The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) has published its new framework for the external quality assurance (EQA) of end-point assessment (EPA).

The framework sets out what good practice in EPA looks like, and what EQA providers should look out for. 

The aim is to improve clarity and consistency across EPA and EQA providers in the country and ensure that each assessment is carried out and quality assured to the same standard. 

• Background: Milton: Let’s not ‘turn off the tap’ on apprenticeships

• Inspiring apprentices: ‘The apprenticeship has exceeded my expectations’

• Quick read: Milton: ‘FE minister is the best job in government’

Every apprentice must pass an EPA before completing their apprenticeship to prove they have the skills, knowledge and behaviours to succeed in the role. 

The new framework will outline the importance of occupational expertise at assessment stage, to ensure that it can be carried out across a range of sectors and meet the needs of employers.

Mark Dawe, chief executive of the Association of Employment and Learning Providers (AELP), said that the new framework should lower the cost of EQA and lead to less confusion. 

“A real positive is to see the core principles of assessment reflected - valid, reliable and manageable. AELP looks forward to working with the organisations involved on implementing a smooth transition,” he said.