Apprenticeship Assessment Reform

Over the next 12–18 months, the apprenticeship landscape is set to undergo major change under the new Apprenticeship Assessment Principles, launched by DfE in February 2025. These reforms aim to streamline assessments by introducing greater flexibility around English/Maths, reducing minimum durations, and simplifying assessment pathways. As part of the transition, “Apprenticeship Assessment” will replace “end-point assessment,” and “Assessment Organisations” will supersede EPAOs, with new agreements required between providers and assessors.

The reform roadmap is already in motion. From September 2025, revised Apprenticeship Assessment Plans (AAPs) will begin rolling out across more than 650 standards, with full updates expected by August 2026. Providers, employers, and assessment organisations will need to align on roles and validation processes, while navigating updated funding rules, revised timelines, and new guidance materials.

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