This apprenticeship standard has been approved for delivery by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. However, starts on the apprenticeship will only be possible once a suitable end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) has obtained Ofqual recognition. Once the EPAO has obtained Ofqual recognition, funding for apprentice starts will be permitted and this message will be removed.
Conduct routine inspections, maintenance tasks and minor planned and responsive repair works to buildings and structures at height.
This occupation is found in the construction, heritage facilities management, infrastructure, transportation, heavy industry including utilities and petrochemical sectors. Steeplejacks are needed when conventional modes of access have been considered but deemed unfeasible. They typically work for specialist contractors. The range of size of this kind of employer around the UK varies from micro employers up to large employers.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to conduct routine inspections, maintenance tasks and minor planned and responsive repair works to buildings and structures at height. The principal skill and benefit of steeplejack services centres around the complexity of access to a structure. Steeplejacks erect high ladders, work in a team to build steeplejack scaffolding, set up various motorised access equipment and climb and abseil structures using various methods such as rope access.
Steeplejacks work outdoors at varying heights, in all weather conditions. The work is physically demanding and includes rigging, climbing, and carrying ladders, tools, and safety equipment at height. Steeplejacks wear protective clothing and headgear.
The hours of work vary. Shifts and overtime, including evenings and weekends, may be required.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their immediate team, project managers, supervisors and safety representatives, contractors, site management and safety teams which could include a senior or craft steeplejack providing advice and guidance They could also interact with clients or their representatives, materials, and equipment suppliers.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working in a team, using equipment, materials and tools to access work at height. Steeplejacks follow method statements and safe systems of work, liaise and agree work areas with construction site management teams and or building managers and client representatives.
They are responsible for recognising their own level of competence, and report back to their supervisor or manager. Management will make the decision to amend the works required within the competence of the operative or assign the job to a craft steeplejack or more experienced professional. Steeplejacks may be required to establish their own safety equipment to ensure safe access, safe system of work and safe egress, along with protection of the public or building users, in line with statutory rules, regulations, company protocols and guidance.
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 24 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 5 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 8 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 occupation is found in the construction, heritage facilities management, infrastructure, transportation, heavy industry including utilities and petrochemical sectors. Steeplejacks are needed when conventional modes of access have been considered but deemed unfeasible. They typically work for specialist contractors. The range of size of this kind of employer around the UK varies from micro employers up to large employers.
The broad purpose of the occupation is to conduct routine inspections, maintenance tasks and minor planned and responsive repair works to buildings and structures at height. The principal skill and benefit of steeplejack services centres around the complexity of access to a structure. Steeplejacks erect high ladders, work in a team to build steeplejack scaffolding, set up various motorised access equipment and climb and abseil structures using various methods such as rope access.
Steeplejacks work outdoors at varying heights, in all weather conditions. The work is physically demanding and includes rigging, climbing, and carrying ladders, tools, and safety equipment at height. Steeplejacks wear protective clothing and headgear.
The hours of work vary. Shifts and overtime, including evenings and weekends, may be required.
In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with their immediate team, project managers, supervisors and safety representatives, contractors, site management and safety teams which could include a senior or craft steeplejack providing advice and guidance They could also interact with clients or their representatives, materials, and equipment suppliers.
An employee in this occupation will be responsible for working in a team, using equipment, materials and tools to access work at height. Steeplejacks follow method statements and safe systems of work, liaise and agree work areas with construction site management teams and or building managers and client representatives.
They are responsible for recognising their own level of competence, and report back to their supervisor or manager. Management will make the decision to amend the works required within the competence of the operative or assign the job to a craft steeplejack or more experienced professional. Steeplejacks may be required to establish their own safety equipment to ensure safe access, safe system of work and safe egress, along with protection of the public or building users, in line with statutory rules, regulations, company protocols and guidance.
| Duty | KSBs |
|---|---|
|
Duty 1 Work in compliance with occupational health, safety and environmental requirements to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of self and others at all times. Report in a timely manner any non-compliances against the construction programme to the appropriate person. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 2 Select, use, and maintain tools, components, and equipment appropriate to the task being carried out. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 3 Erect ladders, work platforms, rig cradles, hoisting equipment and attach slings, bosun seats, hooks and guide ropes using appropriate tools and machinery. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 4 Erect steeplejack scaffolding using appropriate tools and machinery. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 5 Carry out routine inspections to buildings and structures using steeplejacking techniques. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 6 Carry out routine maintenance to built structures at height using steeeplejack access methods. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 7 Complete accurate records of work undertaken in accordance with company policies and procedures. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 8 Work to the brief, adapting to changes in schedule and requirements where necessary. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 9 Collaborate with stakeholders including clients and other construction trades. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 10 Maintain a clear and safe worksite at all times, disposing of waste appropriately and sustainably. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
|
Duty 11 Carry out continuous professional development to maintain knowledge of current and future developments affecting the role. |
K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K6 K7 K8 K9 K10 K11 K12 K13 K14 K15 K16 K17 K18 K19 K20 K21 K22 K23 K24 K25 K26 K27 K28 K29 K30 S1 S2 S3 S4 S5 S6 S7 S8 S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S14 S15 S16 S17 S18 S19 S20 S21 S22 S23 S24 |
K1: Health and safety regulations, standards and guidance relevant to the occupation and the individual's responsibilities.
Back to Duty
K2: Steeplejack regulatory and legislative requirements and their impact on individual’s responsibilities.
Back to Duty
K3: Principles of site induction and toolbox talks.
Back to Duty
K4: Safe systems of work, risk assessment and method statements: interpretation and application of control measures.
Back to Duty
K5: Personal protective equipment (PPE): types and tethering techniques.
Back to Duty
K6: Steeplejack height access techniques: laddering, motorised access equipment, and bosun seats.
Back to Duty
K7: BS7985 steeplejack rope access techniques.
Back to Duty
K8: Anchors for steeplejacking: types, selection, testing, removable and re-usable fixings.
Back to Duty
K9: Anchor for steeplejacking: fixing and removal techniques.
Back to Duty
K10: Types and uses of steeplejack scaffolding.
Back to Duty
K11: Methods of erecting and dismantling steeplejacking scaffolding.
Back to Duty
K12: The range of structure types and characteristic uses, their common methods of construction and typical defects, and the impact that steeple jacking operations might have on building safety.
Back to Duty
K13: The types, uses and safeguards of steeplejacking height access equipment: ladders, bosun seats, motorised access.
Back to Duty
K14: Common hand and power tools used in routine steeplejacking tasks including safeguarding and tethering techniques.
Back to Duty
K15: Equipment inspection methods: pre-use and post use checks, visual and functional checks.
Back to Duty
K16: Techniques to move and handle steeplejack materials, components and equipment manually and with lifting equipment.
Back to Duty
K17: Height access equipment storage techniques.
Back to Duty
K18: Routine maintenance techniques applied to built structures at height using steeplejack access methods.
Back to Duty
K19: Principles of inspecting buildings and built structures.
Back to Duty
K20: Methods of quality assuring own work.
Back to Duty
K21: The importance of customer service to their organisation, how to provide feedback to ensure customers are informed.
Back to Duty
K22: Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information from documentation: drawings, specifications and maintenance plans.
Back to Duty
K23: Environmental regulations and requirements: Environmental Protection Act, safe disposal of waste, minimising waste, re-use and re-cycle, waste contractors permit, energy efficiency, and contribution to net zero outcomes.
Back to Duty
K24: Team working techniques.
Back to Duty
K25: Principles of equity, diversity and inclusivity in the workplace.
Back to Duty
K26: Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support.
Back to Duty
K27: Verbal communication techniques and steeplejack terminology.
Back to Duty
K28: The processes and importance of escalating issues beyond their level of competence and authority.
Back to Duty
K29: Employment types - self-employed and employed, small business start up principles, tax responsibilities, roles and responsibilities.
Back to Duty
K30: Written communication techniques: paper based and digital.
Back to Duty
S1: Comply with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance.
Back to Duty
S2: Comply with safe systems of work and apply control measures.
Back to Duty
S3: Organise, maintain and reinstate the work area to safeguard themselves and others, including the use of signage and barriers.
Back to Duty
S4: Comply with environmental regulations and procedures. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
Back to Duty
S5: Select and use PPE and PPE tethering techniques.
Back to Duty
S6: Comply with industry regulatory and legislative requirements and standards.
Back to Duty
S7: Interpret information from documentation for example, drawings, specifications and maintenance plans.
Back to Duty
S8: Escalates issues beyond their level of competence and authority.
Back to Duty
S9: Select and use tools and equipment for steeplejacking maintenance tasks, including applying safeguards and tethers.
Back to Duty
S10: Select working at height equipment for accessing height including ladders, motorised access equipment, bosun seats and apply safeguards.
Back to Duty
S11: Inspect working at height equipment, including pre-use and post-use checks, visual and functional checks.
Back to Duty
S12: Move and handle steeplejacking material, components and equipment using manual and mechanical techniques.
Back to Duty
S13: Select, fix, and test steeplejack anchors.
Back to Duty
S14: Remove steeplejack anchors.
Back to Duty
S15: Use steeplejacking equipment and techniques to access work at height, including, laddering, motorised access, bosun seats.
Back to Duty
S16: Access height using BS7985 rope access techniques.
Back to Duty
S17: Store working at height equipment.
Back to Duty
S18: Work collaboratively to erect and dismantle steeplejack scaffolding.
Back to Duty
S19: Conduct routine inspections to structures at height using steeple jacking height access techniques.
Back to Duty
S20: Conduct routine maintenance to structures at height using steeple jack height access techniques. For example, cleaning gutters and minor repairs.
Back to Duty
S21: Record and report information.
Back to Duty
S22: Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers, colleagues, and managers.
Back to Duty
S23: Quality assure own work.
Back to Duty
S24: Apply team working techniques.
Back to Duty
B1: Puts health safety and wellbeing first.
Back to Duty
B2: Take ownership of given work.
Back to Duty
B3: Team-focused to meet work goals.
Back to Duty
B4: Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice.
Back to Duty
B5: Considers the environment and sustainability.
Back to Duty
B6: Supports equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace.
Back to Duty
B7: Adapt to new and changing situations.
Back to Duty
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.
V1.0
This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the steeplejack apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.
Steeplejack apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.
A full-time steeplejack 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 work with the training provider to select an approved EPAO from the apprenticeship providers and assessment register (APAR).
This EPA has 2 assessment methods.
The grades available for each assessment method are below.
Assessment method 1 - practical assessment with questions:
Assessment method 2 - interview underpinned by 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 24 months
|
The apprentice must:
|
|---|---|
|
End-point assessment gateway
|
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. The apprentice must:
For the interview underpinned by 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:
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence:
Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:
|
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.
The apprentice’s employer must be content that the apprentice is occupationally competent. That is, they are deemed to be working at or above the level set out in the apprenticeship standard and ready to undertake the EPA. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider, but the employer must make the decision. The apprentice will then enter the gateway.
The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.
They must:
Portfolio of evidence requirements:
The apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by the interview. It will typically contain 10 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:
At least one piece of discrete portfolio evidence provided in support of S19 or S20 must be carried out in a three-month period prior to the gateway and be confirmed by the employer as being carried out in this time frame. This is to ensure that steeple jacking maintenance skills are as up to date as possible.
This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.
The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance, for example, witness statements, rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.
The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the interview. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the interview. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.
Gateway evidence must be submitted to the EPAO, along with any organisation specific policies and procedures requested by the EPAO.
The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.
The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.
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 in which of the simulated environments 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 assessment method is being used because:
reduces the assessment burden on the apprentice
The practical assessment with questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the practical assessment with questions.
The independent assessor must only observe up to two apprentices 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 5 hours.
The independent assessor can increase the time of the practical assessment with questions by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete a task or respond to a question if necessary.
The practical assessment with questions 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:
General:
Task 1:
Task 2:
Special considerations should be given where there are unplanned safety critical factors which can change during the practical assessment time, for example, adverse weather, unknown damage to equipment or other safety concerns. If these factors do change and it is not possible or deemed unsafe to continue the practical assessment, the independent assessor must follow the special consideration policy outlined by the EPAO.
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 questions is:
Questions must be asked after the practical. The total duration of the practical is 5 hours and the time for questioning is included in the overall assessment time. The total time for the practical element is 4.75 hours. The time allocated for questioning is 15 minutes.
The independent assessor must ask at least 3 questions. 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 practical assessment with questions must take place in a simulated environment selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s premises, a training provider’s premises, a training facility in the employer’s premises, a test centre or a similar simulated environment. This simulated environment must relate to the apprentice’s natural work environment. Equipment and resources needed for the practical assessment with questions must be confirmed to be available by the EPAO, who can liaise with the employer to provide these. They must be in good and safe working condition.
Questioning that occurs after the practical assessment with questions should take place in a suitable environment for example 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 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:
The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation and moderation.
In the interview, an independent assessor asks the apprentice questions. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.
This assessment method is being used because:
reduces the assessment burden on the apprentice
The interview must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.
An independent assessor must conduct and assess the interview.
The purpose of the independent assessor’s questions will be to assess the apprentice’s competence against the following themes:
The EPAO must give an apprentice 2 weeks' notice of the interview.
The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to review the supporting documentation.
The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the interview.
The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence however, the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.
The interview must last for 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 8 questions. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank. Follow-up questions are allowed where clarification is required.
The apprentice may choose to end the assessment method early. The apprentice must be confident they have demonstrated competence against the assessment requirements for the assessment method. The independent assessor or EPAO must ensure the apprentice is fully aware of all assessment requirements. The independent assessor or EPAO cannot suggest or choose to end the assessment methods early, unless in an emergency. The EPAO is responsible for ensuring the apprentice understands the implications of ending an assessment early if they choose to do so. The independent assessor may suggest the assessment continues. The independent assessor must document the apprentice’s request to end the assessment early.
The independent assessor must make the grading decision.
The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:
The interview must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO for example, the EPAO’s or employer’s premises.
The interview can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.
The interview should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.
The EPAO must develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO must maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting with employers. The assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.
The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.
The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.
The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the interview underpinned by 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
|
|---|---|
|
Health and Safety
K1 S1 S3 B1 |
Puts health, safety, and welfare first and complies with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance. (K1, S1, B1) Organises and maintains the work area including the use of signage and barriers to protect self and others and reinstates upon completion, in line with task requirements and regulatory requirements. (S3)
|
|
Steeplejack equipment
K13 K15 K17 S10 S11 S17 |
Selects working at height equipment including ladders, motorised access and bosun seats and applies required safeguards in line with task requirements and statutory guidance. (K13, S10) Carries out visual, operational and functional inspection of working at height equipment prior to and after use in line with manufacturers and statutory guidance. (K15, S11) Stores working at height equipment in line with organisational procedures and manufacturer’s guidance. (K17, S17)
|
|
Steeplejack access techniques
K2 K6 K7 K8 K9 S6 S13 S14 S15 S16 |
Applies rope access techniques to access structures at height in line with BS7985 and task requirements. (K7, S16) Applies steeplejacking techniques to access structures at height using steeplejack equipment including ladders, motorised access and bosun seats in line with task requirements, manufacturers guidance and industry regulatory and legislative requirements and standards. (K2, K6, S6, S15) Selects, fixes and tests steeplejack anchors and removes upon completion in line with task requirements and regulatory guidance. (K8, K9, S13, S14)
|
|
Theme
KSBs
|
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all of the pass descriptors
|
|---|---|
|
Health and Safety
K3 K4 K5 K16 S2 S5 S12 |
Describes how they select, use and tether on personal protective equipment (PPE) for maintenance tasks, in line with organisational and regulatory guidance. (K5, S5) Describes how they move and handle steeple jack materials, components and equipment using manual and mechanical lifting techniques in line with task requirements and regulatory guidance. (K16, S12) Describes how they comply with safe systems of work, including site inductions and toolbox talks, risk assessments and method statements. Explains how they apply control measures in line with the safe system of work. (K3, K4, S2)
