level 2 apprenticeships

Level 2 – Stairlift, Platform Lift, Service Lift Electromechanic

by
Lift apprenticeship

Are you someone who is hands on and the idea of installation and maintenance of stairlifts, lifting platform and service lift electro mechanics seems interesting to you? If so, read on to find out how the Level 2 in Stairlift, Platform Lift, Service Lift Electromechanic can help start your career and broaden your knowledge. You can also speak to your current employer if you wish to complete your apprenticeship training with them!

Lift apprenticeship

Entry Requirements

In order to be eligible for this apprenticeship:

  • Typically an apprentice might be expected to have already achieved two GCSEs or level 2 equivalent, in English and a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subject.
  • For level 2 apprenticeships, the candidate needs to achieve level 1 English and maths and take the test for level 2 prior to taking their end-point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the apprenticeships English and Maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 and British Sign Language qualification are an alternative to English qualifications for whom this is their primary language.

Success in this apprenticeship

In order to be successful in this apprenticeship, the apprentice will follow the Core Knowledge and Skills, and one of the Options given in Table 1. Training will be undertaken on all Core elements and on elements in the Option chosen by the apprentice.

The options available are:

Option 1 – Stairlift Installation

Option 2 – Stairlift Service and Repair

Option 3 – Lifting Platform Installation

Option 4 – Lifting Platform Service and Repair

Option 5 –  Service Lift Installation

Option 6 –  Service Lift Service and Repair

The core knowledge, skills and behavior of the apprentice

Health, Safety and Environment – The apprentice will need to adhere to the health and safety rules, ensure PPE is worn and understands risk asssessment. They are then able to implement risk control measures.

Mechanical Stairlift, Lifting Platform and Service Lift Technology – The apprentice has a good use of tools and measuring instrumentation and fault‐finding techniques for mechanical equipment.

Electrical and Electronic Technology – The apprentice can follow the principles and operation of electrical and electronic control systems.  The use of tools and measuring instrumentation and fault‐finding processes for electrical/ electronic systems. They can use electrical and electronic measuring tools, to carry out fault diagnosis using a range of approved methods. Be able to wire a system as per the electrical wiring schematic.

Find apprenticeship training providers that deliver this standard
Where can I get more information regarding this apprenticeship?

Send an email to info@apprenticetips.com
or visit this website here: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/stairlift-platform-lift-service-lift-electromechanic-v1-0

Status: Approved for delivery
Level: 2

Reference: ST0251
Version: 1.0
Date updated: 18/01/2022
Approved for delivery: 19 March 2020
Route: Engineering and manufacturing
Typical duration to gateway : 24 months (this does not include EPA period)
Maximum funding: £11000
Options: Stairlift Installation, Stairlift Service & Repair, Lifting Platform Installation, Lifting Platform Service & Repair, Service Lift Installation, Service Lift Service & Repair
LARS Code: 549
EQA Provider: Ofqual

Port Operative Apprenticeships

by
Image is of an apprentice woman in training to become a forklift driver.
Young Woman in training to become a forklift driver.

Looking for a job where you can learn while you earn? Consider level 2 Port Operative apprenticeships for a new career. Visit ApprenticeTips.com if you’re interested in other roles.

Port Operative Apprenticeships

A Port Operative Apprenticeship is a great way to enter the transport and logistics industry. Typically, the course lasts around 12-18 months, and, during this time, you will be provided with hands-on experience whilst learning about the industry. Once you have completed the course, you will be awarded a Level 2 qualification which is equivalent to a GCSE.

This week’s blog at Apprentice Tips focuses on Port Operative Apprenticeships. Contact us via LinkedIn for more information or if you have any questions.

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements for Port Operative apprenticeships are determined by the individual employer. This is usually a certain amount of GCSEs or something that is equivalent to them. As this position is very active, it is important for candidates to be in good physical health. It would also be beneficial to have a full driving license, but this is not necessarily a requirement.

Benefits of a Port Operative Apprenticeship

There are so many benefits when it comes to Port Operative apprenticeships such as learning whilst earning. An apprenticeship allows you to get paid for your work whilst you are learning and being trained all at once.

Another benefit is receiving a competitive salary during your apprenticeship. Your employer will determine your wage at the start, and it will increase once you are qualified.

As an apprentice you will have a holiday entitlement of so many days a year, this is decided by your employer. Finally, it provides you with the opportunity to work in a dynamic industry and you will have lots of different challenges and opportunities along the way.

Cargo ship on loading

Activities  

As a Port Operative, you may be involved in many different activities. These could potentially include:

  1. Loading, unloading, handling, and securing cargo
  2. On-shore mooring and vessel handling operations
  3. Passenger operations
  4. Workplace transport operations
  5. Infrastructure operations
  6. Operation of heavy machinery
  7. Warehousing, storage, and retrieval

The main purpose of a port is to maintain a secure environment, and port operators usually work in teams under the supervision of a supervisor. Unsocial hours may be part of the workday, and laboring outside in bad weather is most likely. Shift and weekend work is possible and there could be some requirements for being on call. This is something that you should consider when applying for the apprenticeship.

Roles

The Port Operative’s occupation is broken down into two different roles. Cargo and passenger.

Cargo Operatives load and unload vessels securely and effectively in a variety of locations. They deal with goods such as bread bulk, liquid bulk, dry bulk, RoRo, and containers.

Operatives in the passenger, ferry, and cruise industries load and unload people, their luggage, and vehicles from vessels. They keep an eye on trip documents and support security measures like search and screening.

In case of an emergency, they are responsible for helping passengers. Operatives must provide a high level of customer care as they deal closely with both trade customers and members of the public.

Contact Apprentice Tips

A Port Operative apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity for people who are looking to pursue a career in the maritime industry. For more information about Port Operative Apprenticeships please do not hesitate to contact Apprentice Tips.  Our website can help provide you with all of the up-to-date information you need. The site also offers apprentices a chance to publish online content. If this is something that you would be interested in, please get in touch.

You can find us on Twitter.

Level 2 Passenger Transport Operative Apprenticeship Overview

by
A pair of train tickets used to symbolise the Level 2 Passenger Transport Operative apprenticeship
ApprenticeTips.com logo, with the caption “Information on apprenticeships in the UK”
ApprenticeTips.com: Information on apprenticeships in the UK

Level 2 Passenger Transport Operative Apprenticeship

Do you enjoy helping customers on the front-line of work? Are you resilient in challenging and fast-changing travel situations? If so, a Passenger Transport Operative apprenticeship may be perfect for you!

Passenger Transport Operative salary and career progression

Passenger Transport Operatives can earn roughly £6,000/year during the course of the 12-month apprenticeship. The ability to earn while you learn makes an apprenticeship an ideal fit for school leavers, or those with limited qualifications or experience.

Level 2 English and Maths qualifications are required to complete this apprenticeship, but if you do not have these, there may be the opportunity to achieve these during the course of your apprenticeship.

Employers of this apprenticeship consist of mostly private sector transport companies (trains, buses, trams etc.), though there are also some public sector employers in this field.

This apprenticeship can lead into a variety of roles in the future, with salaries ranging from roughly £18,000 at entry-level to around £50,000 for more senior roles.

Role & Responsibilities

As a Passenger Transport Operative, you will have the opportunity to choose one of three pathways: Ticketing, Dispatch, or Onboard.

Ticketing Operatives will be primarily stationed at a ticket desk, helping passengers organise their journey and purchase the correct tickets, in an impartial manner.

Dispatch Operatives will work at station platforms, receiving, turning around and dispatching vehicles, as well as ensuring safety all around.

Onboard Operatives will be spend most of their time on vehicles, checking tickets and helping passengers. They may or may not travel consistent routes, depending on the employer.

A pair of train tickets used to symbolise the Level 2 Passenger Transport Operative apprenticeship

The core skills that will be taught and assessed

During the course of your work, you will satisfy a selection of core competencies that cover the main skills required to perform well, including:

  • Maintain safe and compliant working practices and travel environments, in accordance with regulation and organisational requirements
  • Recognise and manage inappropriate passenger/public activity to maintain the integrity of the transport service
  • Respond to incidents and emergency situations in line with requirements
  • Identify potential incidents, breaches of security and emergency situations, and take appropriate action to ensure safety
  • Respond to enquiries and complaints in line with expected own organisation requirements

These competencies, and many more, will guide you toward performing well in your role and are an essential part of fulfilling the criteria of the end-point assessment.

Learning and the apprenticeship end-point assessment

You will gain a variety of knowledge throughout your apprenticeship, which will be evidenced prior to the end-point assessment. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Techniques for managing inappropriate passenger/public behaviour
  • Techniques for engaging potentially vulnerable passengers/public
  • The importance of compliance and potential consequences of non-compliance when working in a regulated travel environment
  • Safeguarding principles
  • The principles of identifying and complying with relevant legislation/procedures that impacts the transport environment and its operation

At the end of the apprenticeship, you will prove your following of these competencies through an end-point assessment (EPA). This will include both an observation with questions, and an interview supported by a portfolio of evidence that you have covered all required competencies.

The Bottom Line

The Level 2 Passenger Transport Operative apprenticeship is an excellent way to kickstart a career in the transport industry, with lots of potential for progression. Whether you choose to be a Ticketing, Dispatch or Onboard Operative, your role will include a wide variety of skills to learn and master, and will provide you with lots of useful, transferrable experience and knowledge.

Further detail on the specifics of the apprenticeship can be found in the occupational standard, here.

Details on the end-point assessment can be found here.

Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship

by
A display of eye glasses

Are you an enthusiastic individual who enjoys interacting with people and has an interest in health and science? If so, the Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship could be perfect for you. Read on to find out more about how to start or progress your career within the optical retail industry and help customers find suitable glasses.

What is an Optical Assistant Apprenticeship?

An Optical Assistant Apprenticeship will provide you with a broad range of skills and technical knowledge about spectacle frame materials, fitting requirements, and optical lenses. You will also learn how to use an extensive range of equipment and tools to take measurements, adjust and repair spectacles.

In addition to the comprehensive range of knowledge you will gain, you will also develop a vast range of skills to be able to work within the optical retail industry. Some of these include strong communication, listening skills and a passion for working with others to deliver excellent service and products.

The duration of the apprenticeship typically takes a minimum of 12 months to complete and apprentices without Level 1 English and match will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End Point Assessment as well as sitting Level 2.

Key responsibilities of an Optical Assistant

Alongside the broad range of knowledge and skills requirements mentioned above, there are key responsibilities that apply for all Optical Assistants regardless of whether you work within a small practice, large practice or within the domiciliary environment.

An Optical Assistant is always required to interpret and understand a clinically issued prescription, its effects on the eye, and the customer’s vision. They need to be able to identify the appropriate spectacles to meet the customer’s needs and be able to explain the features and benefits of these, using non-technical and customer friendly language.

It is an Optical Assistant’s responsibility to ensure the maximum comfort of the spectacle frame for the customer, avoiding physical damage to the skin through ill-fitting or the wrong material choice.

An Optical Assistant Apprentice using technical equipment

Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship Competencies

As part of your apprenticeship and job role, you will need to evidence your knowledge, and skills throughout the programme and in the end-point assessment. Some examples of the areas of standard are:

  • Health and safety: Maintaining safe working practices and identifying risks or dangers to self, customers, or colleagues.
  • Materials of frames and lenses: Identifying, explaining, recommending suitable frame and lens materials based on customer needs and requirements.
  • Tools and equipment: Confidently and correctly using a wide range of optical tools and equipment.
  • Quality and governance: Working to the appropriate company quality standards and systems.
  • Screening checks: Clearly explaining screening checks, the reasons they are done and how the machinery works.
  • Customer interactions, dispensing, fitting and adjustment of spectacles: Building rapport and trust with the customer and identifying their communication preferences.

Additionally, you will also be required to demonstrate the following behaviours:

  • Professionalism
  • Self-development
  • Safety orientated

The occupational standard, assessment plan and occupational brief for the Optical Assistant Apprenticeship will provide more detail of these areas of standard and the competencies in more detail. It also outlines the skills, knowledge, and behaviours within the standard and the grading differences between a distinction, pass or fail.

For a more technical overview of this apprenticeship, you can view the full assessment plan here. This document will help you understand what you can do to prepare for the end-point assessment.

Conclusion

As demonstrated, the Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to start or develop their career within the optical retail industry. As well as developing your skillset and technical knowledge, you will also be able to earn while you learn.

If this apprenticeship isn’t quite right for you, take a look at this Level 3 Spectacle Maker Apprenticeship.

SIGN UP TO OUR MAILING LIST

Level 2 Baker Apprenticeship

by
Level 2 Baker Apprenticeship Title Image. ApprenticeTips.com sub-header. Blue text on a white background.

If bringing your love of food into the lives of others sounds like a career you’d like to explore, then a Level 2 Baker apprenticeship might be the route for you. With this apprenticeship, you’ll gain the foundational skills you need to begin a career in the industry. On the other hand, If you are interested in cooking rather than baking, we suggest looking at the Level 2 Commis Chef Apprenticeship. Apprentice Tips will help you find an apprenticeship that’s right for you.

Entry Criteria

As someone who is looking to become an apprentice baker, you must have basic mathematics and English skills (Functional Skills Level 2). You may also be required to pass a workplace suitability assessment before you begin to ensure that you can operate safely in a kitchen.

Key Responsibilities of a Baker Apprentice

Over the course of 18 months, you’ll be problem solving; figuring out how to formulate recipes and learning the correct way to document and label your bakes for compliance purposes. At its core, the general Baker standard requires you to be able to produce consumer safe products in a hygienic environment and with the appropriate labelling. Whilst completing your Level 2 Baker apprenticeship, you will be able to choose from three potential specialisms to be assessed against. These are:

  1. Craft Baker
    • The variety of bakery products you have to produce increases. This could include things like enriched loaves, pastries, or confectionaries. You’ll also be expected to scale your recipes up or down as appropriate and take extra care over the finishing of your products.
  2. Plant Baker (Otherwise known as Processing Plant Baker)
    • Not plant-based baking. This branch is all about the automation of the baking process and working on an industrial scale. Quality and production checks will also make up a large part of your role.
  3. Retail Baker
    • A more customer service-focused role with an emphasis on the displaying of goods and replenishment of stock.
An image of a baker dusting loaves with decoration next to a rolling pin
By Sandi Benedicta on Unsplash

What will the Working Environment Be Like?

Bakers work unsociable hours as a part of their standard shift pattern due to the nature of the work that they do and the service they provide to customers. This is something you should be completely willing to do if you are considering becoming a Baker. You should also expect your work to be physically demanding at any given time. Naturally, you have to be able to work well with other bakers and other staff members within your place of work. However, there will also be times when you are expected to work independently. It is important that you are able to manage your time effectively.

Career Progression

On completion of your Level 2 Baker apprenticeship, you could expect to be earning around £19,000. Following successful completion of your qualification, you will be able to perform jobs typically titled the following:

  • Baker
  • Baking Operative
  • Confectioner
  • In-Store Baker

Progressive apprenticeship routes at Level 3 for Bakers are currently in development in the UK. However, positions as a Pastry Chef or even a Lead Baker may be available to you.

Summary

There are plenty of possibilities for you to explore where your career might lead. You’ll gain the necessary skills to establish your craft and explore the area(s) you might like to specialise in. Now is as good a time as any to enter an industry worth almost £4.4 billion.

Here at Apprentice Tips we want to make discovering the types of apprenticeships available across the UK. We hope that this article has taken you one step closer to discovering the right career path for you. Find out more by signing up to the newsletter on our website.

Food and Drink Process Operator [Level 2]

by
Image from Level 2 Food and Drink Process Operator Apprenticeship

Does working for one of the largest, most dynamic and fastest growing industries sound good to you? If so, read on to find out more about the occupational duties and KSB’s (knowledge, skills and behaviours) for the Level 2 Food and Drink Process Operator Apprenticeship. This role can help you start a new career that has lots of progression options. Or you could change roles in your current position and complete apprenticeship training.

What is a Food and Drink Process Operator?

This apprenticeship is a Level 2 standard and is found in the food and drink manufacturing sector. A process operator will usually work on production lines in food and drink manufacturing businesses.
The companies in this industry range sizes. They can produce anywhere from just one type of food to a range of products. Products include things that we enjoy to eat every day! Examples like cakes, confectionary, read-to-eat-food, salads and soft drinks, are all products you would work with on this apprenticeship.

What is the purpose of a Food and Drink Process Operator?

Broadly speaking, the purpose of this role is to complete food and drink processing procedures. This role is important as it will contribute to the manufacture of safe and compliant products. In your day-to-day role, you would also support technical operators to complete food and drink lines and operate machinery. This role relies on teamwork and means that you have to prepare for upcoming shifts and provide handovers. The technical operators you work with also monitor product quality against key performance indicators. This is something your role would provide support with.

Who will you be working with as a Food and Drink Process Operator?

In your everyday work you would interact with many people across the business, depending on its size and structure. For example, you could work with process operatives, technical operators and maintenance teams. In this apprenticeship, you would normally report to an Operational Manager, you would work under their direct supervision to ensure quality control.

What will you be responsible for?

  • Following the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
  • Ensure food safety
  • Environment and sustainability targets
  • Quality of output
  • Customer requirements and expectations
    This will be done whilst working in a team, that will strive to meet deadlines, efficiency, and productivity goals.

What are the occupational duties of a Food and Drink Process Operator ?

As a Food and Drink Process Operator apprentice, you will work by the 10 key duties
1. Completing food and drink processing procedures with the best KSBs possible.
2. Supporting the food and drink production line and machinery. This includes many aspects like: start up, set up, line changeovers and shut down of machinery.
3. Monitor you work to make sure product quality is to the best standard
4. Similar to duty 3, monitor the product output against KPI’s (key performance indicators)
5. Prepare for your teammates who are coming onto a later shift. This could include providing a machine handover. It’s recommended that you do this by verbal briefing or written communication
6. A big part of this apprenticeship is working with a team, this means contributing to team briefings. For example, you could prepare notes on health and safety issues.
7. As an apprentice in this role, there are 5S’s you have to go by: Sort, Set In order, Shine, Standardise and Sustain. Duty 7, includes contributing to continuous improvement using the 5S’s. This could be in the format of data collection to justify any improvement activity you see fit.
8. Particularly, in a post-pandemic world, completing workplace hygiene activities has never been so important. These activities should be done in line with the standards of the company you are completing the apprenticeship with.
9. This is an important duty to keep in mind, as it can impact the production line if not done correctly. You have to contribute to stock control.
10. Similar to duty 9, Duty 10, focuses on your role as an apprentice to contribute to audits. This includes both internal and external audits.

Image from Food Process Operator Apprenticeship

What are the KSB’s of a Food and Drink Process Operator Apprentice?

There are many Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours aspects that need to be taken into consideration. This part of the blog will outline the key factors to consider for each section.

Knowledge
There are 19 different knowledge aspects that you will be expected to understand on the apprenticeship. The key ones include:
Understanding the food and drink sector and more specifically the type of organisations you work with. As well as this, you will be expected to know the types of food and drink products for your company. This should help you understand the product origin and supply chain.
Part of your knowledge understanding will also be to have a comprehension of your position in the business and how it adds value to the customer/consumer.
In recent years, a key knowledge part of this role is to understand the environmental and sustainability aspects of your position. Its key to understand the types of pollution and the way you can control this. There are 4 control measures: noise, smells, spills, and waste. Also, understanding the benefits of recycling and how to use resources efficiently.

Skills
There are 16 key skill areas, but I have outlined the main ones that you will most likely learn at the start of the apprenticeship.
You need to be able to follow food and drink and apply quality assurance SOPs (standard operating procedures).
As well as this, having an understanding of stock management is key. This means being able to scan control, monitor and rotate stock effectively.
Part of your role as an apprentice will be to check and use the tools for any faults and health and safety issues. This leads into a key skill of being able to operate the correct equipment and machinery.
One of the most important skills you will be continually learning and developing on is your ability to comply with food safety regulations and procedures. This is complimented by the skill of complying with health and safety regulations and procedures as you will most likely be operating heavy machinery that you will need training on.

Behaviours
The behaviours for this apprenticeship follow the format of the skills and knowledge. This should work seamlessly together to make your apprenticeship experience successful.
One of the main behaviours expected of you is to put health, safety and food safety first. And in conjunction with this put the environment and sustainability first.
Throughout the apprenticeship you should seek learning and development opportunities that help you both professionally and personally. This will help you adapt to changing work requests.
Learning to work independently and take ownership of given work is an important behaviour for this apprenticeship. As is, learning how to take a team-focused approach to meet goals.

What qualifications do I need to do a Level 2 Food and Drink Process Operation Apprenticeship?

Having GCSE’s in English and Maths form a vital part of all apprenticeships. However, you can start this apprenticeship without these qualifications but you must have completed them before you pass through gateway (i.e. finishing the apprenticeship).

Want more information on apprenticeships?

Find out more about the apprenticeships available and extra information click here
Here are some other apprenticeships you might be interested in:
Level 3 Gas Network Craftsperson Apprenticeship
Building Services Engineering Technician Apprenticeship
To keep up to date with the latest developments in the apprenticeship world – Follow us on all our socials @ApprenticeNow
And subscribe to our newsletter to hear regular updates on the latest blog posts and Apprenticeship Tips!

Level 2 Pest Control Technician Apprenticeship

by

General information and specification.

Level 2 Pest Control Apprenticeship

Overview
Pest control is the management or regulation of a species that is considered a pest and may be harmful to the economy, environment, or the human health. A pest control technician works in a variety of commercial, residential, and industrial settings. Examples include, but are not limited to, industrial and storage facilities, office buildings, shopping centres, hotels and restaurants, medical facilities, educational institutions, and residential properties. In these settings, they deal with issues brought on by:

  • pests that harm and infest a wide range of materials, including dry foods, animal products, and cloth, including:
  • Significantly detrimental to public health pests that must be eradicated to stop the spread of illness and/or allergies

Vertebrates and invertebrates make up the two primary categories of pest species. The primary distinction is that invertebrates, like insects, beetles, and moths, lack a backbone or spinal column while vertebrates, like birds, mice, rats, and foxes, do.

The Pest Control Technician will need to do site surveys, identify levels of pest infestations, choose appropriate measures to get rid of pests, and prevent re-infestation. At all times, the technician must make sure that current laws are followed.

The Average Working Day
Regular preventive visits and reactive visits to address urgent pest infestations are part of the work. They might work alone or as a team. They must conduct their business safely, especially when handling chemicals and traps, and they must interact with all sorts of clients to ensure that they are properly informed about treatment plans and any potential risks. The most recent information on pest management must always be retained by pest control technicians, who must also uphold high standards of conduct and maintain correct records.

Entry Requirements
Determined by individual employers. Subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks. Typically apprentices will have a minimum of 4 GCSEs, grade C or above, (or equivalent) including Maths and English. Apprentices recruited without the minimum will be required to have achieved Level 1 English and Maths and take the test for level 2 prior to taking their end-point assessment. 
The below screen prints were taken directly from The Institute for Apprenticeships. The link to this website: https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/pest-control-technician/

Level:

This apprenticeship standard is a level 2

Standard review date:

This standard will be reviewed after a maximum of 3 years.

To find out more about other apprenticeships available, please click here.

Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiler Apprenticeship

by
Image of tiler scraping ceramic onto scalper

Apprenticeships are an alternative route to university, as well as a way to kick-start your career in a certain industry. Apprenticeships are continuing to grow and expand, with up to Level 7 degree apprenticeships now available, and in many different fields, such as the Construction industry.

What is a Wall & Tiler Apprenticeship?

The Level 2 Wall & Floor Tiler Apprenticeship offers you the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the craft, whilst learning and earning at the same time. Wall & Floor Tilers are responsible for operating in both commercial and domestic properties undertaking all types of wall and floor tiling using different techniques and materials desired by the client. Tilers have great knowledge of their craft, different tiling methods and techniques, and are able to meet client requirements. 


With the Wall & Tiler apprenticeship, you will have to complete a portfolio over the duration of the programme to demonstrate your competencies as well as training towards your English and Maths if required. You will also have to complete a theory-based test to ensure you have the required knowledge needed as a Wall & Floor Tiler. Once these are completed, you will then have your end point assessment which will consist of a knowledge test, a practical observation, and an interview conducted by an external examiner underpinned by your portfolio which you have provided. Once this process is done, you will then be awarded one of the follow grades: Fail, Pass or Distinction.

Image of tiler placing ceramic wall tile in position over adhesive with lash tile leveling system

What skills do Tilers need?

Tilers often work independently and as part of a team, depending on the scale of the project, and therefore must be effective communicators and able to work well in both environments, therefore, communication and team-working skills are key. Tilers must also be able to have good knowledge of the different safety and environmental regulations they must comply with, as well as have good knowledge of their craft,which you will gain if you decide to undertake an apprenticeship. Furthermore, tilers must be excellent problem solvers, and must be able to follow briefs and interpret drawings in order to execute a clients’ vision. 

According to the apprenticeship standard, these are the behaviours that are expected to be demonstrated by a wall & floor tiler;

  • Able to take responsibility of the safety of themselves and others around them
  • Must be reliable with a great work ethic, motivated, and able to adapt to changing environments and circumstances
  • Must be customer-centric
  • Must be meticulous, demonstrating attention to detail, quality, and always striving for improvement
  • Should have good industry knowledge and  be aware of the business missions and goals
  • Able to work effectively independently and as part of a team

What is the learning specification as a Level 2 Tiler?

The Level 2 Wall & Floor Apprenticeship usually lasts a duration of 30-36 months, in which apprentices will be learning the knowledge and understanding needed to qualify as a tiler, as well as the practical skills required. The different work methods that will be taught are;

  • Work Methods – to ensure you are working safely to protect yourself and those around you, such as identifying hazards and risks in the workplace.
  • Identify and respond to customer needs – to understand different types of communications and the different methods needed to meet customer requirements.
  • Construction industry – key factors and systems of work appropriate to different work environments.
  • Building methods – to identify different building methods and choose the appropriate method of preparation and fixing based on the work environment. 
  • Production and specification information – able to make appropriate judgements based on the environment of what methods and materials to use, as well as advising clients when necessary. 
  • Preparation, application and removal – understanding different preparation, application, and removal methods and when best to use them.

Sign up for our newsletter to keep up to date on all things apprenticeships, plus get a free e-book to help you prepare for your EPA!

Level 2 Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative

by

This Intermediate highway electrical maintenance and installation operative apprenticeship standard will provide you with a level 2 qualification.

Does being part of a team in a constructive and positive way interest you? if it does, then this could be the start of your journey to being an  Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative.

What is required for you to start your journey?

Entry requirements can vary between employers but on average Apprentices must have a Level 1 English and Maths qualification, as well as complete a Level 2 in both of these subjects before their end-point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 and for those whose primary language is BSL, a British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is accepted in place of any English qualifications.

Duration: The typical duration of this Apprenticeship is 24 months for achievement of competence in the sub-sector your choose.

Must have core skills to help you on your way.

  • Understanding the employer’s health and safety and environmental requirements and procedures
  • Understanding the employer’s requirements and identifying what work is required, what their responsibilities are and what plant, equipment, tools and materials are required.
  • Good interpersonal and team working abilities when communication internally and with clients

What about industry specific skills?

