We use cookies to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. See more about our use of cookies.

Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education logo

Trading standards professional

Key information

  1. Status: Approved for delivery
  2. Reference: ST0998
  3. Version: 1.0
  4. Level: 6
  5. Degree: non-degree qualification
  6. Typical duration to gateway: 36 months
  7. Typical EPA period: 5 months
  8. Maximum funding: £22000
  9. Route: Business and administration
  10. Date updated: 22/12/2022
  11. Approved for delivery: 9 November 2022
  12. Lars code: 692
  13. EQA provider: Ofqual
  14. Review:

    This apprenticeship standard will be reviewed after three years

Print apprenticeship summary

Apprenticeship summary

Overview of the role

Help ensure safe, fair, and legal marketplaces.

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in local authorities, government departments and small and medium service and business compliance teams in the private sector such as manufacturing and retail. The occupation is found where there is a need for the organisation to comply with consumer protection legislation and regulatory requirements and/or where the organisation has a duty or responsibility for ensuring that businesses and/or individuals comply with those standards, specifications and/or legal requirements.

The occupation identifies and reduces detrimental consumer harm such as where organisations have made false or misleading claims about the environmental benefits of a product or service (so called “greenwashing”).

Trading standards professionals are typically office based, home based and work in organisations where goods and services are designed, produced, stored, distributed, promoted, and sold.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to help ensure safe, fair, and legal marketplaces, helping businesses succeed and protecting communities. They do this by safeguarding buyers of goods and services, and the public, against unfair practices in the marketplace. They can work autonomously to provide highly specialist legal and technical expertise, advice and guidance and direction delivering effective consumer protection. Trading standards professionals require legislative knowledge alongside enforcement and investigative skills to enable them to lead and manage inspections and interventions to ensure an organisation’s compliance with consumer protection legislation including any actions and improvements applied to meet legislation. They operate in both the public and private sector.

In the public sector they ensure consumers are protected, working with businesses, or taking formal action to ensure compliance with consumer protection and trading standards law. Examples include where an organisation advertises that their goods and services are environmentally friendly, but they are not, or selling a product that is unsafe.

In the private sector they ensure relevant law is implemented and complied with, and employees follow company direction, which creates a fair-trading environment.

Trading standards professionals advise businesses to prevent them from engaging in fraudulent and unfair practices to maintain fair and safe trading environments. They may also provide additional protection for the public which may be impacted by a product (or its production) even when they are not the direct purchaser or consumer of that product. They specialise in protecting consumers and/or advising businesses in one or more of the following areas: Animal Health, Fair Trading, Feed & Agriculture, Food Standards, Hallmarking, Intellectual Property, Petroleum & Explosives, Environmental Climate Change, Product Safety, Weights, and Measures.

Trading standards practitioners must be independently mobile and have use of a vehicle, as this role involves work at a variety of urban and rural locations.

The role requires an amount of handling and carrying of sensitive and confidential documents and lifting some equipment. There will be a requirement to work with internal and external partners and to act as a liaison officer between the service and other organisations.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with a range of internal stakeholders including members of their own team, HR, IT Finance and Communications. They also interact with external stakeholders such as regulatory services in local and central government agencies, legal advisers, and other compliance experts providing interpretation of legislation.

Trading standards professionals develop effective communications and networks with partners, to promote their organisation’s activities. They exchange and share their organisation’s plans and objectives on consumer protection activities with the partnership and alert them of issues affecting businesses and the community.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for developing and managing staff, legal compliance, safety compliance, quality, and risk management systems, managing auditing systems and implementing outcomes. They have autonomy, making judgements and take responsibility for their own work. They plan and develop actions which lead to substantial changes regarding service delivery or developments both internally and externally.

Trading standards professionals provide best practice, delivering high quality technical advice and knowledge for their organisation’s compliance and regulatory departments; and to other organisations which they regulate or audit to ensure compliance with the law and standards. They initiate and lead tasks and processes, taking responsibility for the work of others and the allocation of significant resources such as staff, equipment and budget for its projects and services. They support best practice and provide guidance to their organisation’s regulatory, business, consumer, and trading compliance functions. They sustain a fair and safe trading environment for customers, consumers, and businesses, through interpreting and enforcing a wide range of trading standards legislation. Where legally empowered, they can deliver expert advice to businesses.

Trading standards professionals investigate issues and complaints, undertaking reviews or audits, to determine appropriate outcomes and regulatory actions to be implemented. They provide input, guidance, recommendations, and support to their stakeholders for the continuous improvement in their strategies and policies. They monitor, adapt, and respond to changes in the business and legislation environment.

Typically Trading standards professionals work independently and in a team. They will have line management responsibility for junior officers e.g., Regulatory Compliance Officer and manage a budget in support of the work of their team. They require a commercial mindset to work within agreed budgets and available resources. They work without high levels of supervision, and usually report to senior stakeholders. They are responsible for technical decision making and ensure that all work is delivered within agreed timescales. Although this role will have some managerial responsibilities its main focus is the responsibility for technical and specialist areas.

Typical job titles include:

Compliance team leader (trading standards) Principal/senior trading standards officer Regulatory services manager

Duties

  • Duty 1 Lead and manage inspections, investigations, and other interventions, which include auditing, examining and critically appraising business procedures, processes, and products, to assess levels of consumer protection and compliance.
  • Duty 2 Analyse, interpret and evaluate data, applying judgment and technical expertise to identify risk, support the resolution of issues and enable decision making.
  • Duty 3 Interview potential offenders for breaches of regulatory requirements in accordance with evidential requirements and best practice.
  • Duty 4 Present evidence in court and at other hearings, complying with the relevant rules of evidence, procedure, and professional standards.
  • Duty 5 Take appropriate legal and tactical decisions regarding the progress of investigations or work in the organisation using expertise in trading standards legislation, investigative practice, and industry best practice.
  • Duty 6 Promote and champion improvement of compliance standards and processes for consumer protection within the organisation.
  • Duty 7 Promote social inclusion and develop and implement practices that uphold the organisation’s equality and diversity policies and promote equal opportunities in employment and in-service delivery.
  • Duty 8 Promote a climate change focussed approach that upholds the organisations climate change and net carbon zero policies and promote sustainable approaches in delivery.
  • Duty 9 Lead and manage projects from inception to completion.
  • Duty 10 Develop partnership communication networks to promote the organisation’s activities.
  • Duty 11 Deliver support to the organisation, business community and suppliers to achieve business productivity and growth.
  • Duty 12 Lead, manage and develop staff, information, and resources to provide the employer with effective services to meet its consumer protection compliance responsibilities.
  • Duty 13 Contribute to strategic decisions affecting the service and deal with enquiries made of the service.
  • Duty 14 Contribute to the production and implementation of service plans against targets, performance indicators and budgets.
  • Duty 15 Review the organisation’s activities, present findings to the Trading Standards Manager / Head of Regulatory Service / Organisational Head and make recommendations that support decision making and continual improvement to improve investigation, compliance and reduce complaints.

Apprenticeship summary

ST0998, trading standards professional 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
  • 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 work based project with presentation and questioning, the project's title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO and a project summary submitted

  • for the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio, you must submit a portfolio of evidence



Assessment methods








Project with report



You will complete a project and write a report. You will be asked to complete a project. The title and scope must be agreed with the EPAO at the gateway. The report should be a maximum of 4500 words (with a 10% tolerance).

You will have 12 weeks to complete the project and submit the report to the EPAO.




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 6 questions about the project and presentation.




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 8 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.






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 Chartered Trading Standards Institute for Chartered Trading Standards Practitioner Membership

Please contact the professional body for more details.

Print occupational standard

Details of the occupational standard

Occupation summary

This occupation is found in local authorities, government departments and small and medium service and business compliance teams in the private sector such as manufacturing and retail. The occupation is found where there is a need for the organisation to comply with consumer protection legislation and regulatory requirements and/or where the organisation has a duty or responsibility for ensuring that businesses and/or individuals comply with those standards, specifications and/or legal requirements.

The occupation identifies and reduces detrimental consumer harm such as where organisations have made false or misleading claims about the environmental benefits of a product or service (so called “greenwashing”).

Trading standards professionals are typically office based, home based and work in organisations where goods and services are designed, produced, stored, distributed, promoted, and sold.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to help ensure safe, fair, and legal marketplaces, helping businesses succeed and protecting communities. They do this by safeguarding buyers of goods and services, and the public, against unfair practices in the marketplace. They can work autonomously to provide highly specialist legal and technical expertise, advice and guidance and direction delivering effective consumer protection. Trading standards professionals require legislative knowledge alongside enforcement and investigative skills to enable them to lead and manage inspections and interventions to ensure an organisation’s compliance with consumer protection legislation including any actions and improvements applied to meet legislation. They operate in both the public and private sector.

In the public sector they ensure consumers are protected, working with businesses, or taking formal action to ensure compliance with consumer protection and trading standards law. Examples include where an organisation advertises that their goods and services are environmentally friendly, but they are not, or selling a product that is unsafe.

In the private sector they ensure relevant law is implemented and complied with, and employees follow company direction, which creates a fair-trading environment.

Trading standards professionals advise businesses to prevent them from engaging in fraudulent and unfair practices to maintain fair and safe trading environments. They may also provide additional protection for the public which may be impacted by a product (or its production) even when they are not the direct purchaser or consumer of that product. They specialise in protecting consumers and/or advising businesses in one or more of the following areas: Animal Health, Fair Trading, Feed & Agriculture, Food Standards, Hallmarking, Intellectual Property, Petroleum & Explosives, Environmental Climate Change, Product Safety, Weights, and Measures.

Trading standards practitioners must be independently mobile and have use of a vehicle, as this role involves work at a variety of urban and rural locations.

The role requires an amount of handling and carrying of sensitive and confidential documents and lifting some equipment. There will be a requirement to work with internal and external partners and to act as a liaison officer between the service and other organisations.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with a range of internal stakeholders including members of their own team, HR, IT Finance and Communications. They also interact with external stakeholders such as regulatory services in local and central government agencies, legal advisers, and other compliance experts providing interpretation of legislation.

Trading standards professionals develop effective communications and networks with partners, to promote their organisation’s activities. They exchange and share their organisation’s plans and objectives on consumer protection activities with the partnership and alert them of issues affecting businesses and the community.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for developing and managing staff, legal compliance, safety compliance, quality, and risk management systems, managing auditing systems and implementing outcomes. They have autonomy, making judgements and take responsibility for their own work. They plan and develop actions which lead to substantial changes regarding service delivery or developments both internally and externally.

Trading standards professionals provide best practice, delivering high quality technical advice and knowledge for their organisation’s compliance and regulatory departments; and to other organisations which they regulate or audit to ensure compliance with the law and standards. They initiate and lead tasks and processes, taking responsibility for the work of others and the allocation of significant resources such as staff, equipment and budget for its projects and services. They support best practice and provide guidance to their organisation’s regulatory, business, consumer, and trading compliance functions. They sustain a fair and safe trading environment for customers, consumers, and businesses, through interpreting and enforcing a wide range of trading standards legislation. Where legally empowered, they can deliver expert advice to businesses.

Trading standards professionals investigate issues and complaints, undertaking reviews or audits, to determine appropriate outcomes and regulatory actions to be implemented. They provide input, guidance, recommendations, and support to their stakeholders for the continuous improvement in their strategies and policies. They monitor, adapt, and respond to changes in the business and legislation environment.

Typically Trading standards professionals work independently and in a team. They will have line management responsibility for junior officers e.g., Regulatory Compliance Officer and manage a budget in support of the work of their team. They require a commercial mindset to work within agreed budgets and available resources. They work without high levels of supervision, and usually report to senior stakeholders. They are responsible for technical decision making and ensure that all work is delivered within agreed timescales. Although this role will have some managerial responsibilities its main focus is the responsibility for technical and specialist areas.

