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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
1st for EPA Triumphs at The Great British Entrepreneur Awards
Helen Shinner, Founder of 1st for EPA, has been awarded Service Industries Entrepreneur of the Year for the North East at The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards. Recognised annually as one of the most prestigious accolades in the entrepreneurial world, The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards received over 5,000 applications this year alone. …
1st for EPA is a Certified B Corp
Our End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) has become a Certified B Corp. What is B Corp Certification? B Corp Certification is a designation that shows a business is meeting high standards of performance, accountability, and transparency. This is verified, using factors from employee benefits and charitable giving to supply chain practices and input materials. To …
Digital Standards now live
1st for Awarding has launched a full range of end point assessment (EPA) for Digital standards. We’re offering end point assessment for more standards in the digital route than ever before, along with our signature support and guidance. 15 digital standards now live – you can see the full list of standards we assess here.
How can Providers and Employers bridge the Digital Skills Gap?
This article was originally published in August 2024 and was correct at the time of publication. With the new government recently announcing the launch of Skills England, a body tasked with transforming opportunities and driving growth, what does this mean for the digital skills gap and apprenticeships? Digital Europe reports that over 60% of EU enterprises …
1st for EPA owner named Entrepreneur to Watch
1st for EPA’s owner has been named in a new 100 Female Entrepreneurs to Watch list. The list, created by The Telegraph and NatWest, celebrates female entrepreneurship in the UK. It recognises women in business who are pushing boundaries, redefining success and inspiring others. Helen Shinner, owner of 1st for EPA, has been commended in …
We’re part of the Neuro-inclusion Charter
We’re pleased to announce that 1st for Awarding is now part of the Cognassist Neuro-inclusion Charter. The Charter shows a list of inclusive EPAOs. To gain a place on the Charter, EPAOs must have staff attend relevant training to be more aware of different learning styles and abilities, to allow us to recognise these and …
1st for EPA Crowned Best New Business
Wow, what a fantastic night we had! 1st for EPA were crowned winners of Best New Services Business and the big award, Best New Business, at the Tees New Business Awards 2022. Sometimes you need to pause and reflect on how far you’ve come. Last night, 10 November, was the ideal time for …
