The Institute of Apprenticeships and Technical Education have published the seven flexibilities that will be retained as options to use beyond January and they are:
- Observations taking place in simulated environments
- Remote delivery of assessment (including invigilation)
- Pauses being allowed between assessment methods during end-point assessment period
- Assessments taking place outside of usual venues
- Delivery of assessment methods in any order (when a specified order is in the assessment plan)
- Exams/tests being online instead of on paper (where originally specified as paper based only)
- Gateway sign off being done remotely (where originally specified as having to be face to face)
The three to be switched off on 31 December are:
- Changes being made to who sits on the EPA interview/discussion panel (when someone in addition to the independent assessor is specified)
To note: During the Covid-19 period, it wasn’t always possible to have an employer sit on a panel as many were furloughed or busy elsewhere. As the economy returns to normal, the original assessment plan can now be delivered, helping to protect quality for apprentices, maintain validity and improve learning for future apprentices.
- Allowing other suitable evidence of achievements being used in replacement of functional skills qualifications at gateway (other mandated qualifications are covered under temporary discretions)
To note: This is no longer needed because the mandated qualifications should become available and achievable as restrictions are relaxed and training providers reopen.
- Extension to the length of the end-point assessment period (where specified)
To note: Decision made because it disadvantages apprentices to have a long wait for their EPA after passing through gateway.
The full announcement can be read at the following link – New framework explains how apprenticeship flexibilities will work in long-term / Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education
