The register was updated by the Education & Skills Funding Agency (ESFA) on 30 June 2017 and AAOs are ranked according to the number of apprenticeship standards that they are approved to asses. NOCN is now approved to assess 29 apprenticeship standards, across a wide range of sectors from financial services to construction and retail, taking the top position, below Pearson Education Limited and above City and Guilds.

Why should employers choose NOCN for EPA?

Employers can access the AAO register on the Government website to establish which organisations are approved to deliver independent EPA for each apprenticeship standard and once that organisation has been selected the employer then confirms the decision with their training provider. The EPA is a vital part of the apprenticeship journey as it evaluates the individual’s competency and provides certification to qualify the apprentice. From the outset, employers should ensure that apprenticeships are designed in a way that supports the EPA.

NOCN offers a flexible service, working in partnership with employers to ensure each EPA meets the needs of both the employer and apprentice, keeping EPA charges fair and following stringent quality assurance procedures. Independent EPA from NOCN ensures that all apprentices have the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours detailed in the apprenticeship standard.