Banham Academy has opened the first end point assessment centre in the UK for the Level 3 Fire, Emergency and Security Systems Apprenticeship Standard, working with the National Electrotechnical Training (NET), the end point assessment awarding body.
Banham Academy Director, Kevin Faulkner says: “I am thrilled that Banham Academy has achieved the first ever End Point Assessment Centre in the UK, it is a huge accomplishment for us at the academy and we are extremely proud. We have seen the quality of apprenticeships grow over the last 5 years since launching the Banham Academy, with now having over 50 apprentices from over 20 employers across the country sending their apprentices to the Banham Academy for the necessary skills and training required for our industry. We are now finally able to see the apprentices complete their learning journey and go back into the workplace having had their knowledge, skills and behaviours thoroughly tested through this end point assessment, a pioneering moment for our industry.”
The assessment, over two days, involves a formal measurement via two practical skills tests; a theory test and a professional discussion. Once completed, the apprentice will be able to apply for membership of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, as an Engineering Technician (EngTech). This demonstrates to employers and clients that the person has had their competence independently assessed and their credentials verified. Also, the apprentice will have accredited prior learning for a gold card under the Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS).
Carolyn Mason, Chief Executive of National Electrotechnical Training, said: “This has been a very challenging and complex End Point Assessment and Banham Academy have really stepped up on behalf of the industry, providing both a facility and an assessor to enable the assessment to be delivered. We’re delighted to see the first candidates successfully complete and look forward to many more.”
Banham based in south west London ran two pilots using technicians from EFT Systems in Southport, to check the requirements for the end point assessment. The centre is now live and the first apprentices to receive certification have come from Kings Security Systems.
Pat Allen, Chair of Trailblazer Employer Group said: “It has been a long but very worthwhile journey now that we have an apprenticeship written by employers to meet their requirements for the workforce of the future. This standard encompasses a high level of comprehensive training not seen before in the fire and security sector. It is great that Banham Academy have embraced the vision and fitting that they have opened the first end point assessment centre.”
