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  7. Level 3 apprenticeship framework
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Print - level 3 apprenticeship framework

This framework sets out the standards and criteria you must meet to complete the apprenticeship programme and receive your apprenticeship certificate for level three in print. This is the only level three training in this skill acceptable for ApprenticeshipsNI funding.

About the framework

This framework sets out the standards and the criteria for the delivery of a level 3 apprenticeship framework to achieve qualified status within the print industry.

If you successfully complete the framework, you'll be awarded a level 3 qualification showing recognition as a qualified person within the industry.   

Mandatory outcomes

Achievement of a level 3 apprenticeship in print will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.

You must complete a competence-based and knowledge-based qualification from one of the pathways below along with the mandatory essential skills.

Mandatory essential skills

To successfully complete the apprenticeship, you must achieve the following essential skills qualifications as part of the apprenticeship or already hold a recognised equivalent:

  • application of number – level 2
  • communication – level 2
  • information and communication technology – level 2

However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.

Competency and knowledge qualifications – pathway options

You must complete both a competence-based and a knowledge-based qualification in your chosen pathway, selected from the options below.

Pathway one: press

Competence-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 NVQ diploma in machine printing (600/0607/9)

Knowledge-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 certificate in understanding the print working environment (600/3252/2)

Pathway two: post press

Competence-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 NVQ certificate in print finishing (600/0523/3)

Knowledge-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 certificate in understanding the print working environment (600/3252/2)

Pathway three: pre-press

Competence-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 NVQ diploma in digital pre-press for print (600/0609/2)

Knowledge-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 certificate in understanding the print working environment (600/3252/2)

Pathway four: print administration

Competence-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 diploma in print administration (600/2808/7)

Knowledge-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 certificate in understanding the print working environment (600/3252/2)

Pathway five: packaging

Competence-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 NVQ certificate in carton manufacture (600/5452/9)

Knowledge-based qualification:

  • GQA level 3 certificate in understanding the print working environment (600/3252/2)

Eligibility and entry to the programme

You must be employed, and have achieved a minimum of grade D in both GCSE maths and English or their equivalent, to enter this level 3 apprenticeship.

Entry to the level 3 apprenticeship is by progression from the level 2 print industry apprenticeship.

You may also enter the level 3 apprenticeship, subject to assessment by the training contractor and employer, if you've:

  • already gained significant work experience in this occupational area, which could be considered as meeting the requirements of the level 2 printing industry framework, and also demonstrate the capacity to achieve a level 3 standard
  • previously achieved a relevant level 2 recognised vocational qualification that is a mandatory requirement of the current apprenticeshipsni level 2 printing industry framework

Employers may also apply their own criteria at recruitment.

Employers and providers must make sure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the apprenticeship successfully. 

See also the DFE Operational Requirements  

Duration

Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training provider and employer.

Assessment

The qualifications will be assessed as per the awarding organisation’s centre requirements. Assessment will take place both during and at the end of the apprenticeship, with completion being dependent on successful achievement of the qualification elements.

Assessment methods include:

Portfolio of evidence

As you complete a task in the workplace that shows you have achieved appropriate levels of skill, knowledge and behaviour, you will store details in the portfolio as evidence.  Portfolios can be paper based or electronic.

Observation of performance in the workplace environment

You may be observed by an assessor performing a task or tasks in the workplace against the assessment criteria for the relevant unit(s).

Witness statement or testimony

A signed personal statement from an appropriate person may be used to describe how you performed a task in the workplace or produced your evidence for assessment.

Oral/ professional discussion/ interview

A discussion between the apprentice, your assessor and (possibly) the employer about practical tasks completed including how they were carried out.

Enhancements

Employers may wish apprentices to undertake additional automation and e-commerce skills in-house training where this is not already covered in the qualifications.

Such additional training is optional and is not funded by DfE.

Related knowledge

All pathways must include mandatory induction.

Employee rights and responsibilities (ERR) must be covered and confirmation of completing ERR must be included with the request for the apprenticeship certificate.

Responsibilities

It's the training contractor/ college's responsibility to make sure  the requirements of this framework are delivered in line with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.

The apprentice must be employed from day one.

Further information

The content of this framework (framework number 349 issue 7: 12/20) has been developed between the Department for the Economy and the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Sectoral Partnership (working with NSAFD).  For further information, contact:

  • Department for the Economy - apprenticeships delivery and performance branch
  • NSAFD
  • Occupational profile - print
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