The key areas to look at when preparing for your EPA
Healthcare science assistant (ST0218):
- achievement of L1 English and L1 mathematics qualifications and test taken for L2 English and mathematics prior to taking the end point assessment (not required to pass at L2)
- achievement of the L2 Diploma in Healthcare Science
- satisfactory evidence, usually recorded in a portfolio, demonstrating that the apprentice has achieved the skills, knowledge and behaviours set out in the Standard
- some evidence that the apprentice has developed an insight into their personal and professional development as shown by the reflective self-assessment following the MSF exercises
Healthcare Science Associate Apprenticeship (ST0220):
- achievement of L2 English and L2 mathematics qualifications
- achievement of the Level 4 Diploma in Healthcare Science
- evidence, usually recorded, for example in a log or portfolio and signed off by the employer or nominated training provider demonstrating that the apprentice has achieved the skills, knowledge and behaviours set out in the Standard
- evidence that the apprentice has developed an insight into their personal and professional
- development as shown by the reflective self-assessment following the MSF exercises
Healthcare Science Practitioner (Degree) (ST0413):
- level 2 functional skills in English and Mathematics
- a record or portfolio of evidence that documents the assessments and tasks completed to demonstrates that the skills, knowledge and behaviours set out in the Standard have been achieved
- achievement of the BSc (Hons) degree as specified in the standards requirements
Gain experience
Make sure you have plenty of experience completing a range of assessments based on your standard. You can check what methods will be included in your EPA and base your experience on this. Your training provider and employer may be able to help you.
Track your progress through your portfolio
You can track your progress through your portfolio and review and reflect on evidence you produce. Employers can also track learners’ progression throughout the course, ensuring that you are not scheduled to sit the EPA before you’re ready. With a well structured and referenced portfolio, you’ll also have clear evidence of learning and a full audit trail available at any time. The portfolio will be used to form some of the assessments to check you have meet your skills, knowledge and behaviours.
Collaboration is key
The EPA really is a group effort. The employer and training provider must work together to ensure their apprentice is really to take the EPA – only then should they be putting you forward for the assessments.