Changes to Level 3 NDT Engineering Technician apprenticeship

The Level 3 Non-Destructive Testing Engineering Technician apprenticeship has undergone important changes, specifically regarding the end-point assessment (EPA). These updates, introduced by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE), aim to ensure the apprenticeship standard aligns with IfATE’s requirements and meets the evolving needs of the non-destructive testing (NDT) industry.

One of the most significant revisions to the EPA is the removal of the project and project presentation component. While the project was designed to test the apprentice’s ability to conduct independent research and present their findings, it was often seen as a barrier to completion, particularly for those already proficient in multiple NDT methods.

The revised EPA structure replaces the project with a final examination that focuses solely on the apprentice’s proficiency in the third NDT technique they have studied. The examination will be aligned with PCN, Certification Scheme for Welding Inspection Personnel (CSWIP) or EN 4179 certification schemes, depending on the apprentice’s training route.

The final examination will assess the apprentice’s ability to perform key tasks using the third NDT technique. Some of the NDT techniques covered in the apprenticeship include magnetic particle inspection (MPI), penetrant testing (PT), visual testing (VT), ultrasonic testing (UT), radiographic testing (RT), phased array (PA) and condition monitoring techniques such as vibration analysis (VA), infrared thermography (IRT) and acoustic emission (AE).

By focusing on practical competence in these core techniques, the revised EPA provides a more streamlined and industry-relevant assessment process that aligns with the qualifications required for PCN, CSWIP or EN 4179 certification.

The updates to the EPA are expected to be implemented in early 2025. This timeline allows employers, training providers and apprentices to prepare for the new structure. During this transition period, it is recommended that employers and training providers begin familiarising themselves with the updated EPA requirements and consider how they will incorporate these changes into their training programmes.

The revisions to the EPA were introduced following a review by IfATE to ensure the apprenticeship standard better reflects the needs of the NDT industry. The goal was to create a more streamlined, practical assessment that focuses on the real-world skills required of NDT practitioners.

By removing the project and focusing on practical, hands-on techniques, IfATE aims to increase completion rates and reduce barriers to qualification, ensuring that apprentices can more quickly transition into the workforce with the necessary skills and certification.
For employers and training providers, the updated EPA structure offers several benefits:

• Streamlined assessment process: the removal of the project and presentation simplifies the assessment process, making it easier to manage and less time-consuming.
• Improved completion rates: with a more straightforward assessment process, apprentices are more likely to complete their training successfully.
  
• Faster qualification: the revised structure allows apprentices to complete the programme more efficiently, which is beneficial for employers who need skilled NDT technicians quickly.
  
• Greater alignment with industry needs: the focus on practical, hands-on skills ensures that apprentices are assessed on the techniques and standards they will use in real-world applications.
  
• Clearer path to qualification: the streamlined EPA provides apprentices with a clearer and more achievable route to certification.