NAJ approved as end point assessment organisation
The National Association of Jewellers has announced that it has been approved as an End Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO).
As a result of this the NAJ can now formally assess apprentices who have completed their Level 3 Jewellery, Silversmithing and Allied Trades.
As an approved EPAO, the NAJ must ensure that apprentices have reached the required standard and have obtained the knowledge and skills necessary to formally pass their apprenticeship.
The NAJ is the only EPAO for the jewellery manufacturing sector and opens up nine specialist pathways to help NAJ members recruit and train future staff.
The nine specialist pathways are: covering casting, silversmithing, mounting, stone setting, engraving, enamelling, polishing/finishing, CAD/CAM and lapidary. Apprenticeship training is currently offered by the British Academy of Jewellery.
Ben Massey, principal officer, said, “This is fantastic news for the whole UK jewellery manufacturing industry. The status opens the door for the jewellery businesses to be able to start recruiting and training new apprentices into the specialist skills areas required after a three-year hiatus.
“At the Association, we’re proud to support such a passionate and professional group of jewellery businesses. With this new standard, and related projects, which we are continuing to work on, it’s important we continue to invest in the future of the trade.”