The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) has faced criticism for implementing changes to apprenticeship assessment rules without proper consultation. These reforms, notably altering the end-point assessment plan guidance, remove the previous requirement to assess every knowledge, skill, and behavior involved. Additionally, there was confusion regarding the number of assessment methods required, with the initial impression being a shift from a minimum of two to a maximum of two methods. This move caused frustration among EPAOs and stakeholders, particularly after assurances from the former skills minister about improving the assessment model. However, the reasons behind the changes and their potential financial and resourcing impacts were not adequately communicated by IfATE. Following concerns raised by EPAOs and industry bodies, IfATE revised the guidance, clarifying that they are not limiting assessment methods but urging trailblazers to justify the need for additional methods for new or reviewed standards. Click here for more.
