to how EPAOs ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions. EPAOs must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities section and:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship aligns with:
Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) for Associate
Knowledge | Assessment methods |
---|---|
K1
The component parts of the railway system including different railway organisations, industry bodies and business systems such as planning, performance management and asset management. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K2
Events that have shaped the evolution of the railway in Great Britain and how these have influenced change in the industry, including significant train accidents, significant timetable and network disruptions, the role of the unions and modernisation programmes. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K3
The relevant safety legislation and procedures, where applicable, to an operating railway including risk assessments, safety management systems, and safety culture. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K4
The operating procedures required to support the operation of a railway system, and manage planned, unplanned, and emergency situations that can occur on the network. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K5
The operational planning and timetabling principles and processes that underpin an effective train plan, resource plan, and engineering works programme. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K6
Awareness of environment and sustainability regulations, relevance to the occupation and the operator's responsibilities. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K7
Principles and policies of equality, diversion and inclusion in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K8
The requirements for testing operational equipment, operational work locations and systems including pre-work and in-work testing. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K9
Handover requirements at the beginning, during and end of a shift. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K10
The roles and responsibilities of different colleagues and stakeholders that combine to provide an effective network. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K11
Limits of authority, when to escalate tasks and issues, and to whom. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K12
Common complaints, their causes and mitigators, for passengers and/or freight and other users of the network, such as staffing issues, onboard train incidents, passenger incidents at stations. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K13
Communication techniques: verbal and written, including specific protocols for communicating safety critical information. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K14
Their organisations commercial or operational priorities. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K15
The type of incidents and events which can occur on a network, the impact they have on passengers, freight, staff, and the associated safety mitigation and recovery procedures. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K16
Different types of investigations that apply to train running incidents and infrastructure related events and staff accidents, and the associated reporting procedures. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K17
The internal and external stakeholder roles and responsibilities of those involved in the different stages of an incident including response, recovery and lessons learnt. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K18
Strategies for collaborative working to manage conflicting aims and objectives, resolve conflict and reach effective consensus. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K19
Principles of risk-based decision making to support safe network operation including knowledge of different sources of information that inform those decisions, such as drawings, plans, schedules, safe systems of work, permits, relevant stakeholders and experts. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K20
The principles of personal responsibility in a safety critical work environment. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K21
When and how to challenge others to ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
K22
Factors that affect decision making when working under pressure in planned, unplanned and emergency situations Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
K23
Strategies for effective decision making, such as informed prioritisation, compliance with procedures, and training. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
Skill | Assessment methods |
---|---|
S1
Apply risk-based safety principles to ways of working and decision-making. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S2
Operate and manage train control and information systems to support the operation of a railway system. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S3
Apply statutory and company environmental safe working practices during planned, unplanned and emergency situations. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S4
Operate and manage the train service in accordance with the train plan. Respond and adapt when disruptions occur to the planned service. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S5
Identify, report and record information, using correct terms, standards, templates, and protocols. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S6
Produces and manages a train plan, resource plan or engineering works programme. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S7
Maintain safety and security of own work environment. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S8
Identify and manage personal mental and physical fitness for duty, and role model mental and physical fitness for duty for others in the context of maintaining safety. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S9
Negotiate with colleagues or stakeholders, for example to access equipment or arrange system outage. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S10
Respond to and resolve common complaints. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S11
Communicate with others, for example internal and external stakeholders, colleagues, and managers. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S12
Identify, carry out and record role and industry related CPD activities to improve own practice. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S13
Respond to and act upon information received regarding incidents and delays to manage the disruption to train services and return them to the scheduled timetable. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S14
Implement initial response and incident management plans to match the scale of the situation and minimise the impact to the wider network, stakeholders and experts. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S15
Initiate and facilitate investigations into incidents and events. Adhere to reporting procedures for different types of investigations including unplanned and emergency incidents or events. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
S16
Work collaboratively with internal and external parties as appropriate to resolve problems and deliver an efficient train service. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S17
Explore and gather information from a range of sources needed to support operating activities and decisions. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S18
Takes responsibility for the safety of themselves and others in a safety critical work environment. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S19
Challenge others and escalate safety issues to comply with safety regulations and procedures. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
S20
Prioritise workload, for example balancing incident and event recovery with maintaining other services. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
