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Senior compliance and risk specialist

Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST0363
  3. Version: 1.1
  4. Level: 6
  5. Degree: non-degree qualification
  6. Typical duration to gateway: 36 months
  7. Typical EPA period: 5 months
  8. Maximum funding: £23000
  9. Route: Legal, finance and accounting
  10. Date updated: 06/02/2023
  11. Approved for delivery: 19 September 2016
  12. Lars code: 144
  13. EQA provider: Ofqual
Print apprenticeship summary

Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

To ensure that organisations' operations comply with relevant legislation, regulation and policies through reviewing and implementing policies and procedures.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in a range of organisations that are required to meet compliance and risk conditions set out in legislation. This could include the requirement of regulators in areas such as financial crime and operational risk.

To meet these requirements many organisations will have dedicated risk and compliance departments that are experts in the legislation and regulative requirements. They provide proactive support and guidance to internal business areas to ensure that the organisation meets the requirements, balanced against achieving appropriate customer outcomes. In some organisations, this expertise may be embedded in the business areas themselves. Specialists may work in small, medium or large firms and increasingly may be working from home or with some access to office facilities.

Risk and compliance specialists operate in many sectors where regulation and legislation is evident, including banking and finance, gambling and gaming, healthcare, utilities and as consultants.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide high quality input and advice to the business in their specialist area(s) of expertise. The specialist areas may include, risk, financial crime, compliance, modelling and analysing data, customer due diligence, cyber security, governance, anti-money laundering, Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) and climate risk.

A senior compliance and risk specialist manages complex problems, implements any new legal and regulatory requirement and works with senior people in the organisation.

As working from home becomes more common, proficiency in digital communications is a core requirement to communicate with the business and other members of the team.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with senior personnel in their organisation and others who engage in risk-based activities. They are required to manage differing views and influence others to achieve collaborative solutions including regulators/ legislative experts/ policy staff.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for planning and developing courses of action to maintain risk and compliance in line with organisational risk appetite and regulatory requirements. They will also initiate and lead tasks and processes, taking responsibility, where relevant, for the work and roles of others and the allocation of resources.

There will be a need to exercise broad autonomy and judgement adhering to ethical standards and applying technical expertise whilst applying deep underpinning knowledge of risk and compliance frameworks, policies, and procedures. This knowledge may cover compliance or risk functions or be a blend of both depending on the organisation.

The employee in this area of work has the capability to influence senior members of the organisation as there can often be differing views on the appropriate action to take. Employees will need to possess excellent communication and negotiation skills as well as resilience and persistence when ensuring policy and plans are implemented to conclusion.

Typical job titles include:

Compliance manager Credit monitoring manager Financial crime manager Operational risk manager Risk & controls manager Senior compliance specialist Senior risk specialist

Duties

  • Duty 1 Safeguard the organisation from risks relevant to your role, for example, money laundering, terrorist financing risk, conduct risk, operational risk, climate change risk by ensuring monitoring structures and processes under your control are effective.
  • Duty 2 Use relevant frameworks to assess, manage and mitigate risks relevant to your area of expertise, adhering to organisational policies and procedures.
  • Duty 3 Analyse a wide range of data, including observations and stakeholder interviews to understand risks relative to your role and form recommendations for change.
  • Duty 4 Provide specialist compliance and risk advice and consultancy to leaders on risk, financial crime, compliance, or modelling and analysing data.
  • Duty 5 Build relationships and influence with stakeholders to support and embed a risk-based culture, improve compliance and reduce risk factors.
  • Duty 6 Maintain an understanding of up to date legal and regulatory changes relevant to your area, taking responsibility for ensuring any changes are communicated effectively and embedded.
  • Duty 7 Provide proactive support, guidance and challenge to business areas to ensure that the organisation meets legal and regulatory obligations balanced against achieving appropriate customer outcomes.
  • Duty 8 Design and implement risk and/or compliance activity relevant to your area to support the organisation’s goals and legal and regulatory requirements, for example, Financial Conduct Authority, Prudential Regulation Authority.
  • Duty 9 Collaborate across your organisation to ensure consistent, joined up approaches to policies and processes relevant to your role.
  • Duty 10 Share your knowledge and expertise with others to support the development of knowledge and skills in your team or department.
  • Duty 11 Develop and deliver new ways of working which strengthen and promote regulatory compliance and continuous improvement.
  • Duty 12 Create and maintain documentation, including reporting requirements, following records management process and audit requirements to evidence legal and regulatory compliance relative to your role.
  • Duty 13 Adapt to technological advancements and changes which impact the compliance and risk management landscape.

Apprenticeship summary

ST0363, senior compliance and risk specialist level 6

This is a summary of the key things that you – the apprentice and your employer need to know about your end-point assessment (EPA). You and your employer should read the EPA plan for the full details. It has information on assessment method requirements, roles and responsibilities, and re-sits and re-takes.

What is an end-point assessment and why it happens

An EPA is an assessment at the end of your apprenticeship. It will assess you against the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) in the occupational standard. Your training will cover the KSBs. The EPA is your opportunity to show an independent assessor how well you can carry out the occupation you have been trained for.

Your employer will choose an end-point assessment organisation (EPAO) to deliver the EPA. Your employer and training provider should tell you what to expect and how to prepare for your EPA.

The length of the training for this apprenticeship is typically 36 months. The EPA period is typically 5 months.

The overall grades available for this apprenticeship are:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

When you pass the EPA, you will be awarded your apprenticeship certificate.

EPA gateway

The EPA gateway is when the EPAO checks and confirms that you have met any requirements required before you start the EPA. You will only enter the gateway when your employer says you are ready.

The gateway requirements for your EPA are:

  • achieved English and mathematics qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules
  • for the professional discussion, you must submit a portfolio of evidence

  • for the project report, presentation and questions, the project's title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO and a project summary submitted

  • passed any other qualifications listed in the occupational standard

For the senior compliance and risk specialist, the qualification required is:

CISI Diploma in Investment Compliance

IRM International Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management

IRM International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management

IRM International Diploma in Risk Management

CBI Certificate in Climate Risk

ICA International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance

ICA International Diploma in Financial Crime Prevention

ICA International Diploma in Anti Money Laundering

ICA International Diploma in Managing Sanctions Risk

CICM Level 5 Diploma in Credit and Collections MCICM (Grad)



Assessment methods


Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

You will have a professional professional discussion with an independent assessor. It will last 90 minutes. They will ask you at least 10 questions. The questions will be about certain aspects of your occupation. You need to compile a portfolio of evidence before the EPA gateway. You can use it to help answer the questions.


Project with report and Presentation with questions

You will complete a project and write a report. The title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO at the gateway. The report should be a maximum of 3500 words (with a 10% tolerance).

You need to prepare and give a presentation to an independent assessor. Your presentation slides and any supporting materials should be submitted at the same time as the project output. The presentation with questions will last at least 60 minutes. The independent assessor will ask at least 8 questions about the project and presentation.

The EPAO will confirm where and when each assessment method will take place.

Who to contact for help or more information

You should speak to your employer if you have a query that relates to your job.

You should speak to your training provider if you have any questions about your training or EPA before it starts.

You should receive detailed information and support from the EPAO before the EPA starts. You should speak to them if you have any questions about your EPA once it has started.


Reasonable adjustments

If you have a disability, a physical or mental health condition or other special considerations, you may be able to have a reasonable adjustment that takes this into account. You should speak to your employer, training provider and EPAO and ask them what support you can get. The EPAO will decide if an adjustment is appropriate.


Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) for full membership of the Institute and MCSI designatory letters.

Please contact the professional body for more details.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Institute of Risk Management for recognition as a Certificate Member (IRMCert) when completing the Certificate qualifications and Graduate Member (GradIRM) when completing the Diploma.

Please contact the professional body for more details.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Banker Institute for recognition as a Certificated Member (CCBI) and able to use the professional designation ‘CRP’ (Climate Risk Professional).

Please contact the professional body for more details.

This apprenticeship aligns with The International Compliance Association for access to full professional membership of the ICA and permits the use of the MICA designatory letters.

Please contact the professional body for more details.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Institute of Credit Management for Graduate Membership MCICM(Grad).

Please contact the professional body for more details.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in a range of organisations that are required to meet compliance and risk conditions set out in legislation. This could include the requirement of regulators in areas such as financial crime and operational risk.

To meet these requirements many organisations will have dedicated risk and compliance departments that are experts in the legislation and regulative requirements. They provide proactive support and guidance to internal business areas to ensure that the organisation meets the requirements, balanced against achieving appropriate customer outcomes. In some organisations, this expertise may be embedded in the business areas themselves. Specialists may work in small, medium or large firms and increasingly may be working from home or with some access to office facilities.

Risk and compliance specialists operate in many sectors where regulation and legislation is evident, including banking and finance, gambling and gaming, healthcare, utilities and as consultants.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide high quality input and advice to the business in their specialist area(s) of expertise. The specialist areas may include, risk, financial crime, compliance, modelling and analysing data, customer due diligence, cyber security, governance, anti-money laundering, Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) and climate risk.

A senior compliance and risk specialist manages complex problems, implements any new legal and regulatory requirement and works with senior people in the organisation.

As working from home becomes more common, proficiency in digital communications is a core requirement to communicate with the business and other members of the team.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with senior personnel in their organisation and others who engage in risk-based activities. They are required to manage differing views and influence others to achieve collaborative solutions including regulators/ legislative experts/ policy staff.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for planning and developing courses of action to maintain risk and compliance in line with organisational risk appetite and regulatory requirements. They will also initiate and lead tasks and processes, taking responsibility, where relevant, for the work and roles of others and the allocation of resources.

There will be a need to exercise broad autonomy and judgement adhering to ethical standards and applying technical expertise whilst applying deep underpinning knowledge of risk and compliance frameworks, policies, and procedures. This knowledge may cover compliance or risk functions or be a blend of both depending on the organisation.

The employee in this area of work has the capability to influence senior members of the organisation as there can often be differing views on the appropriate action to take. Employees will need to possess excellent communication and negotiation skills as well as resilience and persistence when ensuring policy and plans are implemented to conclusion.

Typical job titles include:

Compliance manager Credit monitoring manager Financial crime manager Operational risk manager Risk & controls manager Senior compliance specialist Senior risk specialist

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Safeguard the organisation from risks relevant to your role, for example, money laundering, terrorist financing risk, conduct risk, operational risk, climate change risk by ensuring monitoring structures and processes under your control are effective.

K6 K9 K11 K14 K15 K17 K19

S8 S14 S19

B1

Duty 2 Use relevant frameworks to assess, manage and mitigate risks relevant to your area of expertise, adhering to organisational policies and procedures.

K1 K4 K11 K15 K17

S3 S19

B1 B3

Duty 3 Analyse a wide range of data, including observations and stakeholder interviews to understand risks relative to your role and form recommendations for change.

K5 K6 K9 K12

S1 S2 S4 S5 S13

B3

Duty 4 Provide specialist compliance and risk advice and consultancy to leaders on risk, financial crime, compliance, or modelling and analysing data.

K4 K7 K8 K11 K13 K14 K17

S1 S2 S5 S6 S7 S9 S13 S15

B1 B4 B5

Duty 5 Build relationships and influence with stakeholders to support and embed a risk-based culture, improve compliance and reduce risk factors.

K8 K9 K12 K13

S9 S10 S11 S12 S13 S16

B4 B5 B7

Duty 6 Maintain an understanding of up to date legal and regulatory changes relevant to your area, taking responsibility for ensuring any changes are communicated effectively and embedded.

K1 K2 K3 K5 K6 K10 K11 K14 K15 K17 K18 K20

S3 S4 S8 S9 S16

B1

Duty 7 Provide proactive support, guidance and challenge to business areas to ensure that the organisation meets legal and regulatory obligations balanced against achieving appropriate customer outcomes.

K8 K12 K13 K15

S1 S2 S5 S6 S7 S9 S10 S11 S12 S14

B1 B4 B5

Duty 8 Design and implement risk and/or compliance activity relevant to your area to support the organisation’s goals and legal and regulatory requirements, for example, Financial Conduct Authority, Prudential Regulation Authority.

K6 K7 K10 K14 K15 K20

S1 S2 S5 S13 S14 S15 S18

B5 B6

Duty 9 Collaborate across your organisation to ensure consistent, joined up approaches to policies and processes relevant to your role.

K12 K13 K14 K15

S2 S6 S7 S10 S11 S12 S14 S15 S16

B2 B7

Duty 10 Share your knowledge and expertise with others to support the development of knowledge and skills in your team or department.

K8 K12 K13 K15

S6 S7 S10 S11 S13 S14 S15 S16

B2 B5 B6 B7

Duty 11 Develop and deliver new ways of working which strengthen and promote regulatory compliance and continuous improvement.

K7 K10 K12 K13 K15 K16 K20

S1 S2 S6 S7 S13 S14 S15 S17

B2 B5 B6

Duty 12 Create and maintain documentation, including reporting requirements, following records management process and audit requirements to evidence legal and regulatory compliance relative to your role.

S1 S8 S13 S14 S15 S17

B2 B5 B6

Duty 13 Adapt to technological advancements and changes which impact the compliance and risk management landscape.

K9 K10 K16 K18

S1 S5 S14 S15 S17 S18 S19

B2 B5 B6


KSBs

Knowledge

K1: The features and principles of the legal and regulatory framework in their industry. Back to Duty

K2: The role of regulators in their industry, their objectives and primary functions. Back to Duty

K3: The inter-relationships between different regulators and their organisation. Back to Duty

K4: The implications of non-compliance on the organisation. Back to Duty

K5: The history of the industry and the role their organisation plays in the wellbeing of society. Back to Duty

K6: Factors that can change risk appetite in an organisation including competitor activity, political, social and environmental factors and how these can be mitigated. Back to Duty

K7: Professional standards and best practice and how these are applied. Back to Duty

K8: The role of their team or department, the different teams and organisations they work with and how they support them. Back to Duty

K9: Approaches to identify customer segments and needs. Back to Duty

K10: The policies and processes in place to ensure fair customer outcomes. Back to Duty

K11: Financial and compliance risks within the organisation’s products and services available to customers. Back to Duty

K12: The principles of excellent stakeholder management relative to their role. Back to Duty

K13: The principles of communication techniques such as, active listening, team communications, business storytelling, negotiation techniques, conflict management and, diversity, equality and inclusivity considerations. Back to Duty

K14: The features and principles of strategic planning relative to their role. Back to Duty

K15: Continuous improvement principles and techniques relative to their role. Back to Duty

K16: The systems, tools and processes required in the role such as the impact of technology on risk management, cyber security, AI, blockchain, digital tools. Back to Duty

K17: Internal and external audit requirements and the responsibilities of the auditor and auditee. Back to Duty

K18: The impact of data protection legislation and the processes for sharing and storing information safely and securely including risks to data from cybercrime. Back to Duty

K19: The nature and importance of key climate, environmental and emerging sustainability risks, relative to compliance and risk, and how these may be managed. Back to Duty

K20: The extent to which sustainable finance is incorporated in risk and compliance frameworks and the role of key stakeholders. Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Think laterally, take a wide perspective of the issue at hand, consider aspects of a problem to formulate an operational or strategic plan. Back to Duty

S2: Build reports to suit the requirement of the audience, for example departmental plans, key performance indicators (KPIs) and project reports. Back to Duty

S3: Plan and organise own work to meet legal, regulatory, organisational deadlines. Back to Duty

S4: Analyse and interpret information to assess whether it meets legal, regulatory, process or policy requirements. Back to Duty

S5: Analyse information to identify key issues, draw conclusions and make recommendations. Back to Duty

S6: Demonstrate different communication methods and adapt communication style to their audience, being clear on purpose of communication and outputs required, for example; verbal, written, virtual communication, presentations. Back to Duty

S7: Demonstrate different communication styles such as, active listening, team communications, business storytelling, negotiation techniques, conflict management, cross-cultural communications, equality and inclusivity considerations. Back to Duty

S8: Maintain documents in line with current regulation and policy. Back to Duty

S9: Challenge and influence managers and colleagues on desired course of action Back to Duty

S10: Build and maintain working relationships with stakeholders, contracting and managing stakeholder expectations. Back to Duty

S11: Build trust with colleagues, collaborating to achieve results. Back to Duty

S12: Manage conflict, demonstrating empathy and a desire to work towards win-win outcomes. Back to Duty

S13: Lead others to achieve desired outcomes. Back to Duty

S14: Apply continuous improvement techniques to deliver improved compliance and risk outcomes for the organisation, for example seek feedback and respond to improve performance. Back to Duty

S15: Develop strategies to implement change. Back to Duty

S16: Network with others in the profession to keep up to date with changes in the industry, best practice and potential opportunities. Back to Duty

S17: Use digital tools for research, analysis, and to present data using visualisation techniques. Back to Duty

S18: Demonstrate technology to others and keeps up to date with developments in IT relative to their role. Back to Duty

S19: Handle data safely and securely and share information in compliance with data protection legislation and organisation’s policy. Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Displays honesty and integrity - truthful in their actions. Shows integrity by doing the right thing, maintains confidentiality and acts with due care and diligence. Back to Duty

B2: Takes ownership of continued professional development, acts as a role model and supports others in their development. Back to Duty

B3: Takes an adaptable, evidence-based approach to decision making in the context of specific situations or environments. Back to Duty

B4: Resilient in challenging, changing environments. Shows emotional intelligence to resolve conflicts when they arise. Back to Duty

B5: Takes responsibility for decisions and procedures implemented. Back to Duty

B6: Displays a growth mindset, learning from failures, spotting opportunities and overcoming challenges. Back to Duty

B7: Collaborates and promotes teamwork across diverse teams; internal, external and across disciplines. Back to Duty


Qualifications

English and Maths

Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.

Other mandatory qualifications

CISI Diploma in Investment Compliance

Level: 6 (non-degree qualification)

Ofqual regulated

IRM International Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management

Level: 5

IRM International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management

Level: 5

IRM International Diploma in Risk Management

Level: 7 (non-degree qualification)

CBI Certificate in Climate Risk

Level: 5

ICA International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance

Level: 6 (non-degree qualification)

ICA International Diploma in Financial Crime Prevention

Level: 6 (non-degree qualification)

ICA International Diploma in Anti Money Laundering

Level: 6 (non-degree qualification)

ICA International Diploma in Managing Sanctions Risk

Level: 6 (non-degree qualification)

CICM Level 5 Diploma in Credit and Collections MCICM (Grad)

Level: 5

Ofqual regulated

Professional recognition

This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:

  • The Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) for full membership of the Institute and MCSI designatory letters.
  • The Institute of Risk Management for recognition as a Certificate Member (IRMCert) when completing the Certificate qualifications and Graduate Member (GradIRM) when completing the Diploma.
  • The Chartered Banker Institute for recognition as a Certificated Member (CCBI) and able to use the professional designation ‘CRP’ (Climate Risk Professional).
  • The International Compliance Association for access to full professional membership of the ICA and permits the use of the MICA designatory letters.
  • The Chartered Institute of Credit Management for Graduate Membership MCICM(Grad).
Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.1

Introduction and overview

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the senior compliance and risk specialist apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.

Senior compliance and risk specialist apprentices, their employers and training providers should read this document.

An approved EPAO must conduct the EPA for this apprenticeship. Employers must select an approved EPAO from the Education and Skills Funding Agency’s Register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO).

A full-time apprentice typically spends 36 months on-programme (this means in training before the gateway) working towards competence as a senior compliance and risk specialist. All apprentices must spend at least 12 months on-programme. All apprentices must complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules.

This EPA has 2 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are:

Assessment method 1 - professional discussion:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 2 - project report, presentation and questions:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

The result from each assessment method is combined to decide the overall apprenticeship grade. The following grades are available for the apprenticeship:

  • fail
  • pass
  • merit
  • distinction

EPA summary table

On-programme (typically 36 months)
The apprentice must complete training to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) of the occupational standard.

The apprentice must complete training towards English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

The apprentice must complete training towards one other qualification listed in the occupational standard.

The qualification required is one from the following:

CISI Diploma in Investment Compliance

IRM International Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management

IRM International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management

IRM International Diploma in Risk Management

CBI Certificate in Climate Risk

ICA International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance

ICA International Diploma in Financial Crime Prevention

ICA International Diploma in Anti Money Laundering

ICA International Diploma in Managing Sanctions Risk

CICM Level 5 Diploma in Credit and Collections MCICM (Grad)

For the professional discussion, the apprentice must compile a portfolio of evidence.

For the report, presentation and questions, the apprentice must complete a project, on programme, in the last 6 months before gateway.

End-point assessment gateway
The employer must be content that the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard.

The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think the apprentice:

  • is working at or above the occupational standard as a senior compliance and risk specialist
  • has the evidence required to pass the gateway and is ready to take the EPA

The apprentice must have passed one of the mandated qualifications listed in the senior compliance and risk specialist occupational standard ST0363.



CISI Diploma in Investment Compliance



IRM International Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management



IRM International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management



IRM International Diploma in Risk Management



CBI Certificate in Climate Risk



ICA International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance



ICA International Diploma in Financial Crime Prevention



ICA International Diploma in Anti Money Laundering



ICA International Diploma in Managing Sanctions Risk



CICM Level 5 Diploma in Credit and Collections MCICM (Grad)

The apprentice must have achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.

For the professional discussion the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence.

For the project report, presentation and questions, the apprentice must submit a portfolio of evidence or work (a project) which has original and strategic impact and a maximum 300 word statement to give context to the evidence submitted so that the EPAO can set the title and scope for the project report. project requirements: The project must be sufficient in scope to ensure it allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs and mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade. The EPAO will decide a suitable project report scope and title from the portfolio of evidence the apprentice has submitted. The employer and apprentice will not be involved in the decision.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.

End-point assessment (typically 5 months)
Grades available for each assessment method:

Professional discussion

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Project report, presentation and questions

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction
Professional recognition


This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) qualification. Successful completion of this qualification will give access to full membership of the Institute and MCSI designatory letters.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Institute of Risk Management qualifications. Successful completion of a qualification would give recognition as a Certified Member (IRMCert) when completing the certificate qualifications and Graduate Member (GradIRM) when completing the diploma.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Banker Institute qualification. An apprentice successfully completing the qualification would be eligible for recognition as a Certified Member (CCBI) and be able to use the professional designation 'CRP' (Climate Risk Professional).

This apprenticeship aligns with The International Compliance Association qualifications. Successful completion of a qualification will give access to full professional membership of the ICA and permit the use of the MICA designatory letters.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Institute of Credit Management qualification. An apprentice successfully completing this qualification would be eligible for Graduate Membership MCICM(Grad).





Re-sits and re-takes



  • Re-take and re-sit grade cap: pass
  • Re-sit timeframe: typically 3 months
  • Re-take timeframe: typically 4 months

Duration of end-point assessment period

The EPA is taken in the EPA period. The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms the gateway requirements have been met and is typically up to 5 months.

The expectation is that the EPAO will confirm the gateway requirements have been met and the EPA starts as quickly as possible.

EPA gateway

The apprentice’s employer must confirm that they think their apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard. The apprentice will then enter the gateway. The employer may take advice from the apprentice's training provider(s), but the employer must make the decision.

The apprentice must meet the gateway requirements before starting their EPA.

These are:

  • achieved English and maths qualifications in line with the apprenticeship funding rules.
  • achieved ONE of the following mandated qualifications:
  • achieved CISI Diploma in Investment Compliance
  • achieved IRM International Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management
  • achieved IRM International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management
  • achieved IRM International Diploma in Risk Management
  • achieved CBI Certificate in Climate Risk
  • achieved ICA International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance
  • achieved ICA International Diploma in Financial Crime Prevention
  • achieved ICA International Diploma in Anti Money Laundering
  • achieved ICA International Diploma in Managing Sanctions Risk
  • achieved CICM Level 5 Diploma in Credit and Collections MCICM (Grad)

Portfolio of evidence requirements:

Professional discussion: Apprentices must compile a portfolio of evidence during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship. It should only contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. It will typically contain 15 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. EPAOs should provide mapping documents for the apprentice to complete prior to submission.

Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested.

Evidence sources may include:

Workplace documentation and records, for example:

  • workplace policies and procedures
  • feedback from line managers or other stakeholders
  • reports, plans, presentations, spreadsheets
  • witness statements
  • annotated images or photographs
  • video clips; the apprentice must be in view and identifiable

This is not a definitive list; other evidence sources can be included.

The portfolio of evidence should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example, witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.

The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the discussion . The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the discussion . They are not required to provide feedback after reviewing the portfolio..

Once the apprentice has submitted the professional discussion portfolio, the EPAO will review the portfolio within 2 weeks. The EPAO will communicate with the apprentice and employer to decide on a date for the professional discussion. Typically any time within the 5 month EPA period.

Project report, presentation and questions: The employer and the apprentice must confirm that the apprentice has completed the work themselves.

Apprentices must compile a project during the on-programme period of the apprenticeship, specifically within the last 6 months prior to gateway. It should contain evidence related to the KSBs that will be assessed by this assessment method. The portfolio of evidence will typically contain evidence of 1-2 projects. Evidence should be mapped against the KSBs. The apprentice should also provide a maximum 300-word context summary outlining the project(s).

Evidence may be used to demonstrate more than one KSB; a qualitative as opposed to quantitative approach is suggested. Evidence sources may include:

Workplace documentation /records, for example:

  • workplace policies/procedures, records
  • witness statements/meeting notes
  • feedback from line managers or other stakeholders
  • annotated images or photographs
  • project evidence: reports, project data, project plans, presentations, spreadsheets
  • annotated images or photographs
  • video clips; the apprentice must be in view and identifiable

This is not a definitive list, other evidence sources can be included.

The portfolio should not include reflective accounts or any methods of self-assessment. Any employer contributions should focus on direct observation of performance (for example witness statements) rather than opinions. The evidence provided should be valid and attributable to the apprentice; the portfolio of evidence should contain a statement from the employer and apprentice confirming this.

The EPAO should not assess the portfolio of evidence directly as it underpins the question stage of the presentation. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions. They are not required to provide feedback after reviewing the portfolio.

The project may be based on any of the following:

  • a specific problem
  • a recurring issue
  • an idea or opportunity

The project may also be based on:

  • The need to review and agree a change plan to improve a specific problem in the workplace
  • The continuous improvement review of a current process, service or product to ensure it is fit for purpose and meets the current needs of the business
  • The planning and design of a project that has a strategic relevance and the potential to add value to the organisation

Once the apprentice has submitted the project(s) portfolio, the EPAO will review the portfolio within 2 weeks to enable a decision on a suitable project report scope and title. The EPAO will communicate the scope and title to the apprentice within 1 week of the review. The employer and apprentice are not involved in the decision on the project report, scope and title.

The EPA period starts when the EPAO confirms all gateway requirements have been met. The EPAO must complete this within 15 working days.

The apprentice must submit any policies and procedures as requested by the EPAO.

Order of assessment methods

Assessment methods 1 and 2 can be delivered in any order or concurrently. However, the assessment components in assessment method 2 cannot be delivered in any order. The project report must be completed and written prior to the presentation and questions.

The rationale for this is that the presentation must be based on the content of the project report. The presentation will enable the apprentice to present their findings within the report and also give the assessor the opportunity to assess any of the KSBs which have not been captured within the report. The presentation will also give the assessor the opportunity to verify that the report is the work of the apprentice.

Professional discussion

Overview

In the discussion, an independent assessor and apprentice have a formal two-way conversation.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence. It gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate their competency across the KSBs mapped to this EPA method.

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • it allows the apprentice to be assessed against KSBs that may not naturally occur during other assessment methods
  • it allows scope for the apprentice to demonstrate the depth and breadth of KSBs, allowing for a distinction
  • it allows for the assessment of a disparate set of KSBs
  • it can be conducted remotely, potentially reducing cost
  • the use of a portfolio allows the apprentice to underpin their responses with evidence

Delivery

The professional discussion must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

The independent assessor conducts and assesses the professional discussion.

The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to assess the apprentice on the following themes:

  • Risk and Regulation Frameworks
  • Products and Customers
  • IT and Digital / systems and processes
  • Audit Knowledge
  • Green Finance and Sustainability
  • Strategy and Planning

The EPAO must give an apprentice at least 3 weeks notice of the professional discussion.

The independent assessor must have at least 2 week(s) to review the supporting documentation.

The apprentice must have access to their portfolio of evidence during the professional discussion.

The apprentice can refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence, however the portfolio of evidence is not directly assessed.

The professional discussion must last for 90 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the time of the professional discussion by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to answer the final question completely.

For the professional discussion, the independent assessor must ask at least 10 questions. Follow-up questions are allowed. The independent assessor must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training. The professional discussion must allow the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method at the highest possible grade.

The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. The records must include the KSBs met, the grade achieved and answers to questions.

The independent assessor will make all grading decisions.

Assessment location

The professional discussion must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s or employer’s premises).

The professional discussion can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.

The professional discussion should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must write an assessment specification and question bank. The specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs shown in the mapping. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. The EPAO should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. The assessment specification and questions must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

The EPAO must develop purpose-built question banks and ensure that appropriate quality assurance procedures are in place, for example, considering standardisation, training and moderation. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.

The EPAO must ensure that the apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

The EPAO must produce the following materials to support the professional discussion:

  • Independent assessor assessment materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank

  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

Project report, presentation and questions

Overview

The report involves the apprentice completing a written report based on a significant and defined project that has a real business application and benefit. The project must be completed on-programme in the last 6 months prior to gateway, and is not assessed. The report must then be written during the EPA period and will be assessed.

The project report, presentation and questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade. The EPAO must refer to the grading descriptors to ensure that the report is pitched appropriately

This assessment method includes 2 components:

  • Project Report
  • presentation with questions and answers

The project report and any components must be assessed holistically by the independent assessor when they are deciding the grade for this assessment method.

The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to assess the apprentice on the following themes:

  • Industry and company understanding / Analysis and problem solving
  • Communicating and Influencing
  • Stakeholder Management
  • Continuous Improvement

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • The report is designed to demonstrate the application of knowledge, skills and behaviours as they would occur in occupational practice. Producing a report reflects normal practice in the workplace for people working in this occupation and at this level, so this assessment method is appropriate. The project itself is not assessed.
  • It is a significant and relevant piece of work that thoroughly tests both higher and lower order knowledge, skills and behaviours.
  • This piece of work should have a real business benefit and is therefore a cost-effective assessment method

Component 1: Project report Delivery

The project report, presentation and questions must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

The apprentice must complete a project in the last 6 months of the apprenticeship before entering gateway. The project may be based on any of the following:

  • a specific problem
  • a recurring issue
  • an idea or opportunity.

This piece of work may also be based on:

  • The need to review and agree a change plan to improve a specific problem in the workplace.
  • The continuous improvement review of a current process, service or product to ensure it is fit for purpose and meets the current needs of the business
  • The planning and design of a project that has a strategic relevance and the potential to add value to the organisation.

The project report must be completed during the EPA period and will be based on the project completed pre-gateway. The project will not be assessed, however the project report will be assessed.

To ensure the report allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade, the EPAO should decide the project report title and scope at gateway to ensure it is suitable.

The apprentice can only start the project report after the gateway. They must complete and submit the report to the EPAO within 8 weeks of receiving confirmation of the report title from the EPAO. The employer should ensure the apprentice has the time and resources within this period, to plan and complete their project report. The project report and content should be completed unaided.

The apprentice may work as part of a team which could include technical internal or external support. However, the project report must be the apprentice’s own work and will be reflective of their own role and contribution. The apprentice and their employer must confirm that the project report is the apprentice’s own work when it is submitted.

The report must include at least:

In order to ensure the report is robust and sufficiently covers the KSBs, the report should include, at least:

  • An executive summary
  • An introduction
  • The scope of the project
  • Objectives of the project (including key performance indicators)
  • How the project outcomes were achieved
  • Outcome/Results

The project report has a maximum word count of 3500 words. A tolerance of 10% above the word count is allowed at the apprentice’s discretion. Appendices, references and diagrams are not included in this total. An appendix must be included showing how the project report maps to the KSBs that are being assessed by this method.

Should an apprentice fail component 1, the apprentice will need to re-take component 1 before progressing to component 2.

Component 2: Presentation with questions

Delivery

In the presentation with questions the apprentice delivers a presentation to an independent assessor based on the report and critically evaluates their outcomes and results. The independent assessor must ask questions following the presentation. This gives the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

The purpose of the questions is:.

  • for clarification
  • to assess the depth and breadth of understanding
  • to attest that the project report is the apprentice's own work
  • to assess any KSBs which are not evident in the project report

The presentation will provide an overview and salient points of the apprentice’s report with the opportunity for questions and answers presentation with questions and answers. The independent assessor must ask questions after the presentation. All presentations must include at least:

  • an overview of the project report
  • the scope of the project report (including key performance indicators)
  • summary of actions undertaken by the apprentice
  • outcomes and how these were achieved.

The apprentice must prepare and submit their presentation to the EPAO at the same time as the apprentice submits the project report.

The apprentice must notify the EPAO, at the submission of the presentation, of any technical requirements for the presentation. For the presentation, the apprentice will have access to:

  • Audio-visual presentation equipment
  • Flip chart and writing and drawing materials
  • Computer
  • Any other requirements as previously notified to the EPAO

The independent assessor must have at least 2 weeks to mark the report to allow the independent assessor to prepare questions.

The EPAO must give the apprentices at least 1 week(s) notice of the date and time of the presentation with questions.

The apprentice must deliver their presentation to the independent assessor on a one-to-one basis

The independent assessor must ask questions after the presentation.

The presentation and questions must last 60 minutes. This will typically include a presentation of 20 minutes and questioning lasting 40 minutes. The independent assessor can increase the total time of the presentation and questioning by up to 10%. This time is to allow the apprentice to complete their last point or respond to a question if necessary.

The independent assessor must ask at least 8 questions. They must use the questions from the EPAO’s question bank or create their own questions in-line with the EPAO’s training. Follow up questions are allowed where clarification is required.

The independent assessor must use the full time available for questioning. There is equal weighting between the presentation and questioning components.

Assessment location

The presentation with questions must take place in a suitable venue selected by the EPAO (for example the EPAO’s or employer’s premises).

The presentation with questions should take place in a quiet room, free from distractions and influence.

The presentation with questioning can be conducted by video conferencing. The EPAO must have processes in place to verify the identity of the apprentice and ensure the apprentice is not being aided.

Question and resource development

The EPAO must write an assessment specification and question bank. The specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. It is recommended this is done in consultation with employers of this occupation. EPAOs should maintain the security and confidentiality of EPA materials when consulting employers. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this. The assessment specification and questions must be reviewed at least once a year by the EPAO to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.

The EPAO must develop purpose-built question banks and ensure that appropriate quality assurance procedures are in place, for example, considering standardisation, training and moderation. EPAOs must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard.

The EPAO must ensure that apprentice has a different set of questions in the case of re-sits or re-takes.

EPAO must produce the following materials to support the project report, presentation and questions:

  • independent assessor EPA materials which include:
    • training materials
    • administration materials
    • moderation and standardisation materials
    • guidance materials
    • grading guidance
    • question bank
  • EPA guidance for the apprentice and the employer

Grading

Professional discussion

Fail - does not meet pass criteria

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Risk and regulation frameworks
K1 K2 K3 K5 K7 S3 S8

Articulates the role of the industry regulators, their inter-relationships and objectives and the impact on the apprentice's organisation. K2, K3

Critically analyses how the features and principles of the industry legal and regulatory framework have evolved over time, leading to the current role of their organisation plays in the wellbeing of society K1, K5

Analyses the extent to which professional standards and methods of working are applied within the organisation. Co-ordinates and manages work and documentation to meet legal, regulatory and company deadlines in line with industry professional standards and best practice’. K7, S3, S8

 

Critically analyses the degree to which the organisation’s documentation aligns to professional standards and best practice. K7, S3, S8

 

Products and customers
K9 K10 K11 S4 S12 B4

Analyses customer segmentation and needs to determine whether it meets legal, regulatory, process and/or organisational policy requirements.  K9, S4

Articulates the risks to clients of the organisation’s products and services and applies policies and processes to ensure fair customer outcomes, manages conflict to produce win:win outcomes in line with the ethical code of conduct for the sector/organisation. K10, K11, S12, B4

Critically analyses the degree to which organisational, legal and regulatory policies and processes ensure fair customer outcomes. K10, S4

 

IT and digital /systems and processes
K16 K18 S19

Applies data protection legislation and organisational policy to handle data safely and securely when sharing and storing information mitigating the risks from cybercrime K16, K18, S19

 

Analyses the risk to the organisation's data from cybercrime K18, S19

 

Audits
K4 K17

Articulates internal and external audit requirements and the responsibilities of all parties to the audit. Outlines the implications to the organisation of audit findings of non-compliance K4, K17

 

N/A

 

Green finance and sustainability
K19 K20

Evaluates the manageability of environment and sustainability risks relative to compliance and risk. Outlines the role key stakeholders play in sustainable finance and how it is incorporated into risk/compliance frameworks. K19, K20

 

N/A

 

Strategy and planning
K14 S1 S15 B6

Applies the principles of strategic planning to solve problems faced by customers which lead to changes and/or overcome challenges, in line with organisational policies and procedures K14, S1, S15, B6  

 

Critiques actions taken to solve customer problems and justifies changes to organisational policies and procedures K14, S1, B6

 

 

Project report, presentation and questions

Fail - does not meet pass criteria

Theme
KSBs
Pass
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors
Distinction
Apprentices must demonstrate all the pass descriptors and all of the distinction descriptors
Industry and company understanding / analysis and problem solving
K6 S5

Analyses competitor activity and political, social and environmental factors which change organisational risk appetite to reach conclusions and make recommendations as to how they might be mitigated K6, S5

 

N/A

 

Communicating and influencing
K13 S2 S6 S7 S9 S13 S17 B3 B7

Applies communication skills adapting to the audience and outputs required, collaborates with others and promotes teamwork in line with the organisational policies on working with others, equality and inclusivity K13 S6, S7, B7

Justifies the use of digital tools for project research, analysis and data presentation and to build reports specific to the audience S2, S17

Evaluates how their leadership in the project challenges and influences managers and colleagues on a course of action in order to achieve outcomes S9, S13, B3

Justifies their selection and application of communication styles and why others were not suitable K13, S6

 

Evaluates the use of digital tools to build reports and the extent to which they meet audience requirements S2, S17

 

 

 

 

Stakeholder management
K8 K12 S10 S11 B1 B5

Outlines the purpose of their team or departments and any other teams or organisations the project aligns with which enables building and maintaining of stakeholder relationships and expectations K8, K12 S10

 

Justifies the methods used in the project to build trust and achieve results with co-workers based on their own decisions, in line with the organisational policies and guidelines on honesty, integrity and confidentiality S11, B1, B5

 

Evaluates the approach they took in building trust with colleagues and how this influenced achieving the desired course of action K12, S8, S10

 

Continuous improvement
K15 S14 S16 S18 B2

Articulates the principles of continuous improvement and how they apply continued learning to deliver improved outcomes. Uses external network opportunities to take ownership of their own development needs to maintain own knowledge and assist colleagues’ development of K15, S14, S16, S18, B2

 

N/A

 

Overall EPA grading

The assessment methods contribute equally to the overall EPA pass grade.

Performance in the EPA will determine the apprenticeship grade of:

    • fail
    • pass
    • merit
    • distinction

Independent assessors must individually grade the: professional discussion, project report and presentation and questions according to the requirements set out in this EPA plan.

EPAOs must combine the individual assessment method grades to determine the overall EPA grade.

An apprentice who fails one or more assessment method will be awarded an overall EPA fail.

An apprentice must achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods to get an overall pass. To achieve an overall EPA 'pass', the apprentice must achieve a pass in both assessment methods.To achieve an overall EPA ‘merit,’ the apprentice must achieve a pass in one of the assessment methods and a distinction in the other. To achieve an overall EPA ‘distinction’, apprentices must achieve a distinction in both assessment methods

Grades from individual assessment methods should be combined in the following way to determine the grade of the EPA overall.

Professional discussion Project report, presentation and questions Overall Grading
Fail Fail Fail
Any grade Fail Fail
Fail Any grade Fail
Pass Pass Pass
Pass Distinction Merit
Distinction Pass Merit
Distinction Distinction Distinction

Re-sits and re-takes

An apprentice who fails one or more assessment method(s) can take a re-sit or a re-take at their employer’s discretion. The apprentice’s employer needs to agree that a re-sit or re-take is appropriate. A re-sit does not need further learning, whereas a re-take does.

An apprentice should have a supportive action plan to prepare for a re-sit or a re-take.

The employer and EPAO agree the timescale for a re-sit or re-take. A re-sit is typically taken within 3 months of the EPA outcome notification. The timescale for a re-take is dependent on how much re-training is required and is typically taken within 4 months of the EPA outcome notification.

Failed assessment methods must be re-sat or re-taken within a 6-month period from the EPA outcome notification, otherwise the entire EPA will need to be re-sat or re-taken in full.

Re-sits and re-takes are not offered to an apprentice wishing to move from pass to a higher grade.

An apprentice will get a maximum EPA grade of pass for a re-sit or re-take, unless the EPAO determines there are exceptional circumstances.

Roles and responsibilities

Roles Responsibilities

Apprentice

As a minimum, the apprentice should:

  • participate in and complete on-programme training to meet the KSBs as outlined in the occupational standard for a minimum of 12 months
  • complete the required amount of off-the-job training specified by the apprenticeship funding rules and as arranged by the employer and training provider
  • understand the purpose and importance of EPA
  • meet the gateway requirements 
  • undertake the EPA  

 

Employer

As a minimum, the apprentice's employer must:

  • select the EPAO and training provider 
  • work with the training provider (where applicable) to support the apprentice in the workplace and to provide the opportunities for the apprentice to develop the KSBs
  • arrange and support off-the-job training to be undertaken by the apprentice 
  • decide when the apprentice is working at or above the occupational standard and is ready for EPA 
  • ensure that supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in line with this EPA plan 
  • liaise with the training provider and EPAO to ensure the EPA is booked in a timely manner

Post-gateway, the employer must: 

  • confirm arrangements with the EPAO for the EPA (who, when, where) in a timely manner (including providing access to any employer-specific documentation as required, for example company policies)
  • ensure that the EPA is scheduled with the EPAO for a date and time which allows the opportunity for the apprentice to be assessed against the KSBs 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • ensure the apprentice is given sufficient time away from regular duties to prepare for, and complete all post-gateway elements of the EPA, and that any required supervision during this time (as stated within this EPA plan) is in place
  • where the apprentice is assessed in the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the resources used on a regular basis 
  • pass the certificate to the apprentice upon receipt from the EPAO

EPAO

As a minimum, the EPAO must:  

  • conform to the requirements of this EPA plan and deliver its requirements in a timely manner 
  • conform to the requirements of the register of end-point assessment organisations (RoEPAO) 
  • conform to the requirements of the external quality assurance provider (EQAP) for this apprenticeship 
  • understand the occupational standard 
  • make the EPA contractual arrangements, including agreeing the price of the EPA 
  • develop and produce assessment materials as detailed for each assessment method in this EPA plan 
  • appoint qualified and competent independent assessors in line with the requirements of this EPA plan to conduct assessments and oversee their working 
  • appoint administrators (and invigilators where required) to administer the EPA  
  • provide training for independent assessors in terms of good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and grading 
  • provide information, advice, guidance and documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA 
  • confirm all gateway requirements have been met as quickly as possible 
  • arrange for the EPA to take place, in consultation with the employer 
  • ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary, where the apprentice is not assessed in the workplace 
  • develop and provide assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to stakeholders 
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • have policies and procedures for internal quality assurance (IQA), and maintain records of IQA activity and moderation for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes 
  • deliver induction training for independent assessors, and for invigilators and markers (where used) 
  • undertake standardisation activity on this apprenticeship for an independent assessor before they conduct an EPA for the first time, if the EPA is updated and periodically (a minimum of annually) 
  • manage invigilation of the apprentice to maintain security of the assessment in line with the EPAO’s malpractice policy 
  • verify the identity of the apprentice  
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 

Independent assessor

As a minimum, an independent assessor must: 

  • have the competence to assess the apprentice at the level of this apprenticeship and hold any required qualifications and experience in line with the requirements of the independent assessor as detailed in the IQA section of this EPA plan 
  • understand the occupational standard and the requirements of this EPA 
  • have, maintain and be able to evidence, up-to-date knowledge and expertise of the occupation 
  • deliver the end-point assessment in-line with this EPA plan 
  • comply with the IQA requirements of the EPAO 
  • have no direct connection or conflict of interest with the apprentice, their employer or training provider; in all instances; there must be no conflict of interest 
  • attend induction training 
  • attend standardisation events when they start working for the EPAO, before they conduct an EPA for the first time and a minimum of annually for this apprenticeship  
  • assess each assessment method, as determined by the EPA plan  
  • assess the KSBs assigned to each assessment method, as shown in the mapping of KSBs to assessment methods in this EPA plan  
  • make the grading decisions 
  • record and report assessment outcome decisions, for each apprentice, following instructions and using assessment recording documentation provided by the EPAO, in a timely manner 
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard 
  • mark open (constructed) test answers accurately according to the EPAO’s mark scheme and procedures 

Training provider

As a minimum, the training provider must: 

  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the KSBs as listed in the occupational standard 
  • conduct training covering the KSBs agreed as part of the Commitment Statement or the Individual Learning Plan 
  • monitor the apprentice’s progress during any training provider led on-programme learning 
  • advise the employer, upon request, on the apprentice’s readiness for EPA 
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA 

Reasonable adjustments

The EPAO must have reasonable adjustments arrangements for the EPA.

This should include:

  • how an apprentice qualifies for reasonable adjustment
  • what reasonable adjustments may be made

Adjustments must maintain the validity, reliability and integrity of the EPA as outlined in this EPA plan.

Internal quality assurance

Internal quality assurance refers to how the EPAO ensures valid, consistent and reliable EPA decisions. The EPAO must adhere to the requirements within the roles and responsibilities section and:

  • have effective and rigorous quality assurance systems and procedures that ensure fair, reliable and consistent EPA regardless of employer, place, time or independent assessor
  • appoint independent assessors who are competent to deliver the EPA and who:
    • have recent relevant experience of the occupation or sector to at least occupational level 2 gained in the last 3 years or significant experience of the occupation or sector
  • operate induction training for anyone involved in the delivery or assessment of the EPA
  • provide training for independent assessors in good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and making grading decisions
  • provide ongoing training for markers and invigilators
  • provide standardisation activity for this apprenticeship standard for all independent assessors:
    • before they conduct an EPA for the first time
    • if the EPA is updated
    • periodically as appropriate (a minimum of annually)
  • conduct effective moderation of EPA decisions and grades
  • conduct appeals where required, according to the EPAO’s appeals procedure, reviewing and making final decisions on EPA decisions and grades
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider; in HEI.

Value for money

Affordability of the EPA will be aided by using at least some of the following:

  • utilising digital remote platforms to conduct applicable assessment methods
  • using the employer’s premises
  • conducting assessment methods on the same day

Professional recognition

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) qualification. Successful completion of this qualification will give access to full membership of the Institute and MCSI designatory letters.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Institute of Risk Management qualifications. Successful completion of a qualification would give recognition as a Certificate Member (IRMCert) when completing the Certificate qualifications and Graduate Member (GradIRM) when completing the Diploma.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Banking Institute qualification. An apprentice successfully completing the qualification would be eligible for recognition as a Certified Member (CCBI) and would be able to use the professional designation 'CRP' (Climate Risk Professional).

The apprenticeship aligns with The International Compliance Association qualifications. Successful completion of a qualification will give access to full professional membership of the ICA and permit the use of the MICA designatory letters.

This apprenticeship aligns with The Chartered Institute of Credit Management qualification. An apprentice successfully completing this qualification would be eligible for Graduate Membership MCICM(Grad).

Mapping of KSBs to assessment methods

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

The features and principles of the legal and regulatory framework in their industry.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K2

The role of regulators in their industry, their objectives and primary functions.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K3

The inter-relationships between different regulators and their organisation.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K4

The implications of non-compliance on the organisation.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K5

The history of the industry and the role their organisation plays in the wellbeing of society.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K6

Factors that can change risk appetite in an organisation including competitor activity, political, social and environmental factors and how these can be mitigated.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
K7

Professional standards and best practice and how these are applied.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K8

The role of their team or department, the different teams and organisations they work with and how they support them.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
K9

Approaches to identify customer segments and needs.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K10

The policies and processes in place to ensure fair customer outcomes.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K11

Financial and compliance risks within the organisation’s products and services available to customers.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K12

The principles of excellent stakeholder management relative to their role.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
K13

The principles of communication techniques such as, active listening, team communications, business storytelling, negotiation techniques, conflict management and, diversity, equality and inclusivity considerations.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
K14

The features and principles of strategic planning relative to their role.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K15

Continuous improvement principles and techniques relative to their role.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
K16

The systems, tools and processes required in the role such as the impact of technology on risk management, cyber security, AI, blockchain, digital tools.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K17

Internal and external audit requirements and the responsibilities of the auditor and auditee.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K18

The impact of data protection legislation and the processes for sharing and storing information safely and securely including risks to data from cybercrime.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K19

The nature and importance of key climate, environmental and emerging sustainability risks, relative to compliance and risk, and how these may be managed.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
K20

The extent to which sustainable finance is incorporated in risk and compliance frameworks and the role of key stakeholders.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
Skill Assessment methods
S1

Think laterally, take a wide perspective of the issue at hand, consider aspects of a problem to formulate an operational or strategic plan.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
S2

Build reports to suit the requirement of the audience, for example departmental plans, key performance indicators (KPIs) and project reports.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S3

Plan and organise own work to meet legal, regulatory, organisational deadlines.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
S4

Analyse and interpret information to assess whether it meets legal, regulatory, process or policy requirements.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
S5

Analyse information to identify key issues, draw conclusions and make recommendations.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S6

Demonstrate different communication methods and adapt communication style to their audience, being clear on purpose of communication and outputs required, for example; verbal, written, virtual communication, presentations.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S7

Demonstrate different communication styles such as, active listening, team communications, business storytelling, negotiation techniques, conflict management, cross-cultural communications, equality and inclusivity considerations.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S8

Maintain documents in line with current regulation and policy.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
S9

Challenge and influence managers and colleagues on desired course of action

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S10

Build and maintain working relationships with stakeholders, contracting and managing stakeholder expectations.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S11

Build trust with colleagues, collaborating to achieve results.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S12

Manage conflict, demonstrating empathy and a desire to work towards win-win outcomes.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
S13

Lead others to achieve desired outcomes.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S14

Apply continuous improvement techniques to deliver improved compliance and risk outcomes for the organisation, for example seek feedback and respond to improve performance.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S15

Develop strategies to implement change.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
S16

Network with others in the profession to keep up to date with changes in the industry, best practice and potential opportunities.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S17

Use digital tools for research, analysis, and to present data using visualisation techniques.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S18

Demonstrate technology to others and keeps up to date with developments in IT relative to their role.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
S19

Handle data safely and securely and share information in compliance with data protection legislation and organisation’s policy.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
Behaviour Assessment methods
B1

Displays honesty and integrity - truthful in their actions. Shows integrity by doing the right thing, maintains confidentiality and acts with due care and diligence.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
B2

Takes ownership of continued professional development, acts as a role model and supports others in their development.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
B3

Takes an adaptable, evidence-based approach to decision making in the context of specific situations or environments.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
B4

Resilient in challenging, changing environments. Shows emotional intelligence to resolve conflicts when they arise.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
B5

Takes responsibility for decisions and procedures implemented.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions
B6

Displays a growth mindset, learning from failures, spotting opportunities and overcoming challenges.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion
B7

Collaborates and promotes teamwork across diverse teams; internal, external and across disciplines.

Back to Grading
Project report, presentation and questions

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Professional discussion - Discussion

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Risk and regulation frameworks
K1 K2 K3 K5 K7
S3 S8

The features and principles of the legal and regulatory framework in their industry. (K1)

The role of regulators in their industry, their objectives and primary functions. (K2)

The inter-relationships between different regulators and their organisation. (K3)

The history of the industry and the role their organisation plays in the wellbeing of society. (K5)

Professional standards and best practice and how these are applied. (K7)

Plan and organise own work to meet legal, regulatory, organisational deadlines. (S3)

Maintain documents in line with current regulation and policy. (S8)

N/A

Products and customers
K9 K10 K11
S4 S12
B4

Approaches to identify customer segments and needs. (K9)

The policies and processes in place to ensure fair customer outcomes. (K10)

Financial and compliance risks within the organisation’s products and services available to customers. (K11)

Analyse and interpret information to assess whether it meets legal, regulatory, process or policy requirements. (S4)

Manage conflict, demonstrating empathy and a desire to work towards win-win outcomes. (S12)

Resilient in challenging, changing environments. Shows emotional intelligence to resolve conflicts when they arise. (B4)

IT and digital /systems and processes
K16 K18
S19

The systems, tools and processes required in the role such as the impact of technology on risk management, cyber security, AI, blockchain, digital tools. (K16)

The impact of data protection legislation and the processes for sharing and storing information safely and securely including risks to data from cybercrime. (K18)

Handle data safely and securely and share information in compliance with data protection legislation and organisation’s policy. (S19)

N/A

Audits
K4 K17

The implications of non-compliance on the organisation. (K4)

Internal and external audit requirements and the responsibilities of the auditor and auditee. (K17)

N/A

N/A

Green finance and sustainability
K19 K20

The nature and importance of key climate, environmental and emerging sustainability risks, relative to compliance and risk, and how these may be managed. (K19)

The extent to which sustainable finance is incorporated in risk and compliance frameworks and the role of key stakeholders. (K20)

N/A

N/A

Strategy and planning
K14
S1 S15
B6

The features and principles of strategic planning relative to their role. (K14)

Think laterally, take a wide perspective of the issue at hand, consider aspects of a problem to formulate an operational or strategic plan. (S1)

Develop strategies to implement change. (S15)

Displays a growth mindset, learning from failures, spotting opportunities and overcoming challenges. (B6)

Project report, presentation and questions - Project

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Industry and company understanding / analysis and problem solving
K6
S5

Factors that can change risk appetite in an organisation including competitor activity, political, social and environmental factors and how these can be mitigated. (K6)

Analyse information to identify key issues, draw conclusions and make recommendations. (S5)

N/A

Communicating and influencing
K13
S2 S6 S7 S9 S13 S17
B3 B7

The principles of communication techniques such as, active listening, team communications, business storytelling, negotiation techniques, conflict management and, diversity, equality and inclusivity considerations. (K13)

Build reports to suit the requirement of the audience, for example departmental plans, key performance indicators (KPIs) and project reports. (S2)

Demonstrate different communication methods and adapt communication style to their audience, being clear on purpose of communication and outputs required, for example; verbal, written, virtual communication, presentations. (S6)

Demonstrate different communication styles such as, active listening, team communications, business storytelling, negotiation techniques, conflict management, cross-cultural communications, equality and inclusivity considerations. (S7)

Challenge and influence managers and colleagues on desired course of action (S9)

Lead others to achieve desired outcomes. (S13)

Use digital tools for research, analysis, and to present data using visualisation techniques. (S17)

Takes an adaptable, evidence-based approach to decision making in the context of specific situations or environments. (B3)

Collaborates and promotes teamwork across diverse teams; internal, external and across disciplines. (B7)

Stakeholder management
K8 K12
S10 S11
B1 B5

The role of their team or department, the different teams and organisations they work with and how they support them. (K8)

The principles of excellent stakeholder management relative to their role. (K12)

Build and maintain working relationships with stakeholders, contracting and managing stakeholder expectations. (S10)

Build trust with colleagues, collaborating to achieve results. (S11)

Displays honesty and integrity - truthful in their actions. Shows integrity by doing the right thing, maintains confidentiality and acts with due care and diligence. (B1)

Takes responsibility for decisions and procedures implemented. (B5)

Continuous improvement
K15
S14 S16 S18
B2

Continuous improvement principles and techniques relative to their role. (K15)

Apply continuous improvement techniques to deliver improved compliance and risk outcomes for the organisation, for example seek feedback and respond to improve performance. (S14)

Network with others in the profession to keep up to date with changes in the industry, best practice and potential opportunities. (S16)

Demonstrate technology to others and keeps up to date with developments in IT relative to their role. (S18)

Takes ownership of continued professional development, acts as a role model and supports others in their development. (B2)

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Contact us about this apprenticeship

Employers involved in creating the standard: Natwest Bank, Charles Stanley, UBS, Aviva, Standard Chartered, Coventry Building Society, Barclays, Lloyds Bank, HSBC, Nationwide, Sainsbury's Bank, JP Morgan, TSB, Directline Group, Santander

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.1 Standard, funding and end-point assessment plan revised 04/02/2023 Not set Not set
1.0 Approved for delivery 19/09/2016 03/02/2023 Not set

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