Why are specialist End Point Assessment Organisations a better solution for your apprentices?

End Point Assessment Excellence: The Good2Go Awards Advantage 

Every successful apprenticeship journey deserves an outstanding End Point Assessment. At Good2Go Awards, we don’t just assess – we partner in your success through unparalleled quality standards and support.

  • Setting the Quality Benchmark in End Point Assessment
     
    We’re proud to stand apart from other EPAOs through our distinctive accreditations 
    • The ONLY EPAO with Matrix Standard accreditation 
    • ISO 90012015 certified quality management system 
    • Over 90% first-time pass rate 
  • 100% RESIT PASS RATE
     
    Real Results, Real Testimonials 
     
    “The flexibility and support from Good2Go Awards has been invaluable for us,” shares NA College. This isn’t just a one-off comment. NESGTA reports, “We couldn’t believe the difference in service compared to our last EPAO. The detailed feedback helps us develop our training for the apprentice journey and prepare them for their assessment.” 
     
    Quality-Assured Assessment Process 
     
    Our comprehensive quality framework ensures consistent excellence 
    • Monthly reviews by our Quality Director 
    • Regular standardisation meetings 
    • Continuous improvement cycles 
    • ISO9001 Quality Management System ensures full tracking and a standard approach to all of our services 
     
    The Matrix Standard Difference 
     
    As the only EPAO holding Matrix Standard accreditation, we deliver 
    • Professional Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) 
    • Evidence-based assessment approaches 
    • Continuous service improvement 
    • Client-centred support systems 
     
    Your Success Is Our Priority 
     
    We’ve revolutionised the End Point Assessment process through; 
     
    1. Responsive Service 
    • Instant assessment date confirmation 
    • Flexible booking system 
    • 72-hour fee-free cancellation policy 
    • No waiting for EPA availability 
     
    2. Financial Clarity 
    Learn about our risk-free approach to EPA payments

(https//good2goawards.org.uk/good2go-awards-a-transparent-risk-free-approach-to-epa-payments/) 


• Zero upfront costs 
• Single post-assessment invoice 
• Market-leading competitive rates 
• No hidden admin or service charges 
 
Comprehensive Assessment Support 
 
Our support package includes 
 
For Apprentices 
• Step-by-step assessment guides 
• Clear distinction-level criteria 
• Structured portfolio mapping guidance 
• Confidence-building resources 
 
For Trainers 
• Detailed KSB mapping tools 
• Practice assessment frameworks 
• Portfolio review guidelines 
• Monthly industry updates 
 
The Power of Comprehensive Feedback 
 
Unlike many EPAOs who provide minimal feedback, we deliver comprehensive assessment insights that drive continuous improvement.

Learn why detailed EPA feedback is essential for apprenticeship success (https//good2goawards.org.uk/why-feedback-on-end-point-assessments-is-essential-for-success/).

Our feedback includes 
• Detailed assessment breakdowns 
• Specific teaching points 
• Curriculum alignment suggestions 
• KSB achievement analysis 
 
Every assessment includes 
• Written feedback within 5 working days 
• Practical improvement strategies 
• Teaching recommendations 
• Future development pathways 
 
Expert Assessment Team 
 
Our distinctive approach includes 
• Directly employed assessors 
• Industry-active professionals 
• Consistent assessment standards 
• Regular standardisation 
 
Standards We Excel In 
 
We focus on delivering excellence in 
• Lean Manufacturing Operative (L2) 
• Engineering Operative (L2) 
• Team Leader (L3) 
• Quality Practitioner (L4) 
• Associate Project Manager (L4) 
 
Making the Switch Simple 
 
Our streamlined onboarding process includes 
1. Initial Teams consultation 
2. Custom toolkit provision 
3. Staff training support 
4. ACE360 system setup 
5. Ongoing partnership development 
 
Take Action Today 
 
Partner with an EPAO that sets the quality standard. Good2Go Awards delivers 
• Superior pass rates 
• Matrix Standard excellence 
• Comprehensive support 
• Real industry expertise

Are You Ready to Take the Lead in Projects?

The Associate Project Manager Level 4 apprenticeship is your gateway to mastering the art of project management in diverse industries like retail, IT, construction, government, and more. This 18-month program equips aspiring professionals with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours to make a meaningful impact on their organisations.

Why Choose This Apprenticeship?

🔹 Gain Real-World Skills Learn to manage resources, monitor project objectives, engage stakeholders, and apply tools like risk management and quality assurance to ensure successful outcomes.

🔹 Work Across Dynamic Industries From constructing motorways to implementing IT systems, this program prepares you to handle projects of all shapes and sizes.