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Steeplejack maintenance and inspection techniques
K12 K18 K19 K28 S8 S19 S20 B7 |
Describes how they carry out routine inspections to structures at height using steeplejack access techniques in line with customer requirements or maintenance plans, organisational procedure and regulatory guidance. (K19, S19) Describes how they carry out routine maintenance to structures at height using steeplejack access techniques in line with customer requirements, drawings, specifications or maintenance plans, organisational procedures and regulatory guidance. (K12, K18, S20) Describes how they adapt to new and changing situations and how they escalate steeplejacking based issues that go beyond their level of competency and authority in line with organisational procedures. (K28, S8, B7)
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Steeplejack scaffolding
K10 K11 S18 |
Describes how they apply steeplejack scaffolding installation and dismantling methods when working collaboratively to erect and dismantle steeplejack scaffolding in line with organisational procedure and regulatory guidance. (K10, K11, S18) |
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Hand and power tools
K14 S9 |
Describes how they select and use tools and equipment, including the application of safeguards and tethering on when carrying out maintenance tasks at height in line with manufacturer’s instructions and regulatory guidance. (K14, S9) |
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Quality assurance
K20 S23 B2 |
Describes how they take ownership of their work and quality assure work which they have carried out at height in line with task requirements and organisational procedures. (K20, S23, B2) |
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Documentation and task recording
K22 K30 S7 S21 |
Describes how they interpret information from documentation in line with task requirements. (K22, S7) Describes how they use written communication techniques to record and report information for steeple jacking tasks using paper based or digital means in line with organisational procedures. (K30, S21)
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Sustainability and the environment
K23 S4 B5 |
Describes how steeple jacking operations impacts the wider environment and how they comply with environmental and sustainability legislation and guidance, through the sorting of resources for re-use, recycling and disposal of waste. (K23, S4, B5) |
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Communication, teamwork and business
K21 K24 K25 K27 K29 S22 S24 B3 B6 |
Describes how they apply team working principles to meet their team's work goals and support an equitable, diverse and inclusive culture when working with others. (K24, K25, S24, B3, B6) Describes how they use verbal communication techniques and apply steeplejack terminology when communicating with others. (K27, S22) Describes employment types available within the steeplejack industry, the principles of starting a business and how customer service levels can impact a business. (K21, K29)
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EDI, wellbeing and CPD
K26 B4 |
Describes learning and development they have completed and recorded to support competence in their role. (B4) Describes mental and physical health considerations of themselves and others and identifies sources of support available for themselves and others. (K26)
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Performance in the EPA determines the overall grade of:
An independent assessor must individually grade the practical assessment with questions and interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence in line with this EPA plan.
The EPAO must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.
If the apprentice fails one assessment method or more, they will be awarded an overall fail.
To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. Due to the safety critical nature of the industry the EPA is graded as pass or fail only.
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 portfolio of evidence | Overall Grading |
|---|---|---|
| Fail | Pass | Fail |
| Pass | Fail | Fail |
| Pass | Pass | Pass |
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 2 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 4 months of the EPA outcome notification.
Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.
Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.
The apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of if pass they need to re-sit or re-take one or more assessment methods, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.
| Roles | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Apprentice |
As a minimum, the apprentice should:
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Employer |
As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:
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EPAO |
As a minimum, the EPAO must:
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Independent assessor |
As a minimum, an independent assessor must:
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Training provider |
As a minimum, the training provider must:
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The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Special considerations
The EPAO must have special consideration arrangements for the EPA.
This should include:
Special considerations must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.
Internal quality assurance refers to the strategies, policies and procedures that an EPAO must have in place to ensure valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions.
EPAOs for this EPA must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities table.
They must also appoint independent assessors who:
Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:
This apprenticeship is not aligned to professional recognition.
| Knowledge | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
K1
Health and safety regulations, standards and guidance relevant to the occupation and the individual's responsibilities. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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K2
Steeplejack regulatory and legislative requirements and their impact on individual’s responsibilities. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K3
Principles of site induction and toolbox talks. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K4
Safe systems of work, risk assessment and method statements: interpretation and application of control measures. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K5
Personal protective equipment (PPE): types and tethering techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K6
Steeplejack height access techniques: laddering, motorised access equipment, and bosun seats. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K7
BS7985 steeplejack rope access techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K8
Anchors for steeplejacking: types, selection, testing, removable and re-usable fixings. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K9
Anchor for steeplejacking: fixing and removal techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K10
Types and uses of steeplejack scaffolding. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K11
Methods of erecting and dismantling steeplejacking scaffolding. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K12
The range of structure types and characteristic uses, their common methods of construction and typical defects, and the impact that steeple jacking operations might have on building safety. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K13
The types, uses and safeguards of steeplejacking height access equipment: ladders, bosun seats, motorised access. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K14
Common hand and power tools used in routine steeplejacking tasks including safeguarding and tethering techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K15
Equipment inspection methods: pre-use and post use checks, visual and functional checks. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
K16
Techniques to move and handle steeplejack materials, components and equipment manually and with lifting equipment. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K17
Height access equipment storage techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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K18
Routine maintenance techniques applied to built structures at height using steeplejack access methods. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K19
Principles of inspecting buildings and built structures. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K20
Methods of quality assuring own work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K21
The importance of customer service to their organisation, how to provide feedback to ensure customers are informed. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K22
Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information from documentation: drawings, specifications and maintenance plans. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
K23
Environmental regulations and requirements: Environmental Protection Act, safe disposal of waste, minimising waste, re-use and re-cycle, waste contractors permit, energy efficiency, and contribution to net zero outcomes. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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K24
Team working techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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K25
Principles of equity, diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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K26
Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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K27
Verbal communication techniques and steeplejack terminology. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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K28
The processes and importance of escalating issues beyond their level of competence and authority. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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K29
Employment types - self-employed and employed, small business start up principles, tax responsibilities, roles and responsibilities. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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K30
Written communication techniques: paper based and digital. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
| Skill | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
|
S1
Comply with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S2
Comply with safe systems of work and apply control measures. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S3
Organise, maintain and reinstate the work area to safeguard themselves and others, including the use of signage and barriers. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S4
Comply with environmental regulations and procedures. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S5
Select and use PPE and PPE tethering techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S6
Comply with industry regulatory and legislative requirements and standards. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
|
S7
Interpret information from documentation for example, drawings, specifications and maintenance plans. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
|
S8
Escalates issues beyond their level of competence and authority. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S9
Select and use tools and equipment for steeplejacking maintenance tasks, including applying safeguards and tethers. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S10
Select working at height equipment for accessing height including ladders, motorised access equipment, bosun seats and apply safeguards. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S11
Inspect working at height equipment, including pre-use and post-use checks, visual and functional checks. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S12
Move and handle steeplejacking material, components and equipment using manual and mechanical techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S13
Select, fix, and test steeplejack anchors. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S14
Remove steeplejack anchors. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S15
Use steeplejacking equipment and techniques to access work at height, including, laddering, motorised access, bosun seats. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S16
Access height using BS7985 rope access techniques. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S17
Store working at height equipment. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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S18
Work collaboratively to erect and dismantle steeplejack scaffolding. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S19
Conduct routine inspections to structures at height using steeple jacking height access techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S20
Conduct routine maintenance to structures at height using steeple jack height access techniques. For example, cleaning gutters and minor repairs. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S21
Record and report information. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S22
Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers, colleagues, and managers. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S23
Quality assure own work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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S24
Apply team working techniques. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
| Behaviour | Assessment methods |
|---|---|
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B1
Puts health safety and wellbeing first. Back to Grading |
Practical assessment with questions |
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B2
Take ownership of given work. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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B3
Team-focused to meet work goals. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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B4
Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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B5
Considers the environment and sustainability. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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B6
Supports equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
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B7
Adapt to new and changing situations. Back to Grading |
Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and Safety
K1 S1 S3 B1 |
Health and safety regulations, standards and guidance relevant to the occupation and the individual's responsibilities. (K1) |
Comply with health and safety regulations, standards and guidance. (S1) Organise, maintain and reinstate the work area to safeguard themselves and others, including the use of signage and barriers. (S3) |
Puts health safety and wellbeing first. (B1) |
|
Steeplejack equipment
K13 K15 K17 S10 S11 S17 |
The types, uses and safeguards of steeplejacking height access equipment: ladders, bosun seats, motorised access. (K13) Equipment inspection methods: pre-use and post use checks, visual and functional checks. (K15) Height access equipment storage techniques. (K17) |
Select working at height equipment for accessing height including ladders, motorised access equipment, bosun seats and apply safeguards. (S10) Inspect working at height equipment, including pre-use and post-use checks, visual and functional checks. (S11) Store working at height equipment. (S17) |
None |
|
Steeplejack access techniques
K2 K6 K7 K8 K9 S6 S13 S14 S15 S16 |
Steeplejack regulatory and legislative requirements and their impact on individual’s responsibilities. (K2) Steeplejack height access techniques: laddering, motorised access equipment, and bosun seats. (K6) BS7985 steeplejack rope access techniques. (K7) Anchors for steeplejacking: types, selection, testing, removable and re-usable fixings. (K8) Anchor for steeplejacking: fixing and removal techniques. (K9) |
Comply with industry regulatory and legislative requirements and standards. (S6) Select, fix, and test steeplejack anchors. (S13) Remove steeplejack anchors. (S14) Use steeplejacking equipment and techniques to access work at height, including, laddering, motorised access, bosun seats. (S15) Access height using BS7985 rope access techniques. (S16) |
None |
| KSBS GROUPED BY THEME | Knowledge | Skills | Behaviour |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Health and Safety
K3 K4 K5 K16 S2 S5 S12 |
Principles of site induction and toolbox talks. (K3) Safe systems of work, risk assessment and method statements: interpretation and application of control measures. (K4) Personal protective equipment (PPE): types and tethering techniques. (K5) Techniques to move and handle steeplejack materials, components and equipment manually and with lifting equipment. (K16) |
Comply with safe systems of work and apply control measures. (S2) Select and use PPE and PPE tethering techniques. (S5) Move and handle steeplejacking material, components and equipment using manual and mechanical techniques. (S12) |
None |
|
Steeplejack maintenance and inspection techniques
K12 K18 K19 K28 S8 S19 S20 B7 |
The range of structure types and characteristic uses, their common methods of construction and typical defects, and the impact that steeple jacking operations might have on building safety. (K12) Routine maintenance techniques applied to built structures at height using steeplejack access methods. (K18) Principles of inspecting buildings and built structures. (K19) The processes and importance of escalating issues beyond their level of competence and authority. (K28) |
Escalates issues beyond their level of competence and authority. (S8) Conduct routine inspections to structures at height using steeple jacking height access techniques. (S19) Conduct routine maintenance to structures at height using steeple jack height access techniques. For example, cleaning gutters and minor repairs. (S20) |
Adapt to new and changing situations. (B7) |
|
Steeplejack scaffolding
K10 K11 S18 |
Types and uses of steeplejack scaffolding. (K10) Methods of erecting and dismantling steeplejacking scaffolding. (K11) |
Work collaboratively to erect and dismantle steeplejack scaffolding. (S18) |
None |
|
Hand and power tools
K14 S9 |
Common hand and power tools used in routine steeplejacking tasks including safeguarding and tethering techniques. (K14) |
Select and use tools and equipment for steeplejacking maintenance tasks, including applying safeguards and tethers. (S9) |
None |
|
Quality assurance
K20 S23 B2 |
Methods of quality assuring own work. (K20) |
Quality assure own work. (S23) |
Take ownership of given work. (B2) |
|
Documentation and task recording
K22 K30 S7 S21 |
Methods of interpreting and extracting relevant information from documentation: drawings, specifications and maintenance plans. (K22) Written communication techniques: paper based and digital. (K30) |
Interpret information from documentation for example, drawings, specifications and maintenance plans. (S7) Record and report information. (S21) |
None |
|
Sustainability and the environment
K23 S4 B5 |
Environmental regulations and requirements: Environmental Protection Act, safe disposal of waste, minimising waste, re-use and re-cycle, waste contractors permit, energy efficiency, and contribution to net zero outcomes. (K23) |
Comply with environmental regulations and procedures. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal. (S4) |
Considers the environment and sustainability. (B5) |
|
Communication, teamwork and business
K21 K24 K25 K27 K29 S22 S24 B3 B6 |
The importance of customer service to their organisation, how to provide feedback to ensure customers are informed. (K21) Team working techniques. (K24) Principles of equity, diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. (K25) Verbal communication techniques and steeplejack terminology. (K27) Employment types - self-employed and employed, small business start up principles, tax responsibilities, roles and responsibilities. (K29) |
Communicate with others verbally for example, internal and external customers, colleagues, and managers. (S22) Apply team working techniques. (S24) |
Team-focused to meet work goals. (B3) Supports equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. (B6) |
|
EDI, wellbeing and CPD
K26 B4 |
Well-being: mental and physical health considerations in self and others and how to access support. (K26) |
None |
Committed to continued professional development (CPD) to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice. (B4) |
| Version | Change detail | Earliest start date | Latest start date | Latest end date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | Approved for delivery | 16/08/2024 | Not set | Not set |
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