  • Ability to identify and practically reference common types of highway electrical equipment and the underlying principles of how these are installed and maintained (e.g. street lights, traffic signals, traffic signs, safety cameras) – together with detailed specialised understanding on the chosen sub- sector(s).
  • Understanding the employer’s requirements and identifying what work is required, what their responsibilities are and what plant, equipment, tools and materials are required.
  • Understanding the practices of maintenance techniques. These may be routine and regular checks or reactive checks in unexpected circumstances. In both instances, you should have the ability to carry out these checks in a safe and efficient way.
  • Understanding your employer’s requirements and procedures covering emergency attendance and work, and being able to leverage these to identify hazards and maximise site safety.
  • BONUS SKILL: Understand how  to  identify  and  apply  the  appropriate systems of  surface protection safely and how to dispose of waste appropriately.

Desired Behaviours.

There are three primary attributes and behaviours which are desired if you are looking to complete the Level 2 Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative.

Firstly, always ensure you are promoting a positive Health, Safety and Environmental culture. This means being alert and aware of your surroundings so you are able to identify any risks or hazardous situations. If you do identify a potential risk, you must be confident in reporting unsafe practices and set an example within the workforce on how to work safely. Your priority is that no one – either from the public or within the workforce – is harmed.

It is really important that you are confident in taking responsibility and ownership for your actions, whether they have a positive or negative impact on the workforce. The ability to be able to acknowledge your skill gaps and be engaged in working to improve this is a highly desired behaviour. Not only does this show willingness to grow, but aslo maturity within your role. You must make sure you are cooperating with your employer to ensure you are working to meet expectations and develop to a point of potentially exceeding.

Make an effort to show your enthusiasm, consideration and commitment to the role. Being able to work using your initiative to solve problems, seek out critical information and plan and organise work activities are all important skills.

If you have any questions about the Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative Apprenticeships, or any other information you discover on our website, feel free to reach out to us on Twitter!

Science Process Manufacturing Apprenticeship Level 2

by

Are you passionate about science or manufacturing and interested in combining your interests? This could be the perfect role for you! Build your interest into a career with a level 2 Science process manufacturing apprenticeship. Find out more below…

One person overseeing another person in a science process manufacturing warehouse in protective gear making physical alterations to electrical equipment.

About this industry

Firstly, one thing you need to know is that science process manufacturing is varied. It includes industries such as:

  • Biotechnology
  • Chemical
  • Composites
  • Petrochemical
  • Polymer
  • Pharmaceutical

The science process industry combines raw materials and apply a science based process or processes biological, chemical or physical to create products. Furthermore, these products are made continuously or in batches.

Within the science process manufacturing industry The Health and Safety Executive and other industry regulators will regularly inspect employers. The Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) Regulations will also apply to some process manufacturing companies. Employers must manage risks to the employee, product, environment, and sometimes the wider community.

People in a warehouse at a workstation in protective gear making physical alterations to electrical equipment.

Key Duties of a Science Process Manufacturing Apprentice

You’ll be responsible for various duties in this role. Here are a few examples of what you will be given the opportunity to get involved in:

  • Help to carry out process manufacturing operations by using operating plant or equipment in line with standard operating procedures
  • Arrange and prepare materials for process activity
  • Carry out checks of equipment and process before they run or as part of handover responsibilities
  • Contribute to quality control – This is where you will conduct quality checks and escalate concerns
  • Carry out end of process activities – For example, finish, pack, discharge or move goods

Core knowledge, skills and behaviours

Within your apprenticeship you’ll build a solid working knowledge, along with skills and behaviours. This will be in a mix of practical and education situations. You’ll get the most out of your studies through this. For example, knowledge of science process manufacturing, improve your ability to collect and interpret information, follow procedures in line with process industry environmental and sustainability regulations and adapt to changing work requests. Plus much more!

Lastly, for a more in depth look at this apprenticeship, you can read the brief full brief here.

Not feeling like the right fit? Why not take a look at Apprentice Tips full range of Apprenticeship blogs here.