An Independent Assessor plays a crucial role in Endpoint Assessment (EPA) within apprenticeship programs. Their primary responsibility is to objectively evaluate whether an apprentice has met the required standards and competencies of the assessment plan.

The Associate Independent Assessor is a self-employed role, working on behalf of EAL in the delivery of its Endpoint Assessment in England. This could be remotely via a Teams meeting, or this could be on-site through face-to-face delivery. This role is under IR35.

Key Responsibilities of an Independent Assessor:

1. Conducting Objective Assessments
   • Assess apprentices against the set apprenticeship standards in accordance with EAL’s assessment policies.
   • Ensure evaluations are fair, reliable, and consistent, reflecting EAL’s commitment to quality and integrity.
2. Reviewing Assessment Methods
   • Carry out assessment activities including practical observations, professional discussions, written tests, and portfolio reviews as outlined in the assessment plan.
   • Ensure all assessments are conducted in line with regulatory requirements and EAL’s internal assessment procedures.
3. Providing Unbiased Judgments
   • Maintain independence from the apprentice’s employer and training provider throughout the assessment process.
   • Adhere to EAL’s conflict of interest policy to uphold integrity, impartiality, and transparency.
4. Grading Performance
   • Assign pass, fail, or distinction grades based on objective performance evidence.
   • Provide clear, evidence-based justifications for grading decisions, in line with EAL’s grading criteria and quality expectations.
5. Ensuring Compliance with Standards
   • Follow the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) guidelines and the EPAO’s assessment plan.
   • Comply with EAL’s internal standards, quality assurance processes, and operational procedures to ensure consistency and regulatory alignment.
6. Providing Constructive Feedback
   • Deliver balanced feedback on strengths and areas for improvement, in accordance with EAL’s feedback framework.
   • Support apprentices' development and career progression while maintaining professional and ethical standards.
7. Maintaining Professional Competence
   • Take responsibility for keeping core skills and occupational knowledge up to date.
   • Engage in regular Continuing Professional Development (CPD) as required by regulatory standards and the expectations outlined in apprenticeship assessment plans.
   • Ensure personal development aligns with EAL’s commitment to excellence, professional integrity, and sector relevance.
8. Demonstrating EAL Values and Behaviours
   • Uphold EAL’s core values of integrity, excellence, and accountability in all assessment activities.
   • Act in accordance with EAL’s behavioural expectations, including professionalism, respect, and continuous improvement.

What skills are required for this role?

• Strong subject matter expertise
• Excellent analytical and decision-making skills
• Impartial and ethical approach
• Effective communication and feedback skills
• Familiarity with Ofqual, IfATE, and other regulatory bodies

About EAL

EAL offers regulated vocational qualifications in the sectors of Building Services Engineering (BSE), Engineering, Manufacturing, Aerospace, Automotive, Rail and Automation at a range of recognised levels set within the requirements of the regulatory framework within the United Kingdom.

EAL has a long tradition of working closely with employers, further education, and subject matter experts to implement qualification frameworks that feature clear progression routes to employment and further study.

The delivery of an Endpoint Assessment service to EAL’s customers, employers and education providers sits at the heart of the support and provision of excellent EAL for the UK industry and ensures learners are occupational skilled, and competent at the end of their apprenticeship.

Limitations

The individual must complete and submit a Conflict-of-Interest declaration form to outline any potential conflicts. EAL will review and put in place measures to mitigate.

 Compensation

There is an annual completion payment to be paid on completion of all contracted work. Contracted days will be paid at a fixed rate.