Behaviour | Assessment methods |
---|---|
B1
Puts safety first for themselves and others. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
B2
Takes responsibility for the quality of work and enables others to work to high standards. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
B3
Supports an inclusive workplace, for example respectful of different views. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
B4
Embeds their organisations commercial, operational, ethical, and safety priorities into their own practice over time. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
B5
Willingness and ability to learn. Back to Grading |
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence |
B6
Adapt to, and resilient in, challenging or changing situations. Back to Grading |
Simulated practical assessment with questions |
KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
---|---|---|---|
Legislation and underpinning principles
K4 K5 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 B2 |
The operating procedures required to support the operation of a railway system, and manage planned, unplanned, and emergency situations that can occur on the network. (K4) The operational planning and timetabling principles and processes that underpin an effective train plan, resource plan, and engineering works programme. (K5) |
Operate and manage train control and information systems to support the operation of a railway system. (S2) Apply statutory and company environmental safe working practices during planned, unplanned and emergency situations. (S3) Operate and manage the train service in accordance with the train plan. Respond and adapt when disruptions occur to the planned service. (S4) Identify, report and record information, using correct terms, standards, templates, and protocols. (S5) Produces and manages a train plan, resource plan or engineering works programme. (S6) |
Takes responsibility for the quality of work and enables others to work to high standards. (B2) |
Ways of Working
K9 K12 K13 S8 S10 S11 |
Handover requirements at the beginning, during and end of a shift. (K9) Common complaints, their causes and mitigators, for passengers and/or freight and other users of the network, such as staffing issues, onboard train incidents, passenger incidents at stations. (K12) Communication techniques: verbal and written, including specific protocols for communicating safety critical information. (K13) |
Identify and manage personal mental and physical fitness for duty, and role model mental and physical fitness for duty for others in the context of maintaining safety. (S8) Respond to and resolve common complaints. (S10) Communicate with others, for example internal and external stakeholders, colleagues, and managers. (S11) |
None |
Incidents
K15 K16 S13 S14 S15 B6 |
The type of incidents and events which can occur on a network, the impact they have on passengers, freight, staff, and the associated safety mitigation and recovery procedures. (K15) Different types of investigations that apply to train running incidents and infrastructure related events and staff accidents, and the associated reporting procedures. (K16) |
Respond to and act upon information received regarding incidents and delays to manage the disruption to train services and return them to the scheduled timetable. (S13) Implement initial response and incident management plans to match the scale of the situation and minimise the impact to the wider network, stakeholders and experts. (S14) Initiate and facilitate investigations into incidents and events. Adhere to reporting procedures for different types of investigations including unplanned and emergency incidents or events. (S15) |
Adapt to, and resilient in, challenging or changing situations. (B6) |
Decisions
K22 K23 S20 |
Factors that affect decision making when working under pressure in planned, unplanned and emergency situations (K22) Strategies for effective decision making, such as informed prioritisation, compliance with procedures, and training. (K23) |
Prioritise workload, for example balancing incident and event recovery with maintaining other services. (S20) |
None |
KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
---|---|---|---|
Legislation and underpinning principles
K1 K2 K3 K6 K7 S1 B1 B3 |
The component parts of the railway system including different railway organisations, industry bodies and business systems such as planning, performance management and asset management. (K1) Events that have shaped the evolution of the railway in Great Britain and how these have influenced change in the industry, including significant train accidents, significant timetable and network disruptions, the role of the unions and modernisation programmes. (K2) The relevant safety legislation and procedures, where applicable, to an operating railway including risk assessments, safety management systems, and safety culture. (K3) Awareness of environment and sustainability regulations, relevance to the occupation and the operator's responsibilities. (K6) Principles and policies of equality, diversion and inclusion in the workplace. (K7) |
Apply risk-based safety principles to ways of working and decision-making. (S1) |
Puts safety first for themselves and others. (B1) Supports an inclusive workplace, for example respectful of different views. (B3) |
Ways of Working
K8 K10 K11 K14 S7 S9 S12 B4 B5 |
The requirements for testing operational equipment, operational work locations and systems including pre-work and in-work testing. (K8) The roles and responsibilities of different colleagues and stakeholders that combine to provide an effective network. (K10) Limits of authority, when to escalate tasks and issues, and to whom. (K11) Their organisations commercial or operational priorities. (K14) |
Maintain safety and security of own work environment. (S7) Negotiate with colleagues or stakeholders, for example to access equipment or arrange system outage. (S9) Identify, carry out and record role and industry related CPD activities to improve own practice. (S12) |
Embeds their organisations commercial, operational, ethical, and safety priorities into their own practice over time. (B4) Willingness and ability to learn. (B5) |
Incidents
K17 K18 S16 |
The internal and external stakeholder roles and responsibilities of those involved in the different stages of an incident including response, recovery and lessons learnt. (K17) Strategies for collaborative working to manage conflicting aims and objectives, resolve conflict and reach effective consensus. (K18) |
Work collaboratively with internal and external parties as appropriate to resolve problems and deliver an efficient train service. (S16) |
None |
Decisions
K19 K20 K21 S17 S18 S19 |
Principles of risk-based decision making to support safe network operation including knowledge of different sources of information that inform those decisions, such as drawings, plans, schedules, safe systems of work, permits, relevant stakeholders and experts. (K19) The principles of personal responsibility in a safety critical work environment. (K20) When and how to challenge others to ensure compliance with safety regulations and procedures. (K21) |
Explore and gather information from a range of sources needed to support operating activities and decisions. (S17) Takes responsibility for the safety of themselves and others in a safety critical work environment. (S18) Challenge others and escalate safety issues to comply with safety regulations and procedures. (S19) |
None |
Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
---|---|---|---|---|
1.1 | End-point assessment plan revised | 04/09/2024 | Not set | Not set |
1.0 | Approved for delivery | 21/09/2022 | 03/09/2024 | Not set |
Crown copyright © 2024. You may re-use this information (not including logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence. Visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence