Retail - level 2 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 two retail. This is the only level 2 training in this skill acceptable for apprenticeshipsni funding.
About the framework
This framework specifies the standards and the criteria for the delivery of level 2 apprenticeship training to achieve qualified status within the retail industry.
If you successfully complete the apprenticeship you'll be awarded a level 2 qualification and be recognised as a qualified person within the industry sector.
Mandatory outcomes
Achievement of a level 2 apprenticeship in retail will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.
You must complete both the competence and 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 1
- communication – level 1
- information and communication technology – level 1
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
You need to complete both a competency-based and a knowledge-based qualification, from the list below.
Competence-based qualification:
- iCQ Certificate in Retail Skills 600/6032/3(external link opens in a new window / tab)
- NOCN Certificate in Retail Skills 600/7146/1(external link opens in a new window / tab)
- VTCT Certificate in Retail Skills 600/5076/7(external link opens in a new window / tab)
Knowledge-based qualification:
- VTCT Certificate in Retail Knowledge 500/6943/3(external link opens in a new window / tab)
- iCQ Certificate in Retail Knowledge 600/3204/2(external link opens in a new window / tab)
- Highfield Certificate in Retail Knowledge 600/3750/7(external link opens in a new window / tab)
- BIIAB Certificate In Retail Knowledge 601/6578/9(external link opens in a new window / tab)
- OCN NI Level 2 Certificate in Retail Knowledge 603/4982/7(external link opens in a new window / tab)
- OCN NI Level 2 Diploma in Retail Knowledge 603/4983/9(external link opens in a new window / tab)
Eligibility and entry to the programme
There are no formal entry requirements to take part in this apprenticeship. However, employers may apply their own criteria at the recruitment stage. Employers and contractors must make sure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the apprenticeship successfully.
You must be a new employee, or an existing employee taking on a new role to take part in the programme.
See also the DfE operational requirements(external link opens in a new window / tab).
Duration
Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer.
Related knowledge
For this framework, you must complete a suitable employee rights and responsibilities (ERR) workbook. Framework certification is issued on confirmation from training suppliers that the ERR has been completed.
Responsibilities
It's the training contractor/ college's responsibility to make sure all components 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 No 31 Issue 19: 09/24) has been agreed by the Department for the Economy.
For further information, contact:
For employers
If you want to take on an apprentice or improve the skills of your employees to help your business work better, the Apprenticeships programme could be for you.