🔹 Build a Solid Career Foundation Typical roles include Assistant Project Manager, Junior Project Manager, or Project Support, with opportunities for career growth into senior roles.

🔹 Develop Key Capabilities

  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Adapt plans to meet evolving project demands.
  • Deliver projects that align with sustainability and inclusion goals.

Key Details

📅 Duration: 18 months to gateway, with a 5-month EPA period.  💼 Funding: Up to £7,000.  🎓 Progression: Aligns with the Association for Project Management (APM) for professional membership.

This apprenticeship isn’t just about learning—it’s about doing. You’ll gain hands-on experience while applying best practices in a variety of real-world settings. Whether you’re looking to upskill your team or start your career in project management, the Associate Project Manager apprenticeship is a step in the right direction.

There are over 110 training providers throughout the UK who deliver this apprenticeship, on site, online or a blend of the two.

👉 Start your journey today and join the professionals shaping the future of project delivery!

For more details, contact us directly on 07904 292385.

Unlocking Efficiency with Lean Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeships 

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, businesses are constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain a competitive edge. The Lean Manufacturing Operative apprenticeship is a game-changing solution, equipping employees with the tools and mindset needed to address these challenges head-on. 

 Why Lean Manufacturing Matters 

Manufacturing businesses often grapple with common inefficiencies, including waste, overburden, and poor problem-solving practices. Lean methodologies focus on eliminating these inefficiencies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and driving measurable results. A Lean Manufacturing Operative apprenticeship brings these principles to life, enabling apprentices to become valuable contributors to their workplaces. 

 Core Benefits of the Apprenticeship 

1. Real-World Application of Lean Tools 

The apprenticeship provides hands-on training in essential Lean tools, such as: 

– Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Identifying the underlying causes of recurring problems. 

– 4S and 5S: Organising workspaces for efficiency and safety. 

– Kaizen: Continuous improvement through small, incremental changes. 

– Standard Work: Establishing consistent processes to minimise variation. 

– Practical Problem Solving (PPS): Structured approaches to tackle operational issues. 

– Poka Yoke: Error-proofing processes to prevent mistakes. 

These tools empower apprentices to drive improvements in their workplaces, from eliminating unnecessary steps to enhancing communication across departments. 

2. Workplace Improvement Projects 

At the heart of the apprenticeship is a workplace-based improvement project. Apprentices apply their Lean knowledge to a real problem, demonstrating their ability to: 

– Analyse processes. 

– Implement changes that reduce waste and inefficiency. 

– Deliver measurable benefits to the organisation. 

This practical approach ensures the training is not only theoretical but also directly impacts business outcomes. 

3. Developing a Problem-Solving Mindset 

Lean is more than just tools—it’s a mindset. Apprentices learn to approach challenges with curiosity and a commitment to finding sustainable solutions. This problem-solving culture boosts morale and productivity, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire organisation. 

 Addressing Common Manufacturing Challenges 

Reducing Waste and Inefficiency: Lean tools help apprentices identify and remove non-value-adding activities, reducing costs and improving productivity. 

Fostering Standardisation: Apprentices learn to establish and maintain standard processes, ensuring consistency and quality in operations. 

Building Team Collaboration: Lean training promotes open communication, helping teams work together more effectively to solve problems and achieve goals. 

 Why Invest in Lean Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeships? 

For businesses, the benefits are clear: 

– Enhanced Operational Efficiency: Apprentices bring fresh insights and practical solutions to the table. 

– Improved Employee Retention: Investing in training demonstrates a commitment to staff development, boosting morale and loyalty. 

– Competitive Advantage: Lean-trained employees help businesses stay ahead in a competitive market. 

For apprentices, the program offers: 

– Valuable Skills Development: Training in sought-after Lean tools and techniques. 

– Career Progression Opportunities: Building a strong foundation for future roles in manufacturing and operations. 

– Personal Growth: Gaining confidence in problem-solving and decision-making. 

Start Your Lean Journey Today 

The Lean Manufacturing Operative apprenticeship is more than just training; it’s a pathway to transforming the way businesses and employees approach challenges. By embedding Lean principles into everyday operations, organisations can unlock their potential and achieve long-term success. 

There are many great providers out there that deliver this apprenticeship, it is a very practical and hands on training programme. We work with a lot of LMO providers and would be happy to talk to you about your requirements and suggest suitable training providers who can help you achieve your goals. 

If you’re ready to embrace Lean and empower your workforce, get in touch to learn how this apprenticeship can benefit your business. 

Revolutionise Efficiency with Transformative Lean Manufacturing Apprenticeships 

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, businesses strive to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and maintain a competitive edge. The Lean Manufacturing Operative apprenticeship equips employees with the tools and mindset to tackle these challenges head-on. 

