Programme structure
An apprenticeship is made up of two key stages:
The Practical Period (On-Programme Learning)
This is the main learning phase of the apprenticeship, where apprentices develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed for their role. They will complete a mix of workplace training, online learning, assignments, and practical tasks, all supported by their Programme Lead and workplace mentor.
Gateway and End-Point Assessment (EPA)
Once an apprentice has completed their training and is confident in their role, they go through “Gateway,” where their employer and Programme Lead confirm they are ready for the final assessment. The End-Point Assessment is a formal process where apprentices demonstrate what they’ve learned through a combination of assessment methods depending on their apprenticeship programme.
Assessment
Programme Leads and Tutors will check apprentices’ understanding using informal question-and-answer sessions, quizzes, assignments, reflections, and other suitable methods such as:
- Observations
- Professional discussions
- Portfolio reviews
- Self-assessments
- Workplace projects
End Point Assessment (EPA)
The End Point Assessment (EPA) is where apprentices demonstrate their competency in the role by completing a formal assessment at the end of their apprenticeship. The specific EPA requirements vary by programme:
- Knowledge test
- Practical coaching observation
- Professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio
Eligibility criteria
It is desirable but not essential to have GCSE PE, BTEC Level 2/3 in Sport or Community Activator Coach Level 2 qualification.
To complete the EPA, apprentices are required to have Level 2 maths/English functional skills or equivalent GCSE qualifications.
Prior experience working in a school is not required.
It is a requirement to provide evidence of GCSE English and maths (minimum Grade 9/C) or equivalent. If applicants are unable to provide evidence, they will be required to achieve Functional Skills Level 2 in these subjects and are supported in completing these alongside their apprenticeship.
What employers need to do
Apprenticeships work as an agreement between United Learning Apprenticeships, the employer, and the apprentice. Positive collaboration between the three parties allows the apprentice to gain the best value from their apprenticeship and for the organisation to gain optimal benefits from the apprentice’s work.
It is the employer’s responsibility to:
- Assign a suitable workplace mentor who can support and guide the apprentice throughout the programme
- Allocate 6.5 hours a week ‘off-the-job’ time for apprentices
- Invited to attend mentor briefings to enable them to support their apprentice
- Have access to the Programme Lead
- Attend learner progress reviews
Career progression
Gaining an industry Level 4 Sports Coach Qualification means apprentices will be fit for work in the sports industry in schools, communities or sport-based workplaces.
They will also be eligible to become a Coach Practitioner Member of the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMPSA).