• epaPRO becomes Proficient

    As the apprenticeship landscape evolves, so too must the systems that support it. To reflect these changes, epaPRO is now known as Proficient. This change aligns with the transition taking place across the sector, where the term End-Point Assessment (EPA) is moving towards the broader term of Apprenticeship Assessment. 1st for Awarding want to ensure

  • Case Study: Leah, Multi-Channel Marketer Apprentice

    Name: Leah Cordall Training Provider: VelocityCompany: Wakefield Hospice Apprenticeship standard: Level 3 Multi-Channel MarketerResult: Distinction Which apprenticeship did you do and why did you choose it? Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer. I chose this apprenticeship because I have a strong interest in design and content creation. After doing some research into different career paths, I discovered that marketing

  • Case Study: Isabella, Multi-Channel Marketer Apprentice

    Name: Isabella Price Training Provider: Velocity Company: JCB Apprenticeship standard: Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer Result: Distinction Which apprenticeship did you do and why did you choose it? Level 3 Multi-Channel Marketer Apprenticeship – I chose this apprenticeship as I have always had an interest in marketing, since high school, and wanted to explore this more

  • Learning, Leading and Levelling Up: Tanya’s Apprenticeship Journey

    Today, we’re sharing a case study with a twist! One of our very own team members, Tanya Hill, completed an apprenticeship alongside her role here at 1st for Awarding. While her apprenticeship wasn’t completed through us, we wanted to hear from Tanya about her experience, how she prepared for her EPA, and any tips she

  • 1st for EPA Company Changes

    Assessment is evolving, and so are we. The assessment reforms will phase in a more flexible assessment model, known as apprenticeship assessment. This term will eventually replace the term ‘end point assessment’ for new starts. In line with these changes and to ensure we’re best positioned for our growth plans, we have taken the decision to

  • PODCAST: 1st for EPA On Air Ep11: Centres

    This video was created under our previous name, 1st for EPA. Episode 11: Centres With apprenticeship assessment on the horizon, many training providers are exploring becoming a Centre – that is, taking an active role in the delivery or marking of assessments. In this podcast, Owen and John explore what it means to become a

  • Leadership with a Latte: Meet Our Managing Director, Helen Shinner

    Ever wondered who’s steering the ship at 1st for EPA, keeping our strategy sharp, our standards high, and somehow still making every Zoom meeting with a smile? It’s time to step behind the scenes and meet the powerhouse leading our team: Helen Shinner, our Managing Director. From navigating the evolving world of End Point Assessment

  • PODCAST: On Air Ep10: Foundation Apprenticeships

    This video was created under our previous name, 1st for EPA. Episode 10: Foundation Apprenticeships Owen and John discuss foundation apprenticeships, including the launch of Hardware and Software apprenticeships. They cover key considerations for management, including: The new terminology we see in foundation apprenticeships, including assessment outcomes and performance descriptors. Curriculum design and how to

  • PODCAST: Supporting Apprentice Wellbeing

    This video was created under our previous name, 1st for EPA. The team is back with a special edition of our podcast, 1st for EPA On Air. Whether you want to learn about the EPA landscape, see the faces behind the names, or just find out what everyone’s favourite biscuit is, our EPA podcast has

  • Christmas 2025 Closure & Effect on EPA Deadlines

    In preparation for the 2025 Christmas holiday period, we would like to clarify our opening times and the effects of holidays on apprentices’ deadlines and submission dates. 1st for EPA will be only be closed on bank holidays, which are: Thursday 25th December 2025 Friday 26th December 2025 Thursday 1st January 2026 This means our office

  • Mindful Moves: Elevate your day with simple mindfulness exercises

    Embarking on the journey of an apprenticeship is a great way to kickstart your career – but navigating the stressful word of learning and working comes with its fair share of challenges. You are not just employees, but students too, and maintaining your wellbeing is key to your success. Let’s explore some fun and effective

  • PODCAST: 1st for EPA On Air Ep9: Assessment Reforms

    This video was created under our previous name, 1st for EPA. Episode 9: Assessment Reforms We’re back with more podcasts, starting with a deep dive into assessment reforms. Join Owen and John as they discuss what the changes to assessment mean for apprentices and providers. They explore how providers can keep apprentices at the heart

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