Why Lean Manufacturing Matters 

Manufacturing businesses often face inefficiencies such as waste, overburden, and poor problem-solving practices. Lean methodologies eliminate these inefficiencies, foster continuous improvement, and deliver measurable results. By enrolling apprentices in Lean Manufacturing Operative programs, businesses empower their teams to become valuable contributors. 

Core Benefits of the Apprenticeship 

1. Apply Lean Tools in Real-World Settings 

The apprenticeship delivers hands-on training in essential Lean tools, including: 

  • Root Cause Analysis (RCA): Pinpoint and address recurring problems. 
  • 4S and 5S: Organize workspaces for maximum efficiency and safety. 
  • Kaizen: Drive continuous improvement through small, actionable changes. 
  • Standard Work: Create consistent processes to reduce variation. 
  • Practical Problem Solving (PPS): Use structured methods to resolve operational challenges. 
  • Poka Yoke: Introduce error-proofing measures to prevent mistakes. 

These tools enable apprentices to streamline operations, eliminate unnecessary steps, and improve communication across departments. 

2. Lead Workplace Improvement Projects 

Apprentices lead workplace-based improvement projects where they: 

  • Analyze processes. 
  • Implement changes that cut waste and inefficiency. 
  • Deliver measurable benefits to the business. 

This practical approach ensures the training directly impacts real-world operations. 

3. Build a Problem-Solving Mindset 

Lean is more than tools—it’s a mindset. Apprentices develop curiosity and a commitment to finding sustainable solutions. This culture of problem-solving raises morale, boosts productivity, and creates positive ripple effects across the organization. 

Addressing Common Manufacturing Challenges 

  • Eliminating Waste and Inefficiency: Apprentices identify and remove non-value-adding activities, cutting costs and enhancing productivity. 
  • Driving Standardization: They establish and maintain consistent processes, ensuring quality and operational stability. 
  • Fostering Collaboration: Lean training encourages open communication and teamwork, enabling groups to solve problems and achieve shared goals. 

Why Invest in Lean Manufacturing Operative Apprenticeships? 

For Businesses: 

  • Boost Efficiency: Apprentices bring fresh perspectives and practical solutions to everyday challenges. 
  • Retain Talent: Training investments demonstrate a commitment to staff development, strengthening morale and loyalty. 
  • Gain a Competitive Edge: Lean-trained employees keep your business ahead in a crowded market. 

For Apprentices: 

  • Develop Valuable Skills: Learn sought-after Lean tools and techniques. 
  • Advance Careers: Build a strong foundation for future roles in manufacturing and operations. 
  • Grow Personally: Gain confidence in solving problems and making decisions. 

Start Your Lean Journey Today 

The Lean Manufacturing Operative apprenticeship transforms how businesses and employees tackle challenges. By embedding Lean principles into daily operations, organizations unlock their potential and achieve lasting success. 

Many outstanding providers offer this hands-on, practical program. We collaborate with several LMO providers and are happy to discuss your requirements and recommend training partners who can help you reach your goals. 

If you’re ready to embrace Lean and empower your workforce, contact us today to explore how this apprenticeship can benefit your business. 

Good2Go Awards Launches Associate Project Manager Level 4 EPA

At Good2Go Awards, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our End Point Assessment (EPA) service for the Associate Project Manager Level 4 apprenticeship. This marks another step forward in our mission to provide accessible, fair, and high-quality assessment solutions for training providers, colleges, and apprentices across the UK.

What Does the EPA for Associate Project Manager Level 4 Include?

The Associate Project Manager apprenticeship is designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) to deliver successful projects in diverse industries. To achieve their qualification, apprentices must complete a rigorous EPA that evaluates their competencies against the apprenticeship standard. Our EPA process includes the following components:

1. Project Proposal, Presentation, and Q&A (50%)

Apprentices will develop a comprehensive project proposal based on a real or hypothetical scenario. This task tests their ability to:

– Plan and manage a project lifecycle.

– Apply tools and techniques for risk management, budgeting, and resource allocation.

– Demonstrate communication and leadership skills through their proposal and presentation.

Following the presentation, apprentices will participate in a Q&A session with the assessor, giving them the opportunity to showcase their in-depth understanding of project management practices.

2. Professional Discussion Underpinned by a Portfolio (50%)

The professional discussion allows apprentices to reflect on their learning journey and demonstrate how they’ve applied their knowledge and skills in the workplace. This is supported by a portfolio of evidence that includes:

– Examples of project documentation, such as schedules, risk assessments, and communication plans.

– Records of feedback, lessons learned, and personal development.

Our assessors engage apprentices in a structured, conversational assessment to ensure they articulate their experiences confidently and effectively.

Why Choose Good2Go Awards for Your EPA?

At Good2Go Awards, we’re more than just an EPAO. We’re partners in your success, offering a unique blend of affordability, expertise, and unparalleled customer service. Here’s why training providers and colleges consistently choose us:

1. No Hidden Costs and Flexible Policies

We keep things simple with transparent pricing—no deposits, hidden fees, or surprises. Changes to EPA dates or pathways are free up to 48 hours before the assessment. This flexibility supports training providers managing unpredictable schedules.

2. Fast-Track Booking

We guarantee assessment bookings within four weeks, ensuring apprentices stay on track without unnecessary delays.

3. Expert Assessors

Our assessors are industry specialists who stay up-to-date with the latest project management practices. They ensure every apprentice has a fair and robust assessment experience.

4. Comprehensive Support

From the moment you engage with Good2Go Awards, you’ll benefit from dedicated account managers, detailed toolkits, and tailored guidance. Our resources map every KSB in the standard, helping apprentices prepare effectively and confidently.

5. Focus on Feedback

We understand the value of actionable feedback. Our detailed assessment reports help training providers refine their curriculum and enable apprentices to develop professionally.

A Winning Combination for Training Providers and Apprentices

Our Associate Project Manager Level 4 EPA is designed to be straightforward and supportive, reflecting the real-world demands of project management. By choosing Good2Go Awards, training providers and employers can trust that their apprentices will be assessed rigorously yet fairly, ensuring they’re ready to excel in their careers.

If you’re ready to take your apprentices to the next level with Good2Go Awards, contact us today to book your first EPA. Let’s shape the future of project management together! At Good2Go Awards, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our End Point Assessment (EPA) service for the Associate Project Manager Level 4 apprenticeship. This marks another step forward in our mission to provide accessible, fair, and high-quality assessment solutions for training providers, colleges, and apprentices across the UK.

What Does the EPA for Associate Project Manager Level 4 Include?

The Associate Project Manager apprenticeship is designed to equip learners with the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) to deliver successful projects in diverse industries. To achieve their qualification, apprentices must complete a rigorous EPA that evaluates their competencies against the apprenticeship standard. Our EPA process includes the following components:

1. Project Proposal, Presentation, and Q&A (50%)

Apprentices will develop a comprehensive project proposal based on a real or hypothetical scenario. This task tests their ability to:

– Plan and manage a project lifecycle.

– Apply tools and techniques for risk management, budgeting, and resource allocation.

– Demonstrate communication and leadership skills through their proposal and presentation.

Following the presentation, apprentices will participate in a Q&A session with the assessor, giving them the opportunity to showcase their in-depth understanding of project management practices.

2. Professional Discussion Underpinned by a Portfolio (50%)

The professional discussion allows apprentices to reflect on their learning journey and demonstrate how they’ve applied their knowledge and skills in the workplace. This is supported by a portfolio of evidence that includes:

– Examples of project documentation, such as schedules, risk assessments, and communication plans.

– Records of feedback, lessons learned, and personal development.

Our assessors engage apprentices in a structured, conversational assessment to ensure they articulate their experiences confidently and effectively.

Why Choose Good2Go Awards for Your EPA?

At Good2Go Awards, we’re more than just an EPAO. We’re partners in your success, offering a unique blend of affordability, expertise, and unparalleled customer service. Here’s why training providers and colleges consistently choose us:

1. No Hidden Costs and Flexible Policies

We keep things simple with transparent pricing—no deposits, hidden fees, or surprises. Changes to EPA dates or pathways are free up to 48 hours before the assessment. This flexibility supports training providers managing unpredictable schedules.

2. Fast-Track Booking

We guarantee assessment bookings within four weeks, ensuring apprentices stay on track without unnecessary delays.

3. Expert Assessors

Our assessors are industry specialists who stay up-to-date with the latest project management practices. They ensure every apprentice has a fair and robust assessment experience.

4. Comprehensive Support

From the moment you engage with Good2Go Awards, you’ll benefit from dedicated account managers, detailed toolkits, and tailored guidance. Our resources map every KSB in the standard, helping apprentices prepare effectively and confidently.

5. Focus on Feedback

We understand the value of actionable feedback. Our detailed assessment reports help training providers refine their curriculum and enable apprentices to develop professionally.

A Winning Combination for Training Providers and Apprentices

Our Associate Project Manager Level 4 EPA is designed to be straightforward and supportive, reflecting the real-world demands of project management. By choosing Good2Go Awards, training providers and employers can trust that their apprentices will be assessed rigorously yet fairly, ensuring they’re ready to excel in their careers.

If you’re ready to take your apprentices to the next level with Good2Go Awards, contact us today to book your first EPA. Let’s shape the future of project management together!

Good2Go Awards: A Transparent, Risk-Free Approach to EPA Payments 

At Good2Go Awards, we believe that understanding the needs of our customers is key to providing exceptional service. We work closely with training providers and employers to understand their challenges and tailor our services to meet their expectations. One of the most significant issues we’ve identified is the financial burden that upfront payments for EPAs can place on training providers and colleges. We’ve developed a solution that not only removes this burden but also helps ensure better cash flow for our clients. 

The Problem with Upfront Payments 

Many EPAOs require upfront payments before the EPA is conducted. This money is taken from the training provider’s On Program Payments and is not recoverable until well after the assessment has been completed and reported back to the Department for Education (DfE). This delay can severely impact the cash flow of training providers, leaving cohorts with financial gaps that can take months to recover from. 

Worse yet, if an apprentice withdraws before the EPA takes place, any deposit paid is often non-refundable. This results in a financial loss for the training provider or college, making upfront payments a risky and costly practice. 

Good2Go Awards’ Solution: Invoicing After the EPA 

At Good2Go Awards, we take a different approach. We charge just one fee, and it’s only invoiced after the EPA has taken place. This means no upfront deposits, no financial risk if an apprentice withdraws, and no impact on your cash flow while waiting for the completion payment from the DfE. 

This system gives training providers the opportunity to secure the 20% completion payment from the DfE before our invoice becomes due, easing financial pressure and allowing for better planning and resource allocation. 

No Hidden Fees for Pathway Changes or Appeals 

We know how dynamic apprenticeship programs can be, which is why we don’t charge any administration fees for changes to apprenticeship pathways. If your apprentice needs to switch pathways, we accommodate that without adding extra costs. Similarly, if there is a need to appeal an assessment result, we handle that thoroughly without charging you for the appeal process. 

Flexible and Fair Cancellation Policy 

Our cancellation policy is designed to give you flexibility. If you need to change the date of an EPA, you can do so up to 48 hours before the assessment with no cost at all. After that, we charge only for the Assessor’s time. If the EPA is cancelled on the day of the assessment and the Assessor is already on site, we will also charge for mileage in addition to their time. This approach ensures fairness while covering the necessary costs involved. 

Cost-Effective and Fair Pricing 

We are proud to offer a cost-effective service based on our actual costs, rather than adjusting our prices to match the apprenticeship funding bands. While some EPAOs raise their fees when the funding bands increase, we don’t. A clear example of this is the Engineering Operative apprenticeship. When the funding was increased from £6,000 to £10,000, many EPAOs hiked their prices—but we didn’t. Our prices remain fair, ensuring that training providers keep more funds available to enrich the apprenticeship experience. 

A Win for Apprentices, Employers, and Training Providers 

By keeping our pricing fair and avoiding the need for upfront payments, we ensure more of your budget can be invested in delivering high-quality training. This benefits everyone: apprentices enjoy a more enriched learning experience, employers receive better-prepared employees, and training providers can operate without the financial strain of upfront, non-refundable deposits. 

At Good2Go Awards, we’ve designed our payment structure with your needs in mind. By offering a transparent, post-EPA invoicing system, no-fee pathway changes, and a fair cancellation policy, we remove the financial risks associated with upfront deposits and provide a cost-effective solution that supports both the apprenticeship journey and your organisation’s financial health. 

Tunnelling Apprenticeship Challenges and Solutions with Help from DfE

Here at Good2Go Awards we have been busy doing the day to day activity of supporting employers, training providers, colleges and apprentices through to the end of their apprenticeship journey.

Some amazing things happened to us recently and I felt we should share one example with the wider market to show you just how far End Point Assessment Organisations can go.

Qualitrain have been delivering the Tunnelling Operative level 2 apprenticeship for a few years now, the most recent cohort were 4 months away from completing when the EPAO who was going to do the EPAs ceased trading.

What on earth can we do now??

None of the EPAO’s approached by DfE were able to support this apprenticeship as the EPA process was complex, subject matter experts were hard to find and the volumes were not high.

After several conversations we started talking to the Senior Assessment and Assurance Manager responsible for this sector from DfE and we found that the only way it was going to work to ensure the apprentices were not disadvantaged through long delays was for us to work on special dispensation to allow us to complete the EPA’s for these apprentices.

