A welcome shift from Aug dates, DWP have moved to Sept workshops. Those involved in the previous trailblazer groups are invited to 3 planned workshops, where as a group they can work together with training providers and assessment organisations to revise the apprenticeship assessment plan. The end point assessment reforms that Skills England have been working on (Changes to apprenticeship assessment: 2025 to 2026 - GOV.UK) will form the purpose of the meetings. Those who are also interested in using or delivering this standard should let Andy Scott at Skills England know.
1st Workshop was Wednesday 8th September 1pm – 2.30pm – Of the eight attendees six were end point assessment organisations. Andy Scott provided an overview of the assessment reforms and new principles, then delivered a draft six-point plan to reflect and review ahead of the following 2nd workshop meeting.
2nd Workshop: Wednesday 23rd September 1pm – 2pm - Group will convene to discuss sector feedback. Skills England will take on board feedback and then produce a 2nd draft, which will be emailed shortly after the meeting.
3rd Workshop: Wednesday 30th September 1pm – 2pm - Chance for the group to discuss feedback on 2nd draft and if required, a 3rd draft will be produced.
Skills England first workshop for assessment of Express delivery operative
In the new AAP assessment plan not every unit has to be assessed.
Headers very generic – key safety at door, dog attack does not make the headlines, nor does brand or context of sector.
Chaired by Andy Scott on virtual Tuesday 8th Sept - Apologies from employers - Army and Royal Mail - Eight attendees, Robert Ridgwell from FedEx and Carl Lomas IOC - Otherwise all assessment organisations, Highfield, 3 from VTCT including Paul Spink, Rosie Gould from ELS EPAO.
Andy explained the changes ahead. One mandated assessment explained, Behaviours move to employers to verify. Only Knowledge and Skills in the plan. Assessment in right place at right time. Increasing accessibility for employers. The group of experts - A move from just employers to expand input including training providers and assessment bodies. Time line set to be by end of year. A draft new assessment plan to be provided at end of this session, then two future meetings to review. Draft goes in front of Skills England ASP panel and then in front of funding panel at DWP. There will be a six-month lead time to publication on Skills England web.
In the new plan - Assessment outcomes will group K&S units, but note every unit does not have to be assessed. Every K&S must be taught, but not every K&S will be assessed. Sampling will take place in the assessment strategies. The key danger at door, dog attack does not get a mention in the assessment headlines.
Any professional recognition, including L2 IOC membership, will be mentioned at end of assessment plan.
Draft plan for ST0103
6 assessment outcomes (AO)s very generic – headline and brief detail
Stars map English and math – portfolio suggested as best assessment by employers.
AO1: Delivery and collection operations - The apprentice delivers and collects goods in accordance with organisational procedures, service commitments, delivery schedules and contractual requirements. They use operational systems to verify activities, monitor progress and ensure goods are transferred safely to the correct recipient.
AO2: Route planning and journey management - The apprentice plans, monitors and adapts delivery and collection routes using geographical knowledge, maps, postcodes and navigation tools. They locate destinations accurately, manage journey progress and respond effectively to changing operational circumstances.
AO3: Goods handling and equipment operations - The apprentice handles, moves, loads and unloads goods safely using appropriate equipment and procedures. They apply manual handling principles, interpret packaging requirements, complete equipment checks and maintain the condition of goods throughout transportation.
AO4: Customer and commercial service delivery - The apprentice delivers customer-focused service in line with organisational standards and customer expectations. They respond to customer needs, support operational efficiency and identify opportunities to improve service quality and delivery performance.
AO5: Safety, security and regulatory compliance - The apprentice applies legal, regulatory and organisational requirements to maintain safe, secure and compliant delivery operations. They manage risks, protect people, goods and information, and comply with relevant safety and security requirements.
AO6: Professional, inclusive and sustainable working practices - The apprentice contributes to an inclusive, professional and sustainable workplace. They promote equality, diversity and inclusion, minimise environmental impact, maintain their wellbeing and engage in continuous professional development.
Image by harshahars from Pixabay
