Paraplanner L4

Facilitation of Assessment

DSW has always had a ‘digital by default’ approach to end-point assessment; this allows us to provide greater flexibility for all stakeholders while reducing fees and our carbon footprint.

• Interviews and presentations are conducted using web conferencing platforms and we’re flexible enough to use a platform of the employer’s choosing when required.
• Written exams, MCQs and Case Studies are carried out online using an invigilated assessment platform
• Portfolios and Projects are submitted to DSW in digital format for assessment
• Our assessments are also administered using an online platform, epaPRO, which provides training providers with access to results, reports and dashboards.

This is all supported by named account managers and operations contacts who are here to support you at each step of the EPA journey.

Assessment Methods

Portfolio of Evidence    

• Portfolio gathered during the last 6 months of the on-programme phase.
• Submitted after gateway
• A showcase, displaying the best work-based examples of how the apprentice has demonstrated the learning outcomes

Reflective Discussion    

• The reflective discussion will last for 60 minutes
• Explores the content of the portfolio and the apprentice’s learner journey
• Will consist of 16 questions

For more details, visit the IfATE website.

Grading

There are three levels of outcomes for this standard – fail, pass and distinction.

Each learning outcome has its own descriptor detailing how to achieve a pass. Some learning outcomes also include a descriptor detailing how to achieve a distinction. Individual learning outcomes are graded as fail, pass, or (where applicable) distinction.  

The grading in this apprenticeship is cumulative and therefore the individual assessment methods are not graded.

In order for the apprentice to progress to the Reflective Discussion 30 learning outcomes must be seen at pass level in the portfolio. The learning outcomes which are not met within the portfolio must be met in the Reflective Discussion.

To achieve a pass, the apprentice must provide evidence of meeting the pass criteria for all learning outcomes within the standard between the two assessment methods.

In order to achieve a distinction, in addition to the pass, the apprentice must evidence at least two distinction criteria in each of the five skills and behaviours areas in the standard.

The knowledge competencies are each considered as pass or fail, with no distinction differentiator.

Benefits and Support

DSW is a leading EPAO trusted by some of the UK’s largest employers and apprenticeship training providers to assess apprentices across a portfolio of more than 35 standards.

We combine first-class customer support, leading assessment technology and assessment expertise to deliver an EPA experience which our clients tell us is unequalled.

Benefits include:

• Assessor allocated ahead of gateway to guarantee availability and fast turnaround
• Planning meeting scheduled within 1 working day of Gateway
• Results issued within 5 working days
• Competitive pricing, reduced resit fees and no registration fees
• Dedicated account manager and operations contact
• Quality-assured assessors with extensive sector and assessment experience
• Truly collaborative, partnership approach and dedicated DSW human touch support team
• Delivery of a great learner experience with flexibility to accommodate varied learner environments
• Support materials – Guides, toolkits, webinars and use of digital platforms make EPA efficient and easy
• Engaged with other EPAOs and sector bodies to lead the standardisation of assessment methods and raise professional standards