There’s a lot of talk in the education sector about the role of the end-point assessor at the moment – including about how it’s such a great opportunity for assessors and trainers, as well as those looking to work in education – but why exactly is this?
Here at Protocol we make it our business to understand the changes across the sector – especially when they affect opportunities for our candidates. We’ve done our research, supported our candidates with access to training and development, and along the way we’ve learned a lot about exactly why the role of the end-point assessor is such an exciting development in the sector.
Here are our top 5 reasons why becoming an end-point assessor is such a great move for those looking to work in education!
1. There’s a high demand – and you’ll be supported with training
Due to the change in apprenticeship standards, there’s currently a large deficit between the number of vacancies and the number of end-point assessors (EPAs) – so the people with the right skills are in high demand!
Fortunately for aspiring EPAs, this means that the employers are offering generous support packages, including full support with training and qualifications; so it’s a great opportunity to learn on the job and get qualified.
2. End-Point Assessors are paid more
End-point assessor vacancies are currently being advertised at more than double the day rate of standard assessor and trainer roles – so if you like the sound of working less hours, for more pay, it’s a great option!
Unlike full time assessors, end-point assessors can expect to work in the region of 25 days a year – although this is expected to increase in line with the growth in the sector – earning a day rate of up to £300 (depending on their specialism).
3. You can work flexibly around other commitments
Have prior commitments? Prefer to have multiple income streams? Want to spend more time with your family? With end-point assessors often only needing to commit to the equivalent of 2 days a month, it’s a great option for those looking to top up their income, or those who can’t or don’t want to work full time. We think it’s a great addition to the gig economy – why should education professionals miss out on flexible working?
4. The industry is still growing
While the demand for end-point assessors is already high, the area is only expected to grow; the government have set a target for 3 million new apprentices to start by the end of parliament, and all 3 million of these apprentices need to be independently graded by an end-point assessor before they can receive their certification.
This means that the industry needs an influx of new end-point assessors to cope with all these apprentices! It’s expected that 2019 will be the crunch point, with a rapid growth in opportunities – so preparing now is key if you want to take advantage.
5. You’ll be at the forefront of education reform
Right across the education sector, there are radical changes taking place – from huge developments in the funding system, fundamental changes to the provider-employer relationship, and even brand new structures and organisations that have never existed before. These widespread reforms mean it’s an exciting time to be involved in delivering apprenticeships!
Apprenticeship frameworks have now been replaced by standards, which are designed by employers rather than awarding bodies. This has the potential to improve apprenticeships exponentially, as the learning and assessing focuses on how competent apprentices are to do the job they are training for, not just pass exams. This is key to the continued growth of apprenticeships, and will further cement them as a truly alternative route to a degree or other professional qualification.
Sound like the role for you?
If becoming an end-point assessor sounds like it’s for you – then we’re here to help.
Protocol’s specialist Skills & Training Team work with end-point assessment organisations and training providers across the UK, and we can help support you in finding your next role.
To find out about our current EPA vacancies, have a look at our job search.
To learn more about the requirements of end-point assessing, and where you could be working, check out our breakdown of the role.
To be notified of future vacancies, as well as access exclusive training and resources through our CPD portal Learning Zone, simply register with us today – it’s free!
This article was written by Alessandra Metcalf, Marketing Co-ordinator at Protocol.