With the help of Russell Mason, Tunnelling trainer extraordinaire, TunnelSkills and DfE we achieved the impossible of starting to develop the EPA process in late May to actually completing and after external moderation from DfE being able to confirm the results to the apprentices and their employers in September.

All 19 of the apprentices have had their results and are moving into full time roles with their respective employers.

We at Good2Go Awards would like to thank the apprentices for their patience, the employers for their understanding and DfE for facilitating this. Russell and Abi from J3M Construction Training and Sam from TunnelSkills for their help and support in getting this over the line with minimal disruption to the apprentices. The development team at Good2Go were challenged to achieve this in record time and Alan & Kay have done an unbelievable job to pull it all together.

In external moderation none of the results were changed which showed our teams ability to build a robust and easy to follow set of processes which stood the highest test from DfE.

We pride ourselves in our diligence and our flexibility but this one was a real stretch to get over the line.

Onwards and upwards as they say…

Why Feedback on End Point Assessments is Essential

Why is detailed feedback vital for training providers and apprentices?

Feedback is a crucial component of the End Point Assessment process, yet it’s often overlooked. At Good2Go Awards, we believe that providing detailed and constructive feedback is one of the most valuable services we can offer to training providers, colleges, apprentices, and employers alike. Here’s why feedback is not just beneficial, but essential.

Supporting Curriculum Development and Lesson Planning

For training providers, receiving detailed feedback on assessments offers a window into the effectiveness of their curriculum. By understanding how apprentices perform on specific elements of the assessment, trainers can identify gaps or areas where the curriculum may need to be adjusted. This feedback enables educators to fine-tune lesson plans to better meet the needs of future apprentices, ensuring continuous improvement in the quality of training.

Transparency for Apprentices and Employers

Feedback helps apprentices and their employers understand the reasoning behind the score that was allocated. Whether it’s a Pass, Merit, or Distinction, knowing exactly how the apprentice performed in each area of the assessment provides clarity. Employers can also use this insight to track the progress of their apprentices and align it with the needs of their business. Without feedback, it’s difficult for anyone to fully grasp why an apprentice earned a specific grade or what they can do to improve in the future.

Trainers Gain Insight into the Assessment Process

At Good2Go Awards, trainers are welcome to attend the Observation and Professional Discussion sessions on the understanding they are not a participant in the process. This allows them to see firsthand how their apprentices respond to the assessment criteria. Trainers not only gain a deeper understanding of the assessment structure, but they also learn what skills and knowledge are emphasised. This insight can help trainers better prepare future apprentices and ensure they are targeting the right competencies in their teaching.

Personal and Professional Development for Apprentices

For apprentices, feedback isn’t just about improving their technical skills—it’s about developing as individuals. By understanding their performance, apprentices can gain valuable self-awareness and insight into areas of personal growth. Whether they need to improve their communication skills, leadership abilities, or technical knowledge, feedback provides a roadmap for how they can develop not only as employees but also as well-rounded professionals.

Feedback: The Key to Continuous Improvement

Without feedback, how can anyone know what to improve? Feedback is the foundation for growth and improvement. Whether an apprentice received a Pass when a Distinction was expected or underperformed in a specific area, the only way to move forward is by knowing what went wrong and why. With comprehensive feedback, all stakeholders can have informed, constructive conversations about performance and the steps needed to improve. This dialogue is crucial for refining training programs and ensuring apprentices are better prepared for success in the future.

In conclusion, feedback is not an optional extra—it’s a vital tool for ensuring success. At Good2Go Awards, we are committed to providing full and detailed feedback on every End Point Assessment, empowering training providers, apprentices, and employers to continually improve and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Why use Good 2 Go Awards, what makes us stand out in the End Point Assessment industry

At Good2Go Awards, we believe that understanding the needs of our customers is key to providing exceptional service. We work closely with many training providers and employers to better understand their challenges and tailor our services to meet their expectations. One of the most significant issues we’ve identified is the financial burden that upfront payments for End Point Assessments (EPAs) can place on training providers and colleges. We’ve developed a solution that not only removes this burden but also helps ensure better cash flow for our clients.

The Problem with Upfront Payments

Many End Point Assessment Organizations (EPAOs) require upfront payments before the EPA is conducted. This money is taken from the training provider’s On Program Payments and is often not recoverable until well after the assessment has been completed and reported back to the Department for Education (DfE). This delay can severely impact the cash flow of training providers, leaving cohorts with financial gaps that can take months to recover from.

Worse yet, if an apprentice withdraws before the EPA takes place, any deposit paid is often non-refundable. This results in a financial loss for the training provider or college, making upfront payments a risky and costly practice.

