Apprenticeship assessment reform

Apprenticeship assessment reform

Apprenticeship assessment reform is changing the landscape for providers, employers and assessment organisations alike. As delivery models evolve, providers are asking an important question: what level of support is right for us?

At SFJ Awards, we recognise that readiness looks different for every organisation. Some providers want to take a more active role in assessment delivery and build that capability internally. Others want the reassurance of a fully managed service that allows them to focus entirely on teaching, learning and employer relationships.

That’s why we’ve developed a two-tiered approach built around flexibility, collaboration and trust.

Colleagues smiling in an office envrionment

Introducing SFJ Awards Connect and SFJ Awards Complete

Whether you want a more collaborative, hands-on approach or a fully managed assessment service, our models are designed to give providers more choice in how assessment is delivered.

Connect

A collaborative delivery model designed for providers who want to take a more active role in assessment delivery:

  1. Supports active partnership
  2. Greater flexibility and control
  3. Opportunity to build internal assessment capability
  4. SFJ Awards oversight and quality assurance
  5. Scalable around your delivery model
  6. Flexible approach while maintaining compliance and quality

Complete

A fully managed service for providers who want simplicity and assurance:

  1. Fully managed delivery model
  2. Reduced admin and coordination
  3. End-to-end assessment management
  4. SFJ Awards-led quality assurance
  5. Streamlined and consistent approach
  6. Provides confidence and stability during reform transition

Our approach to apprenticeship reform is not about forcing every organisation into the same model. It is about creating assessment approaches that are flexible, robust and fit for the future.

Whether providers are looking to build internal assessment capability or want a trusted partner to manage delivery in full, SFJ Awards offers a model that adapts to their needs – without compromising on quality, compliance or occupational relevance.

What’s changing?

  • Shorter duration

    For new starts from 1 August 2025, the minimum duration of any apprenticeship standard has been reduced to 8 months (down from 12 months).

    However, the apprenticeship standard specification or assessment plan may require this practical period of training to be longer, to support the delivery of the full apprenticeship content.

  • English and maths requirements
    • 16-18 year olds: Must present evidence of achievement at Gateway.
    • 19+ apprentices: Providers must supply evidence of attempt, but achievement is not required for completion of the apprenticeship.
  • New terminology

    To align with the revised approach, the following terminology changes have been introduced:

    • Apprenticeship assessment replaces End-Point Assessment (EPA)
    • Assessment organisation replaces EPA Organisation (EPAO)
    • Gateway to Completion replaces Gateway.
  • Flexible assessment timing

    The new principles allow for more flexible assessment timing.

    Elements of the apprenticeship assessment can occur on-programme, such as assessments during work-based projects, not just at the end.

    This may allow elements of the assessment to be completed before Gateway to Completion.

Find out more

To find out more, get in touch with our team.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name*
Receive marketing emails
Please tick 'Yes' if you would like to receive marketing communications regarding our products, services, and events. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the difference between SFJ Awards Connect and SFJ Awards complete?

    SFJ Awards Connect is a collaborative model that allows providers to take a more active role in assessment delivery, supported by SFJ Awards’ oversight and quality assurance.

    SFJ Awards Complete is a fully managed service where SFJ Awards handles end-to-end assessment delivery, reducing administration and providing a more streamlined, hands-off approach for providers.

  • How do we decide which model is right for our organisation?

    The right model depends on your internal capability, capacity and strategic goals. If you’re looking to build in-house assessment expertise and maintain greater control, Connect may be the best fit. If you prefer to focus on teaching and employer engagement while outsourcing delivery, Complete offers a fully managed service.

  • Will both models meet regulatory and quality requirements?

    Yes. Both Connect and Complete are designed to fully meet regulatory standards and maintain high levels of quality and compliance. SFJ Awards providers robust oversight, quality assurance and support to ensure consistency and occupational relevance across both models.

  • Can we move between Connect and Complete as our needs change?

    Yes. Our flexible approach means you can adapt your model as your organisation evolves. Whether you’re building internal capability over time or need more support during periods of change, we work with you to transition between models where appropriate.

  • How will SFJ Awards support us during apprenticeship assessment reform?

    SFJ Awards provides guidance, expertise and tailored support throughout the reform process. Whether you choose Connect or Complete, we work collaboratively with you to ensure a smooth transition, minimise disruption and help you deliver high-quality assessments with confidence.