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: 1st for EPA 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 1st for EPA 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 …
Christmas 2025 Closure Dates and 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 …
Financial wellbeing – building for the future
What is Financial Wellbeing? Good financial wellbeing means being in control of your finances, both now and in the future. It’s about how much your financial situation and money choices provide you with security and freedom of choice. In other words, it’s about knowing that you can pay the bills today, deal with unexpected events, …
Foundation Apprenticeship Assessment Launched
From 1 August 2025, 1st for EPA is approved to deliver assessments for two new Foundation Apprenticeships in the digital sector: Hardware, Network and Infrastructure (FA0004) Software and Data (FA0005) These Level 2 apprenticeships provide an accessible route into the technology workforce and help learners build the knowledge and experience needed to progress to Level …
Provider-Delivered Apprenticeship Assessment: What It Means and How to Prepare
The 2025 Apprenticeship Assessment Principles announced significant changes to end point assessment (EPA). Skills England are currently planning and implementing these changes, with Ofqual expanding its regulatory framework to ensure assessments remain valid and reliable. Key changes include: Published assessment plans will be simplified, containing only high-level information and Assessment Outcomes which apprentices must demonstrate. …
Launch of Machine Learning Apprenticeship to be Industry Game Changer
The world is on the cusp of an AI revolution, and the new Machine Learning Engineer Level 6 apprenticeship is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of the tech industry. This apprenticeship is now available for new starts, and it could be key to putting apprenticeships front and centre stage when …
