Back in the summer, we told you about a Trailblazer group of 11 ceda Members who were developing a new apprenticeship standard for a Catering Equipment Technician.

With the help of an advisor from the Institute of Apprenticeships, the group submitted a draft proposal for a Catering Equipment Technician. The initial proposal included details of the essential duties and tasks that need to be undertaken when servicing and maintaining catering equipment. The proposal was accepted earlier this month and means the group can now develop the next steps of the apprenticeship scheme.

The second phase that needs to be designed as part of the standard is made up of two parts;

1. To agree the knowledge, skills and behaviours required in a Catering Equipment Technician to fulfil the duties and tasks set out in the initial proposal.
2. To develop an end point assessment that will determine whether the apprentice has gained the required knowledge, skills and behaviours and can competently carry out the necessary duties and tasks. The assessment can be practical or written but must be carried out by an independent, registered assessor or organisation.

The knowledge, skills and behaviours were agreed by the Trailblazer group, now consisting of 14 ceda Members and other interested parties, on 22^nd November.

A small sub-section of the group will meet on 17^th December to determine the end point assessment plan, which will then be put to the rest of the group and submitted early in the New Year.

It is hoped the entire apprenticeship standard process will be accepted and finalised by May 2019. Whilst the apprenticeship will be open to all, the hope is that this time-frame will catch school and college leavers.

If you would like to know more about the apprenticeship standard, or want to become part of the Trailblazing Group, please contact ceda Technical Support Advisor, Peter Kay, peterkay@ceda.co.uk.