Apprenticeship Frameworks and Standards

Frameworks are a suite of qualifications and once all completed then the apprenticeship is complete and the certification can be awarded. There is usually a diploma, a certificate, English and math, along with Employee Rights and Responsibilities and PLTS (practical learning and thinking skills), which are skills acquired and measured. Frameworks will be phased out by 2020 and replaced with the newer employer designed Apprenticeship Standards.

Standards are made up of a period of training (between 12 months to 60 months), where knowledge is acquired, skills developed and practically applied. When the apprentice has reached the required level, they are entered into the gateway for their end-point-assessment. The final assessment is usually made up of professional observation, professional conversation, a synoptic project and often on-line tests. Once the end-point organisation has completed the assessments and tests then the award will be given. English and math will also be required.

Both of these require the apprentice to be employed and the teaching may be completed on the employer premises or off-site, depending on the apprenticeship requirements and employer preference.