Polymer processing operations - 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 polymer processing operations. This is the only level three training in this skill acceptable for apprenticeshipsni funding.
About the framework
This framework specifies the standards and the criteria for the delivery of a level three apprenticeship framework to achieve qualified status within the polymer operator/technician industry. Successful completion of the framework will lead to the award of a level 3 qualification showing recognition as a qualified person within the industry.
Mandatory outcomes
Achievement of a level 3 apprenticeship in polymer processing operations will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.
You must complete both a competence-based and a knowledge-based qualification, along with the mandatory essential skills qualifications.
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 (ICT) – level 2
However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.
Competence and knowledge qualifications
You need to complete both the competency-based and the knowledge-based qualifications shown below.
Competence-based qualification:
Knowledge-based qualification:
Eligibility and entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for learners undertaking this apprenticeship, however entry to the level 3 apprenticeship requires the ability to undertake and achieve level 3 vocational qualifications.
You can demonstrate this ability via successful completion of a relevant level 2 apprenticeship (engineering for example), or a relevant level 2 or equivalent vocational qualification.
Alternatively your training contractor and employer may carry out an assessment of your abilities prior to enrolment. Employers and training contractors must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the apprenticeship successfully.
See also the DfE operational requirements for programme eligibility.
Duration
Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer.
Assessment
Competence qualifications are achieved in the workplace and are usually assessed by portfolio and observation.
For the knowledge qualification, all units are internally assessed in the BTEC qualifications in this specification.
All assessment for the BTEC qualifications in this specification is criterion referenced, based on the achievement of specified learning outcomes. Each unit within the qualification has specified assessment and grading criteria which are to be used for grading purposes.
A summative unit grade can be awarded at pass, merit or distinction. Learners who complete the unit but who do not meet all the pass criteria are graded ‘unclassified’.
The full assessment strategies for the competence and knowledge qualification can be provided on request.
Related knowledge
For this framework, the participant is required to complete a suitable employee rights and responsibilities (ERR) workbook. Framework certification is issued on confirmation from the training contractor that the ERR has been completed.
Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of the training contractor/college to ensure that the requirements of this framework are delivered in accordance with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.
The apprentice must be employed from day one.
Further information
The content of this framework (Framework No 348 Issue 5: 03/21) has been developed between the Department for the Economy and the Life and Health Sciences sectoral partnership (working with Cogent Skills). For further information, contact: