The Future of Facilities Management: Why the Facilities Sector Needs More Qualified EPA Assessors

In the ever-evolving landscape of facilities management, a critical need has emerged for skilled professionals who can guide and shape the next generation of practitioners. The number of apprenticeship standards across all sectors has grown massively in recent years, which is fantastic to see, but has additionally increased the need for assessors carrying out End-point Assessment for all standards. As the industry, and technology, advances, so does the demand for these individuals responsible for maintaining and managing active leisure centres. Enter the Qualified End-point Assessment (EPA) Assessor – a role that holds the key to elevating the standards of facilities management and ensuring the proficiency of emerging professionals.

The UK’s leading Ofqual-recognised awarding organisation for the physical activity sector, Active IQ, offers over 100 accredited qualifications in a variety of disciplines from Entry-Level to Level 5. Within the apprenticeship sector, Active IQ offers 22 End-point Assessments across the leisure, education, facilities management, and community sectors. Active IQ is currently recruiting to expand its team of freelance assessors for its EPA service, leading the way to meet rising demand for End-point Assessors. As one of the first End-point Assessment Organisations (EPAO) within the physical activity sector to be approved on the Register of EPAO’s, Active IQ has great experience in this sector, and we’re looking for individuals as passionate as we are about maintaining the standards across this rapidly expanding industry. Could the role of EPA Assessor be right for you?

Unlock your career potential as an EPA Assessor

As an EPA Assessor, you have the unique chance to continuously deepen your expertise and knowledge in your field. Engaging with apprentices and their work can enable you to stay at the forefront of industry trends, best practices, and regulatory standards. This constant learning process fosters a deepened understanding of facilities management across all its dimensions. By guiding apprentices through their learning journey, you not only impart knowledge but also reinforce your own expertise. Moreover, the diverse backgrounds of the apprentices you’ll meet and interact with will enhance your communication and interpersonal skills, making you a more well-rounded professional.

Being an EPA Assessor also allows you to have a career that aligns with your lifestyle and schedule. Many assessment tasks can be accomplished remotely- whether it’s reviewing portfolios, conducting online presentations, or engaging in professional discussions, the role will give you unparalleled flexibility. As long as you have a stable internet connection, this remote work offers the freedom to work from home or any other suitable space, eliminating the need for daily commuting and providing a greater sense of freedom and autonomy.

While remote work will offer you great flexibility, there are also opportunities for on-site engagement. Facilities management covers a vast spectrum of settings, from educational institutions to healthcare facilities, commercial buildings to industrial sites. Depending on the specific apprenticeship program and assessment requirements, assessors may need to visit these facilities to conduct practical assessments or observe apprentices in real-world scenarios.  This variety in assessment settings enriches your experience in the role and allows you to witness firsthand the impact of the assessments across industries.

The freelance nature of the EPA Assessor role means that you can seamlessly integrate it with other sources of income. The number of assessments you undertake is entirely within your control, enabling you to adjust your workload to your own personal schedule. Whether you’re a full-time professional seeking to diversify or a retiree with a penchant for giving back, this role can accommodate your aspirations.

Among the most gratifying aspects of being an EPA Assessor is witnessing apprentices evolve and flourish. Guiding and supporting them on their journey to acquiring skills, knowledge, and confidence is profoundly fulfilling. Knowing that you have played a crucial role in helping apprentices achieve their goals and enhance their professional journey as a facilities operative or grow their career as a facilities manager, is a source of immense satisfaction and fulfilment.

If the prospect of shaping future facilities professionals while enhancing your own career excites you, then the role of an EPA Assessor is your gateway to a fulfilling new vocation. Our qualifications include background information about the development of apprenticeship standards in England, the principles and requirements of End-point Assessment and a clear overview of the different types of End-point Assessment methods. Those undertaking a qualification with Active IQ will acquire all the knowledge and skill to be able to plan, manage, and fulfil an EPA. Dive into a world of continuous learning, unfettered flexibility, diverse environments and deeply rewarding experiences, and start your journey to be an EPA Assessor today by visiting www.activeiq.co.uk/end-point-assessment-for-apprenticeship-standards.