RTITB is now approved to assess all of the key operative apprenticeships

RTITB has become the first approved End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) for the Express Delivery Operative apprenticeship standard.

"This means that RTITB is now approved to assess all of the key operative apprenticeships involved in the transport, delivery and storage of goods," says Laura Nelson, managing director of RTITB, explaining that the organisation is also approved to conduct EPAs for supply chain warehouse operatives and LGV drivers.

The Express Delivery Operative apprenticeship standard is a particularly flexible option for transport and logistics industry employers looking to develop talent. It supports training and assessment for walking postal workers; cycle, motorcycle or van couriers; as well as delivery drivers who install white goods.

The EPA is intended to ensure that an apprentice can do the job they have been trained for. Passing this assessment, which typically takes place at the end of a 12-month programme of training and work experience, is required to successfully complete an apprenticeship.

RTITB's EPA for this particular standard includes a short test of knowledge, a simulated work duty assessment, and a professional discussion. This content is in line with the EPA Plan developed by the Express Delivery Trailblazer group.

"Employers and training providers cannot conduct EPAs for their own apprentices; instead, EPAs must be carried out by an assessor from an independent, registered EPAO, such as RTITB," says Nelson "However, to make sure apprentices get the level of assessment that they deserve, employers should also ensure that the assessors they choose have specific transport and logistics sector experience."

"Some EPAOs may have the ability to assess apprentices to a minimum skills level, but workplace competence and industry expertise are what is really needed to conduct the high-quality assessments needed," she continues.

RTITB has a team of in-house assessors who have specific transport and logistics industry experience and are closely monitored to ensure consistently high assessment standards.