Good2Go Awards’ Solution: Invoicing After the EPA

At Good2Go Awards, we take a different approach. We charge just one fee, and it’s only invoiced after the EPA has taken place. This means no upfront deposits, no financial risk if an apprentice withdraws, and no impact on your cash flow while waiting for the completion payment from the DfE.

This system gives training providers the opportunity to secure the 20% completion payment from the DfE before our invoice becomes due, easing financial pressure and allowing for better planning and resource allocation.

No Hidden Fees for Pathway Changes or Appeals

We know how dynamic apprenticeship programs can be, which is why we don’t charge any administration fees for changes to apprenticeship pathways. If your apprentice needs to switch pathways, we accommodate that without adding extra costs. Similarly, if there is a need to appeal an assessment result, we handle that thoroughly without charging you for the appeal process.

Flexible and Fair Cancellation Policy

Our cancellation policy is designed to give you flexibility. If you need to change the date of an EPA, you can do so up to 48 hours before the assessment with no cost at all. After that, we charge only for the Assessor’s time. If the EPA is cancelled on the day of the assessment and the Assessor is already on site, we will also charge for mileage in addition to their time. This approach ensures fairness while covering the necessary costs involved.

Cost-Effective and Fair Pricing

We are proud to offer a cost-effective service based on our actual costs, rather than adjusting our prices to match the apprenticeship funding bands. While some EPAOs raise their fees when the funding bands increase, we don’t. A clear example of this is the Engineering Operative apprenticeship. When the funding was increased from £6,000 to £10,000, many EPAOs hiked their prices—but we didn’t. Our prices remain fair, ensuring that training providers keep more funds available to enrich the apprenticeship experience.

A Win for Apprentices, Employers, and Training Providers

By keeping our pricing fair and avoiding the need for upfront payments, Good2Go Awards ensures that more of your budget can be invested in delivering high-quality training. This benefits everyone: apprentices enjoy a more enriched learning experience, employers receive better-prepared employees, and training providers can operate without the financial strain of upfront, non-refundable deposits.

At Good2Go Awards, we’ve designed our payment structure with your needs in mind. By offering a transparent, post-EPA invoicing system, no-fee pathway changes, and a fair cancellation policy, we remove the financial risks associated with upfront deposits and provide a cost-effective solution that supports both the apprenticeship journey and your organization’s financial health.

Mastering End Point Assessments: Your Path to EPA Success

Are you a training provider dedicated to nurturing the future workforce through apprenticeships? We understand the challenges you face when preparing for End Point Assessment, from complicated booking systems to a lack of support. That’s where Good2Go can transform your EPA experience.

Our mission is to provide simple, dedicated, and effective End Point Assessments that give you confidence in the process.

How do we achieve this?

1. **Dedicated Account Manager:** Our personalised approach ensures you have a dedicated ally throughout the process, ready to address your unique needs.

2. **Transparent Pricing:** We believe in competitive pricing that respects your budget while maintaining high-quality services.

3. **Empowering Toolkits:** Equip training providers with toolkits designed to be used with the learner to prepare them for success.

4. **Open Communication:** We bridge the communication gap by engaging employers, training providers, and learners where necessary in a collaborative journey.

Our values of Respect, Support, Honesty, Integrity, Inspiration, and Loyalty underscore every interaction and decision. Through our partnership, your End Point Assessment process will thrive and improve, benefiting both training provider and learners.

At Good2Go, we’re not just an End Point Assessment Organisation; we’re your partners in apprenticeship excellence. Join us on this journey to redefine success in apprenticeships.

Choosing the right End Point Assessment Organisation

What to look for when choosing your End Point Assessment Organisation

Choosing the right End Point Assessment Organisation is a crucial decision for any organisation looking to ensure the successful completion of apprenticeship programs. Understanding the role of these organisations, considering key factors in the selection process, and evaluating their suitability are essential steps in making an informed choice.

This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to choose your EPAO, outlining important considerations, best practices for research and evaluation, and strategies for establishing a successful partnership. By following these guidelines, stakeholders can navigate the complexities of selecting the most suitable EPAO for their specific needs and requirements.

Understanding the Role of the EPAO Definition and Purpose of End Point Assessment

End Point Assessment is the final part of any apprenticeship – it’s where apprentices prove they’ve mastered the necessary skills for their specific job role. The EPAO is like the impartial judge who ensures the apprentice is indeed ready to conquer the challenges of the working world.

Importance of the EPAO

Choosing the right EPAO is crucial because they hold the key to unlocking the apprentice’s career potential. They provide the regulated and objective evaluation needed to determine if the apprentice is truly job-ready.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an EPAO Industry Relevance and Expertise

You wouldn’t want a sushi chef to judge your skills in making aircraft parts, would you? Make sure the EPAO has experience and knowledge specific to your industry or apprenticeship standard to ensure a high quality assessment.

Range of Services Offered

Supporting documentation to help the trainer and the apprentice understand what the EPA process is so they can best prepare for it.

Some providers will engage with your apprentices and even the training staff before the assessment to ensure great awareness of the processes that take place on the assessment

Researching and Evaluating Potential EPAO’s Identifying Potential EPAO’s

It’s a like choosing any other vital service for your business – take time to explore different options, read reviews and testimonials, and consider recommendations from peers

Gathering Information and Reviewing Documentation

Don’t skip the fine print! Dive into the details of what each organisation offers, how they operate, and what their assessment process looks like. It’s like reading the instructions before assembling that IKEA bookshelf – tedious but necessary.

Ensuring Understanding and Competence with the Subject Assessor Skills and Knowledge

Just like how you’d want your doctor to have a medical degree, ensure that the actual assessor has experience and qualifications in the subject area of the apprenticeship, just like you did with your training provider. Their experience helps the process to run smoothly and allows them to get the best out of your apprentices.

Support Systems

Navigating different processes and bespoke platforms to book your EPA and upload your documentation can sometimes feel like trying to figure out a complicated board game rulebook. Make sure the organisation has easy to follow steps to manage your assessments

Is the EPAO Specialist or Generalist

Does the EPAO have an area of speciality which means they will likely be experts in this area or are they generalists which means they will likely be using sub-contractors (Associates) to do their assessments. Sub-contractors can be problematic as they have other customers so can have limited availability for booking assessments for your apprentices.

Remember, choosing the right EPAO is like picking the perfect supporter for your apprenticeship journey – it can make all the difference between a smooth ending and a frustrating and sometimes expensive one.

Assessing the Quality and Reputation of EPAO

When it comes to choosing an EPAO, it’s ideal if you can gauge their quality and reputation. Here’s how you can do that: Reviews and Testimonials Think of this as your EPAO version of Google or TripAdvisor. Reviews and testimonials are like the word-of-mouth that tells you if an EPAO walks the talk. Look for authentic feedback from other users to get a sense of what working with them might be like.

A lot of EPAO’s have testimonials on their websites for potential customers to review.

Cost and Value Considerations

Money talks, but it shouldn’t be the only conversation you’re having when choosing an EPAO. Here’s how to balance cost and value: Fee Structures and Payment Terms No one likes surprises, especially when it comes to costs. Understand the fee structures and payment terms of different EPAOs to see which one aligns best with your budget and financial planning.

Some EPAO’s have minimum volumes, up-front payments, administrative charges for amendments, long cancellation terms and other terms that need exploring.

Cost is a key element as the less the EPAO charges the more money the training company has left to add value in the apprenticeship programme.

While budget matters, don’t let it overshadow quality and services. Sometimes, paying a bit more can lead to better outcomes and a smoother assessment process. Balance is key!

Engaging with Stakeholders and Seeking Recommendations

Just like asking friends for restaurant recommendations, involving stakeholders and peers can help you make an informed decision when choosing an EPAO:

Making the Final Decision and Establishing a Partnership with the Chosen EPAO

You’ve done your homework, now it’s time to seal the deal with your chosen provider:

Negotiating Terms and Finalising Agreements

Negotiate is vital to iron out the terms and finalise agreements that work for both parties. Clear communication and mutual understanding are key to a successful partnership.

Onboarding and Communication with the Chosen Organisation

Once you’ve made your choice, smooth onboarding and ongoing communication are crucial. Building a strong relationship with your EPAO from the get-go sets the stage for a successful assessment journey. In conclusion, selecting the right EPAO is a critical aspect of the apprenticeship process.

By considering factors such as industry relevance, speed, reputation, and cost, organisations can make a well-informed decision that aligns with their requirements.

What are some Key Factors to Consider when Comparing Different EPAO’s

Are they subject matter experts?

Fast response times, can they give you a service level on lead times?

Do they have toolkits to support the assessment processes?

Do they take money up front or before the EPA is conducted, can I afford that?

Do they have minimum volume commitments with penalties for non compliance?

Do they provide feedback on all assessments, pass or fail?

Does the EPAO inform me of booked and rebooked Assessments ?

Can they provide you with a dedicated contact person?

Will they engage with trainers or curriculum teams to evaluate the training material to ensure it matches the assessment criteria?

What is their cost? This is an area of flexibility for the EPAO with only a few apprenticeship standards having a value ascribed to the EPA. Some providers charge the maximum of 20% and others are more structured. This information should be available on the website of each EPAO as required by Ofqual.