Typical job titles include:

Compliance team leader (trading standards) Principal/senior trading standards officer Regulatory services manager

Occupation duties

Duty KSBs

Duty 1 Lead and manage inspections, investigations, and other interventions, which include auditing, examining and critically appraising business procedures, processes, and products, to assess levels of consumer protection and compliance.

K1 K2 K3 K4 K5 K7 K22 K23

S1 S2 S4 S9

B1 B2 B4 B5

Duty 2 Analyse, interpret and evaluate data, applying judgment and technical expertise to identify risk, support the resolution of issues and enable decision making.

K1 K4 K5 K8

S1 S3 S4 S5 S21

B1 B2 B4

Duty 3 Interview potential offenders for breaches of regulatory requirements in accordance with evidential requirements and best practice.

K1 K2 K3 K7 K21

S1 S4 S7 S8

B1 B5

Duty 4 Present evidence in court and at other hearings, complying with the relevant rules of evidence, procedure, and professional standards.

K1 K3 K6 K7 K8

S2 S4 S8

B1 B5

Duty 5 Take appropriate legal and tactical decisions regarding the progress of investigations or work in the organisation using expertise in trading standards legislation, investigative practice, and industry best practice.

K1 K2 K4 K8 K23

S1 S4 S6 S9

B1 B2 B5

Duty 6 Promote and champion improvement of compliance standards and processes for consumer protection within the organisation.

K1 K6 K9 K14 K15 K21 K23

S10 S14 S15 S18

B1

Duty 7 Promote social inclusion and develop and implement practices that uphold the organisation’s equality and diversity policies and promote equal opportunities in employment and in-service delivery.

K10

S11 S18

B1 B5

Duty 8 Promote a climate change focussed approach that upholds the organisations climate change and net carbon zero policies and promote sustainable approaches in delivery.

K11

S12 S23

B1

Duty 9 Lead and manage projects from inception to completion.

K12 K19 K22

S1 S13 S21

B1 B2 B4 B5

Duty 10 Develop partnership communication networks to promote the organisation’s activities.

K6 K13

S10 S14 S15

B1 B4

Duty 11 Deliver support to the organisation, business community and suppliers to achieve business productivity and growth.

K6 K8 K13 K14 K15 K16 K20 K23

S15 S22

B1 B4 B5

Duty 12 Lead, manage and develop staff, information, and resources to provide the employer with effective services to meet its consumer protection compliance responsibilities.

K6 K16 K17 K21 K23 K24

S16 S18 S19 S21

B1 B3 B4 B5

Duty 13 Contribute to strategic decisions affecting the service and deal with enquiries made of the service.

K18 K20 K24

S20 S22

B1 B2 B5

Duty 14 Contribute to the production and implementation of service plans against targets, performance indicators and budgets.

K15 K18 K19 K22 K24

S17 S20

B1 B4 B5

Duty 15 Review the organisation’s activities, present findings to the Trading Standards Manager / Head of Regulatory Service / Organisational Head and make recommendations that support decision making and continual improvement to improve investigation, compliance and reduce complaints.

K15 K16 K18 K20 K24

S2 S17 S19 S20

B1 B5


KSBs

Knowledge

K1: Regulatory and legislative framework and technical application of relevant Acts, Regulations and Guidance in the consumer protection environment. Back to Duty

K2: Powers or remit to carry out monitoring of activities to ensure consumer protection and the investigative processes to achieve compliance, including test purchasing and surveillance. Back to Duty

K3: Principles and rules of collecting evidence for monitoring, investigations and enforcement purposes including seizure and detention powers, formal sampling procedures and exhibit referencing. Back to Duty

K4: Risk assessment methodologies and approaches to evaluate harm and planned interventions. Back to Duty

K5: Software tools used to analyse, interpret, and evaluate intelligence to inform judgements and enable decision making. Back to Duty

K6: Communication techniques and approaches to interact with a range of key internal and external stakeholders, including using current and emerging technologies to support communication. Back to Duty

K7: Rules of evidence, disclosure, procedure, and professional standards for presenting or defending cases in both the Criminal and Civil Courts. Back to Duty

K8: Decision making techniques and approaches that protect against reputational harm of the organisation. Back to Duty

K9: Operational standards and processes to promote consumer protection. Back to Duty

K10: Social inclusion and ethical practices and their importance in the organisation. Back to Duty

K11: Principles of environmental sustainability and its impact on organisation behaviours. Back to Duty

K12: Project management principles and how they are applied to consumer protection. Back to Duty

K13: Partnership working and the benefits of collaboration in advice, enforcement, and compliance. Back to Duty

K14: Role of trading standards practitioners and how it adds value, ensuring consumers and legitimate businesses are protected and thrive. Back to Duty

K15: How consumer protection is impacted by external factors affecting businesses and regulators. Back to Duty

K16: Drivers that deliver support to the organisation, business community and consumers. Back to Duty

K17: How to support the continuous development requirements and training and learning needs of the team. Back to Duty

K18: Approaches to strategic planning for their organisations such as horizon scanning, intelligence, and governance arrangements. Back to Duty

K19: Techniques for the production and implementation of plans against targets, performance indicators and budgets. Back to Duty

K20: Current and emerging technologies to adopt processes that better protect consumers and businesses. Back to Duty

K21: Safeguarding vulnerable consumers. Back to Duty

K22: Resource management and allocation. Back to Duty

K23: Best practice and guidance as applied in the consumer protection sector. Back to Duty

K24: Organisation structure, governance and controls and roles of key stakeholders. Back to Duty

Skills

S1: Lead and manage investigations and interventions. Back to Duty

S2: Apply investigative techniques and evidence gathering to produce reports with recommendations. Back to Duty

S3: Analyse, interpret, challenge, and evaluate data and intelligence. Back to Duty

S4: Interpret and apply relevant Acts, Regulations, Codes of Practice and Guidance in the consumer protection environment. Back to Duty

S5: Influence, negotiate and challenge stakeholders in the delivery and decision-making process. Back to Duty

S6: Use research, analytical and problem-solving techniques to resolve and prevent consumer protection issues. Back to Duty

S7: Conduct and/or respond to formal interviews in line with legal controls and best practice collaborating with legal representatives. Back to Duty

S8: Gather evidence for use for potential legal proceedings and acting as a witness when required. Back to Duty

S9: Make legal and tactical decisions to improve the outcomes in consumer protection investigations. Back to Duty

S10: Promote the improvement of compliance standards in consumer protection. Back to Duty

S11: Promote social inclusion in the workplace with businesses, stakeholders, and consumers. Back to Duty

S12: Promote environmental sustainability and support change to improve the environment. Back to Duty

S13: Lead and manage operational projects to achieve time dependent outcomes. Back to Duty

S14: Communicate complex information, best practice, and guidance in consumer protection, adapting delivery for different audiences. Back to Duty

S15: Collaborate with stakeholders to achieve agreed collective outcomes. Back to Duty

S16: Identify and apply industry developments to achieve continual service improvement. Back to Duty

S17: Lead the development and monitoring of financial strategies and setting of organisational budgets based on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) or similar, and challenge financial assumptions underpinning strategies. Back to Duty

S18: Build constructive working relationships across teams. Back to Duty

S19: Identify the training and development requirements of the team and stakeholders. Back to Duty

S20: Set strategic direction through the implementation of plans. Back to Duty

S21: Lead and respond to risks using risk management techniques. Back to Duty

S22: Provide support, specialist advice, and guidance for businesses, consumers, and stakeholders. Back to Duty

S23: Act as an advocate for projects and transformation of services across organisational boundaries such as those impacted by sustainability and the UK Net Carbon Zero. Back to Duty

Behaviours

B1: Role models ethical behaviour and practices. Back to Duty

B2: Works flexibly and adapts to circumstances. Back to Duty

B3: Seek learning and continuous professional development opportunities for self and wider team. Back to Duty

B4: Takes responsibility, shows initiative, and is organised. Back to Duty

B5: Take personal accountability aligned to clear values. 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.

Professional recognition

This standard aligns with the following professional recognition:

  • Chartered Trading Standards Institute for Chartered Trading Standards Practitioner Membership
Print EPA plan

End-point assessment plan

V1.0

Introduction and overview

This document explains the requirements for end-point assessment (EPA) for the Trading standards professional apprenticeship. End-point assessment organisations (EPAOs) must follow this when designing and delivering the EPA.

Trading standards professional 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 trading standards professional. 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.

Occupational competence is outlined by the EPA grade descriptors and determined, when assessed in accordance with this EPA plan, by an independent assessor who is an occupational expert and confirms the overall EPA grade.

This EPA has 2 assessment methods.

The grades available for each assessment method are:

Assessment method 1 - work based project with presentation and questioning:

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Assessment method 2 - professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio:

  • 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
  • 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 compile a portfolio of evidence.

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 trading standards professional
  • has the evidence required to pass the gateway and is ready to take the EPA

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

For the work based project with presentation and questioning, the apprentice must submit the following supporting material: project scoping document requirements. To ensure the project allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade, the EPAO should sign-off the project’s title and scope at the gateway to confirm it is suitable. A brief project summary must be submitted to the EPAO. It should be no more than 500 words. This needs to show that the project will provide the opportunity for the apprentice to cover the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. It is not assessed.

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

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:

Work based project with presentation and questioning

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio

  • fail
  • pass
  • distinction

Overall EPA and apprenticeship can be graded:

    • fail
    • pass
    • distinction
Professional recognition
This apprenticeship aligns with Chartered Trading Standards Institute for Chartered Trading Standards Practitioner Membership. The experience gained and responsibility held by the apprentice on completion of the apprenticeship will either wholly or partially satisfy the requirements for registration at this level.





Re-sits and re-takes



  • Re-take and re-sit grade cap: pass
  • Re-sit timeframe: typically 2 months
  • Re-take timeframe: typically 3 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 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
  • for the work based project with presentation and questioning the apprentice must submit Project scoping document

· the apprentice must agree the subject, title and scope for their project proposal with their employer and EPAO by submitting a scoping document which will be no more than 500 words.

  • for the professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio the apprentice must submit Portfolio of evidence

Portfolio of evidence requirements:

The apprentice 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 18 discrete pieces of evidence. Evidence must be mapped against the KSBs. 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
  • witness statements
  • annotated photographs
  • video clips (maximum total duration 5 minutes); 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 professional discussion. The independent assessor should review the portfolio of evidence to prepare questions for the professional discussion. They are not required to provide feedback after this review.

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

Order of assessment methods

The assessment methods can be delivered in any order.

The result of one assessment method does not need to be known before starting the next.

Work based project with presentation and questioning

Overview

A project involves the apprentice completing a significant and defined piece of work that has a real business application and benefit. The project must start after the apprentice has gone through the gateway.

The work based project with presentation and questioning must be structured to give the apprentice the opportunity to demonstrate the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade.

The project must meet the needs of the employer’s business and be relevant to the apprentice’s occupation and apprenticeship. The EPAO must confirm that it provides the apprentice with 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 projects are pitched appropriately.

This assessment method includes 2 components:

  • project with a project output
  • presentation with questions and answers

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

Rationale

This assessment method is being used because:

  • The work-based project is the most valid method as it allows the demonstration of professional competence. The project will contribute to the employer’s business and be part of the apprentices’ everyday work, ensuring that they can demonstrate KSBs in practice. Producing a report reflects normal practice in the workplace for a trading standards practitioner, so this assessment method is appropriate.
  • It is a significant and complex piece of work that thoroughly tests both higher and lower order knowledge and skills.
  • Note that it is essential that the project articulates the apprentice’s own work practice rather than the activities performed by the team of which they were part.

Component 1: Project with a project output

Delivery

The work based project with presentation and questioning 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 based on any of the following:

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

The project may also be based on:

Examples of the types of projects an apprentice could submit include:

  • Develop a new enforcement approach and practice to tackle the increase of underage sales of alcohol, including working with partners and businesses to reduce accessibility of alcohol to young people.
  • Create a new service area and structure to reflect a home-based Trading Standards / enforcement Team which still needs to be accessible and connected to businesses and consumers.
  • Design a new business advice service aimed at supporting the business to receive specialist Trading Standards advice on how to adjust to the regulatory changes brought about by the UK’s exit of the EU.
  • Develop a risk based and intelligence led model to target businesses most likely to be infringing consumer protection legislation and having a proportionate response to the issues identified.
  • Transform the business approach and response to regulatory interventions in stores, reflecting on the successes of the Primary Authority inspection schemes in ensuring an appropriate response to issues highlighted.

To ensure the project allows the apprentice to meet the KSBs mapped to this assessment method to the highest available grade, the EPAO should sign-off the project’s title and scope at the gateway to confirm it is suitable.

The project output must be in the form of a report.

The apprentice must start the project after the gateway. They must complete and submit the report to the EPAO after a maximum of 12 weeks. The employer should ensure the apprentice has the time and resources within this period, to plan and complete their project. The apprentice must complete their project and the production of all its components unaided.

The apprentice may work as part of a team which could include technical internal or external support. However, the project output 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 output(s) is the apprentice’s own work when it is submitted.

The report must include at least:

The apprentice will complete their project and submit it to the EPAO after a maximum of 12 weeks from the gateway. The written project report and the presentation will be submitted to the EPAO together, 2 weeks prior to the presentation taking place.

The project report has a maximum word count of 4500 words. A tolerance of 10% above or below the word count is allowed at the apprentice’s discretion. Appendices, references and diagrams are not included in this total. The project report must map, in an appendix, how it evidences the relevant KSBs mapped to this assessment method.

Component 2: Presentation with questions

Delivery

In the presentation with questions the apprentice delivers a presentation to an independent assessor on a set subject. 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 to assess the knowledge, skills and behaviours that have been assigned to this assessment method .

The presentation will provide an overview of the apprentice’s project and the 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
  • the project scope (including key performance indicators)
  • summary of actions undertaken by the apprentice
  • project outcomes and how these were achieved.

The apprentice must prepare and submit their presentation to the EPAO at the same time as the report which is a maximum of 12 weeks after the gateway.

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 review the project output(s) and presentation speaker notes and supporting materials, before the presentation is delivered by the apprentice, to allow them to prepare questions. 

The EPAO must give the apprentices at least 1 weeks 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 6 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.

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 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 work based project with presentation and questioning:

  • 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

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio

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 as part of a work-based project

• it allows the apprentice to show case their depth of understanding relating to the KSBs

• it allows the independent assessor to consider the context and sector that the apprentice operates within, giving flexibility to ensure that all the KSBs can be assessed appropriately

• it is cost effective, and it allows consideration of the potential need to conduct the EPA remotely.

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.

An independent assessor must conduct and assess the professional discussion.

The purpose of the independent assessor's questions will be to test competency in the knowledge, skills and behaviours assigned to this assessment method.

The EPAO must give an apprentice 1 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 respond to a question if necessary.

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

The independent assessor must make the grading decision. The independent assessor must keep accurate records of the assessment. They must record:

  • the apprentice’s answers to questions
  • the KSBs demonstrated in answers to questions
  • the grade achieved 

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 develop a purpose-built assessment specification and question bank. 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 assessment specification and question bank must be reviewed at least once a year to ensure they remain fit-for-purpose.  

The assessment specification must be relevant to the occupation and demonstrate how to assess the KSBs mapped to this assessment method. The EPAO must ensure that questions are refined and developed to a high standard. The questions must be unpredictable. A question bank of sufficient size will support this.

The EPAO must ensure that 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 underpinned by a portfolio:

  • 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

The EPAO must ensure that the EPA materials are subject to quality assurance procedures including standardisation, training, and moderation.

Grading

Work based project with presentation and questioning

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
Investigation and evidence gathering
K2 K13 S1 S2

Applies investigative and evidence gathering techniques in the project within their remit to monitor activities which lead to report recommendations that strengthen consumer protection and/or compliance’. (K2, S2)

Leads and manages advisory, enforcement or compliance investigations using partnership working and collaborative methods if appropriate to the scope/nature of the project. (K13, S1)

Critically evaluates the impact their choice of investigative techniques had on recommendations’. (K2, S2)

Data analysis, intelligence and risk management
K4 K5 S3 S6 S21

Leads the response to risks to identified in the scope of the project using appropriate risk assessment methods, evaluating both harm and planned interventions. (K4, S21)

Selects and applies software tools and research, analytical and problem-solving techniques to inform judgements and make decisions to help resolve and prevent consumer protection issues. (K5, S3, S6)

Critically evaluates the impact their choice of software tools had on resolving and/or preventing consumer protection issues’. (K5, S3)

Business and strategy
K19 S20

Applies techniques for the production and implementation of plans against targets, performance indicators and budgets which sets a strategic direction for the project. (K19, S20)

N/A

Communication and decision making
K6 S14 B4

Critically evaluates traditional communication techniques and those using new and emerging technologies to convey complex information and guidance on consumer protection, adapting delivery according to different stakeholder audiences in line with organisational work ethic policies. (K6, S14, B4)

N/A

Project and change management
K12 S10 S12 S13 B2

Applies project management principles to consumer protection, promoting better compliance standards and environmental sustainability. (K12, S10, S12)

Responds to new situations and adapts/ incorporates changes to achieve time dependent outcomes which are reflected in logbooks and/or project records. (S13, B2)

 

Critically evaluates how far the project promotes environmental sustainability. (S12)

Consumer protection
K15 K20

Evaluates the impact external factors have had on the consumer protection processes in the project. Justifies their adoption of current and emerging technologies to better protect consumers, businesses, and regulators. (K15, K20)

Critically analyses the degree to which current and emerging technologies have impacted on project outcomes. (K20)

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio

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
Regulation and legislation
K1 K9 S4

Interprets and applies the regulatory and legislative practices and procedures in the consumer protection environment using operational standards and processes to promote customer protection’. (K1, K9, S4)

Justifies their interpretation of regulation and legislation OR codes of practice and guidance, in the consumer protection environment. (K1, S4)

Investigation and evidence gathering
K3 K7 S7 S8 S15

Applies the principles and rules of collecting evidence for monitoring, investigations and enforcement purposes, leading to presenting or defending cases in both the Criminal and Civil Courts, agreeing to be a witness if required’. (K3, K7, S8)

Evaluates how they have collaborated with legal representatives to conduct and/or respond to formal interviews in line with legal controls and best practice. (S7)

Collaborates with stakeholders to achieve agreed collective outcomes (S15)

 

 

Evaluates the impact adhering to the principles and rules of collecting evidence has on the outcomes of legal proceedings. (K3, S8)

Business and strategy
K16 K18 S16 S17

 

Evaluates how they have identified industry developments, including any drivers that deliver support to their organisation and/or wider business community, to achieve continual service improvement (K16, S16)

Applies the principles of strategic planning linked to performance indicators and plays a lead role in managing and challenging financial and budgetary assumptions. (K18, S17)

 

 

Critically analyses the impact strategic planning has had on the development of organisational finance and the setting of budgets.  (K18, S17)

Communication and decision making
K8 S5 S9 B5

Applies decision making techniques to improve outcomes in investigations and protect the reputation of the organisation. Demonstrates personal accountability when influencing, challenging or negotiating with stakeholders in the delivery and decision-making process which reflects the values of the company/organisation’. (K8, S5, S9, B5)

Critically compares decision making techniques and approaches that protect against reputational harm of the organisation and/or improve outcomes in consumer protection investigations. (K8, S9)

Leadership and management
K17 K22 K24 S18 S19 B3

 

Outlines the organisational structure, governance and controls and the roles of key stakeholders. Explains how resource management and allocation (in the organisation) plays a part in building constructive working relationships across teams. (K22, K24, S18)

Identifies their own training and development needs and those of the team and stakeholders, supporting engagement in line with organisational CPD policies and endorsed by personal records’. (K17, S19)

Explains how they identify and seek out learning opportunities for professional development. (B3)

 

 

 

N/A

Environment and sustainability
K10 K11 S11 S23 B1

 

Promotes social inclusion and ethical practices in the workplace with businesses, stakeholders and consumers in line with organisational policies and procedures. (K10, S11, B1)

Analyses the impact of environmental sustainability on organisational behaviours, advocating for projects and transformation of services to be based on sustainable principles, across company boundaries. (K11, S23)

 

 

Evaluates the measures taken by the organisation to promote social inclusion and ethical practices across businesses stakeholders and consumers. (K10, S11)

Evaluates the changes to services resulting from the need to promote sustainability. (K11, S23)

 

Consumer protection
K14 K21 K23 S22

Explains the role of a trading standards practitioner, how it adds value to ensure consumers and legitimate businesses are protected. Outlines the principles of safeguarding vulnerable consumers. (K14, K21)  

Analyses best practice and guidance and how this is used to provide support and specialist advice for businesses, consumers and stakeholders. (K23, S22)

 

Evaluates the extent to which trading standards practitioners safeguard vulnerable consumers. (K14, K21)   

 

 

Overall EPA grading

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

Performance in the EPA determines the apprenticeship grade of:

    • fail
    • pass
    • distinction

An independent assessor must individually grade the: work based project with presentation and questioning and professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio in line with this EPA plan.

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

If the apprentice fails one or more assessment methods, they will be awarded an overall EPA fail. 

To achieve an overall pass, the apprentice should achieve at least a pass in all the assessment methods. To achieve an overall EPA ‘distinction,’ the apprentice 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.

Work based project with presentation and questioning Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio Overall Grading
Fail Any grade Fail
Any grade Fail Fail
Pass Pass Pass
Pass Distinction Pass
Distinction Pass Pass
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 2 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 3 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
  • undertake 20% off-the-job training as arranged by the employer and training provider
  • understand the purpose and importance of EPA
  • undertake the EPA including meeting all gateway requirements

 

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 a minimum of 20% off-the-job training to be undertaken by the apprentice 
  • decide when the apprentice is working at or above the level required by the occupational standard and so is ready for EPA
  • ensure that all supporting evidence required at the gateway is submitted in accordance with this EPA plan
  • remain independent from the delivery of the EPA
  • 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 appropriate opportunity for the apprentice to meet the KSBs
  • ensure the apprentice is well prepared for the EPA
  • require 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 appropriate opportunity for the KSBs to be met
  • 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 daily 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 all necessary contractual arrangements, including agreeing the price of the EPA
  • develop and produce assessment materials including specifications and marking materials (for example mark schemes, practice materials, training material)
  • appoint suitably qualified and competent independent assessors and oversee their working
  • appoint administrators (and invigilators where required) to administer the EPA as appropriate
  • provide training for independent assessors in terms of good assessment practice, operating the assessment tools and grading
  • provide adequate information, advice and guidance documentation to enable apprentices, employers and training providers to prepare for the EPA
  • arrange for the EPA to take place, in consultation with the employer
  • where the apprentice is not assessed in the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary
  • develop and provide appropriate assessment recording documentation to ensure a clear and auditable process is in place for providing assessment decisions and feedback to all relevant stakeholders
  • have no direct connection with the apprentice, their employer or training provider; in all instances, including when the EPAO is the training provider for example, a HEI), there must be no conflict of interest
  • have policies and procedures for internal quality assurance (IQA), and maintain records of regular and robust IQA activity and moderation for external quality assurance (EQA) purposes
  • deliver induction training for independent assessors, and for invigilators and/or markers (where used)
  • undertake standardisation activity on this apprenticeship for all independent assessors before they conduct an EPA for the first time, if the EPA is updated and periodically as appropriate (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 being assessed
  • use language in the development and delivery of the EPA that is appropriate to the level of the occupational standard

Pre-gateway, the EPAO must: 

  • make all necessary contractual arrangements, including agreeing the price of the EPA
  • provide adequate information, advice and guidance documentation to enable the apprentice, employers and training provider to prepare for the EPA
  • arrange for the EPA to take place, in consultation with the employer

At the gateway, the EPAO must: 

  • confirm all gateway requirements have been met as quickly as possible

Post-gateway, EPAOs must: 

  • where the apprentice is not assessed in the workplace, ensure that the apprentice has access to the required resources and liaise with the employer to agree this if necessary.

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 subject matter
  • 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, including when the EPAO is the training provider for example HEI
  • attend induction training
  • attend standardisation events when they begin working for the EPAO, before they conduct an EPA for the first time and a minimum of annually on this apprenticeship 
  • assess each assessment method, as determined by the EPA plan, and without extending the EPA unnecessarily
  • assess against the KSBs assigned to each assessment method, as shown in the mapping of KSBs to assessment methods and as determined by the EPAO, and without extending the EPA unnecessarily
  • make all grading decisions
  • record and report all 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 should:

  • work with the employer and support the apprentice during the off-the-job training to provide the opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours as listed in the occupational standard
  • conduct training covering any knowledge, skill or behaviour requirement 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. Where the training provider is the EPAO for example HEI, there must be procedures in place to mitigate against any conflict of interest

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 6 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 can be assessed for alignment with the Chartered Trading Standards Institute for Chartered Trading Standards Practitioner Membership



Mapping of KSBs to assessment methods

Knowledge Assessment methods
K1

Regulatory and legislative framework and technical application of relevant Acts, Regulations and Guidance in the consumer protection environment.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K2

Powers or remit to carry out monitoring of activities to ensure consumer protection and the investigative processes to achieve compliance, including test purchasing and surveillance.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K3

Principles and rules of collecting evidence for monitoring, investigations and enforcement purposes including seizure and detention powers, formal sampling procedures and exhibit referencing.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K4

Risk assessment methodologies and approaches to evaluate harm and planned interventions.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K5

Software tools used to analyse, interpret, and evaluate intelligence to inform judgements and enable decision making.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K6

Communication techniques and approaches to interact with a range of key internal and external stakeholders, including using current and emerging technologies to support communication.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K7

Rules of evidence, disclosure, procedure, and professional standards for presenting or defending cases in both the Criminal and Civil Courts.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K8

Decision making techniques and approaches that protect against reputational harm of the organisation.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K9

Operational standards and processes to promote consumer protection.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K10

Social inclusion and ethical practices and their importance in the organisation.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K11

Principles of environmental sustainability and its impact on organisation behaviours.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K12

Project management principles and how they are applied to consumer protection.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K13

Partnership working and the benefits of collaboration in advice, enforcement, and compliance.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K14

Role of trading standards practitioners and how it adds value, ensuring consumers and legitimate businesses are protected and thrive.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K15

How consumer protection is impacted by external factors affecting businesses and regulators.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K16

Drivers that deliver support to the organisation, business community and consumers.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K17

How to support the continuous development requirements and training and learning needs of the team.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K18

Approaches to strategic planning for their organisations such as horizon scanning, intelligence, and governance arrangements.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K19

Techniques for the production and implementation of plans against targets, performance indicators and budgets.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K20

Current and emerging technologies to adopt processes that better protect consumers and businesses.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
K21

Safeguarding vulnerable consumers.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K22

Resource management and allocation.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K23

Best practice and guidance as applied in the consumer protection sector.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
K24

Organisation structure, governance and controls and roles of key stakeholders.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
Skill Assessment methods
S1

Lead and manage investigations and interventions.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S2

Apply investigative techniques and evidence gathering to produce reports with recommendations.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S3

Analyse, interpret, challenge, and evaluate data and intelligence.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S4

Interpret and apply relevant Acts, Regulations, Codes of Practice and Guidance in the consumer protection environment.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S5

Influence, negotiate and challenge stakeholders in the delivery and decision-making process.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S6

Use research, analytical and problem-solving techniques to resolve and prevent consumer protection issues.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S7

Conduct and/or respond to formal interviews in line with legal controls and best practice collaborating with legal representatives.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S8

Gather evidence for use for potential legal proceedings and acting as a witness when required.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S9

Make legal and tactical decisions to improve the outcomes in consumer protection investigations.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S10

Promote the improvement of compliance standards in consumer protection.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S11

Promote social inclusion in the workplace with businesses, stakeholders, and consumers.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S12

Promote environmental sustainability and support change to improve the environment.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S13

Lead and manage operational projects to achieve time dependent outcomes.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S14

Communicate complex information, best practice, and guidance in consumer protection, adapting delivery for different audiences.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S15

Collaborate with stakeholders to achieve agreed collective outcomes.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S16

Identify and apply industry developments to achieve continual service improvement.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S17

Lead the development and monitoring of financial strategies and setting of organisational budgets based on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) or similar, and challenge financial assumptions underpinning strategies.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S18

Build constructive working relationships across teams.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S19

Identify the training and development requirements of the team and stakeholders.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S20

Set strategic direction through the implementation of plans.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S21

Lead and respond to risks using risk management techniques.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
S22

Provide support, specialist advice, and guidance for businesses, consumers, and stakeholders.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
S23

Act as an advocate for projects and transformation of services across organisational boundaries such as those impacted by sustainability and the UK Net Carbon Zero.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
Behaviour Assessment methods
B1

Role models ethical behaviour and practices.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
B2

Works flexibly and adapts to circumstances.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
B3

Seek learning and continuous professional development opportunities for self and wider team.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
B4

Takes responsibility, shows initiative, and is organised.

Back to Grading
Work based project with presentation and questioning
B5

Take personal accountability aligned to clear values.

Back to Grading
Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio

Mapping of KSBs to grade themes

Work based project with presentation and questioning - Project

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Investigation and evidence gathering
K2 K13
S1 S2

Powers or remit to carry out monitoring of activities to ensure consumer protection and the investigative processes to achieve compliance, including test purchasing and surveillance. (K2)

Partnership working and the benefits of collaboration in advice, enforcement, and compliance. (K13)

Lead and manage investigations and interventions. (S1)

Apply investigative techniques and evidence gathering to produce reports with recommendations. (S2)

N/A

Data analysis, intelligence and risk management
K4 K5
S3 S6 S21

Risk assessment methodologies and approaches to evaluate harm and planned interventions. (K4)

Software tools used to analyse, interpret, and evaluate intelligence to inform judgements and enable decision making. (K5)

Analyse, interpret, challenge, and evaluate data and intelligence. (S3)

Use research, analytical and problem-solving techniques to resolve and prevent consumer protection issues. (S6)

Lead and respond to risks using risk management techniques. (S21)

N/A

Business and strategy
K19
S20

Techniques for the production and implementation of plans against targets, performance indicators and budgets. (K19)

Set strategic direction through the implementation of plans. (S20)

N/A

Communication and decision making
K6
S14
B4

Communication techniques and approaches to interact with a range of key internal and external stakeholders, including using current and emerging technologies to support communication. (K6)

Communicate complex information, best practice, and guidance in consumer protection, adapting delivery for different audiences. (S14)

Takes responsibility, shows initiative, and is organised. (B4)

Project and change management
K12
S10 S12 S13
B2

Project management principles and how they are applied to consumer protection. (K12)

Promote the improvement of compliance standards in consumer protection. (S10)

Promote environmental sustainability and support change to improve the environment. (S12)

Lead and manage operational projects to achieve time dependent outcomes. (S13)

Works flexibly and adapts to circumstances. (B2)

Consumer protection
K15 K20

How consumer protection is impacted by external factors affecting businesses and regulators. (K15)

Current and emerging technologies to adopt processes that better protect consumers and businesses. (K20)

N/A

N/A

Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio - Discussion

KSBS GROUPED BY THEME Knowledge Skills Behaviour
Regulation and legislation
K1 K9
S4

Regulatory and legislative framework and technical application of relevant Acts, Regulations and Guidance in the consumer protection environment. (K1)

Operational standards and processes to promote consumer protection. (K9)

Interpret and apply relevant Acts, Regulations, Codes of Practice and Guidance in the consumer protection environment. (S4)

N/A

Investigation and evidence gathering
K3 K7
S7 S8 S15

Principles and rules of collecting evidence for monitoring, investigations and enforcement purposes including seizure and detention powers, formal sampling procedures and exhibit referencing. (K3)

Rules of evidence, disclosure, procedure, and professional standards for presenting or defending cases in both the Criminal and Civil Courts. (K7)

Conduct and/or respond to formal interviews in line with legal controls and best practice collaborating with legal representatives. (S7)

Gather evidence for use for potential legal proceedings and acting as a witness when required. (S8)

Collaborate with stakeholders to achieve agreed collective outcomes. (S15)

N/A

Business and strategy
K16 K18
S16 S17

Drivers that deliver support to the organisation, business community and consumers. (K16)

Approaches to strategic planning for their organisations such as horizon scanning, intelligence, and governance arrangements. (K18)

Identify and apply industry developments to achieve continual service improvement. (S16)

Lead the development and monitoring of financial strategies and setting of organisational budgets based on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) or similar, and challenge financial assumptions underpinning strategies. (S17)

N/A

Communication and decision making
K8
S5 S9
B5

Decision making techniques and approaches that protect against reputational harm of the organisation. (K8)

Influence, negotiate and challenge stakeholders in the delivery and decision-making process. (S5)

Make legal and tactical decisions to improve the outcomes in consumer protection investigations. (S9)

Take personal accountability aligned to clear values. (B5)

Leadership and management
K17 K22 K24
S18 S19
B3

How to support the continuous development requirements and training and learning needs of the team. (K17)

Resource management and allocation. (K22)

Organisation structure, governance and controls and roles of key stakeholders. (K24)

Build constructive working relationships across teams. (S18)

Identify the training and development requirements of the team and stakeholders. (S19)

Seek learning and continuous professional development opportunities for self and wider team. (B3)

Environment and sustainability
K10 K11
S11 S23
B1

Social inclusion and ethical practices and their importance in the organisation. (K10)

Principles of environmental sustainability and its impact on organisation behaviours. (K11)

Promote social inclusion in the workplace with businesses, stakeholders, and consumers. (S11)

Act as an advocate for projects and transformation of services across organisational boundaries such as those impacted by sustainability and the UK Net Carbon Zero. (S23)

Role models ethical behaviour and practices. (B1)

Consumer protection
K14 K21 K23
S22

Role of trading standards practitioners and how it adds value, ensuring consumers and legitimate businesses are protected and thrive. (K14)

Safeguarding vulnerable consumers. (K21)

Best practice and guidance as applied in the consumer protection sector. (K23)

Provide support, specialist advice, and guidance for businesses, consumers, and stakeholders. (S22)

N/A

Find an apprenticeship

Contact us about this apprenticeship

Employers involved in creating the standard: East Sussex County Council Trading Standards, Lincolnshire County Council, Norfolk County Council, Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay Trading Standards Service, Hammersmith & Fulham Council, Suffolk County Council, North Yorkshire County Council, Bracknell Forest, West Berkshire and Wokingham Regulatory Services, Oxfordshire County Council, Kent County Council, TESCO PLC, Waitrose PLC, Trading Standards South East Ltd

Version log

Version Change detail Earliest start date Latest start date Latest end date
1.0 Approved for delivery 09/11/2022 Not set Not set

Is this page useful?

Tell us about your visit

Help us improve our website