Retailer Apprenticeship - Level 2

Each apprenticeship programme will have its own set of entry requirements. You should understand these before making an application. Individual prior attainment will always be carefully considered when planning an apprenticeship programme.

You will need to be aged 16 years and over to be eligible for an apprenticeship programme. As this is a work-based qualification you must be employed in a relevent role and have a contract of employment to cover the duration of the apprenticeship programme. Here at West Nottinghamshire College we have a recruitment team that can help you to find the right opportunity. Call the main college number and ask for the apprenticeship team to find out how we could help you.

As an applicant, you will undertake assessment in both maths and English prior to enrolment to ascertain current working levels which will aid the creation of an individual learning plan towards achieving maths and English at level 2 if not already achieved.

If you have passed maths and English GCSE or equivalent you will be required to evidence this with certificates which may result in exemption from undertaking the maths and English functional skill qualification within the apprenticeship framework. Please note that as an apprentice you are required to demonstrate ongoing improvement in both maths and English even if you are exempt from the tested element.

In the UK, apprentices are assessed through a combination of on-programme assessment and a final Apprenticeship Assessment (formerly called the EPA). Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect:

1. On-Programme Assessment (During Your Apprenticeship)
   Throughout your apprenticeship you will complete ongoing assessments to show you’re developing the required knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs). These may include:

• Workplace observations
• Your assessor or tutor may watch you carry out tasks in your normal job role.
• Assignments or written tasks
• Some apprenticeships require reports, reflective journals or knowledge-based tasks.
• Professional discussions
• A structured conversation with an assessor about what you’ve learned and how you apply it.
• Portfolio of evidence
• You’ll collect proof of your competence—such as work products, photos, witness statements, or project work.
• Training reviews
• Regular progress reviews with you, your employer and your training provider.
  These activities help build your confidence and prepare you for the final assessment.

2. Gateway
When you, your employer and training provider all agree that you’re ready—and you’ve met all mandatory requirements (e.g., maths/English qualifications if needed)—you’ll pass through Gateway.
This simply means you are ready to sit the Apprenticeship Assessment.

3. Apprenticeship Assessment (AA)
The Apprenticeship Assessment is carried out by an independent assessment organisation and varies depending on your apprenticeship standard. It may include:

• Practical observation
• Demonstrating real work tasks or scenarios.
• Knowledge test
• A multiple-choice or written exam.
• Professional discussion
• A conversation with an independent assessor exploring your role, competence and experience.
• Project or assignment
• Some apprenticeships require a work-based project followed by an interview.
• Portfolio-based interview
• Your portfolio supports the discussion but is not assessed on its own.
• You will receive a grade—usually Pass, Merit or Distinction, depending on the standard. You should remember that, upon taking your apprenticeship assessment, it is possible at this stage to achieve a Fail grade. If this happens, you will be offered the opportunity to retake the failed element.

4. Completion
Once you pass your Apprenticeship Assessment, you will be awarded:
Your apprenticeship certificate
Any industry qualifications linked to your standard (mandatory elements)

Following the successful completion of this apprenticeship there is the opportunity for further development using other apprenticeship standards, depending on how your role has evolved and the potential to work towards career progression opportunities.