This month we are introducing three key characters behind the delivery of our Skills and Education Group Awards End Point Assessments. This team work tirelessly on our end-point assessment product offer to ensure is fit for purpose, relevant to the market, and in alignment with our wider strategic aims and priorities.
Meet Kerry our Head of End Point Assessment
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hi, I am Kerry, I’m a dedicated advocate for apprenticeships and lifelong learning, passionate about developing engaging educational content and fostering continuous personal and professional growth. When I’m not working, you can find me enjoying festivals and theme parks. I believe that a well-rounded life fuels creativity and keeps me inspired.
What is your role at Skills and Education Group?
As the Head of End-Point Assessment at the Skills and Education Group, I oversee the development and delivery of assessment processes for apprenticeships. My role involves ensuring the quality and integrity of assessments and working closely with stakeholders to meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. I am committed to supporting apprentices in achieving their apprenticeship and advancing their careers through robust and fair assessments.
What led you to working here?
I was looking for a role that would challenge me and let me make a real difference. I’ve worked in all areas of apprenticeships, from quality and curriculum development to delivery and end-point assessment. In my current position, I use this experience to help make our End-Point Assessment Organisations (EPAOs) the best they can be, supporting all our providers effectively.
What are you most passionate about regarding Awards?
What I’m most passionate about with Skills and Education Group Awards is our commitment to the Fashion and Textiles Sector, especially as the only End-Point Assessment Organization (EPAO) for many of the industry’s standards. Additionally, our recent expansion into the childcare and education sector is especially exciting for me, given my background in early years and teaching.
What advice would you give to your 16–18-year-old self?
Always be brave. Face life’s challenges with courage, resilience, and integrity. Always be true to yourself and your values, even when the path is uncertain or difficult.
If you could choose any Awards Apprenticeship to study which one, would it be and why?
I would choose the sewing machinist standard. I would develop essential skills such as operating various types of sewing machines, understanding fabric types, and making precise adjustments. This will come in handy when I re decorate and want to get creative with my furniture!
Meet Owen our End‑Point Assessment Manager
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m passionate about reading and enjoy consuming all sorts of fiction and non-fiction. History is my biggest area of interest, and I also love watching football, but don’t play as I have two left feet. I love holidays, but my bucket list remains stubbornly long!
What is your role at Skills and Education Group?
I am the EPA Manager, and I manage the operational delivery of SEG’s End-point Assessment provision. I oversee relationships with our Training Provider partners, manage our team of End-point Assessors and work closely with our Head of End-point Assessment.
What led you to working here?
I wanted something that made better use of my abilities and skillset and the job spec of the role which I applied for matched with that well. I also already had some experience of Apprenticeships but on the Provider side.
What are you most passionate about regarding Awards?
Our Youth Support Worker EPA and contributing to the training of a new generation of youth workers.
What advice would you give to your 16–18-year-old self?
Be more driven.
If you could choose any Awards Apprenticeship to study which one, would it be and why?
Coaching Professional, as engaging with individuals to empower and enhance their professional performance is very different to what I am experienced in, but which I think I could get enjoyment from and be successful at.
Meet Nicola, one of our relationship managers with a focus on EPA.
Tell us a little bit about yourself
I have a keen interest in travel and learning new languages and enjoy exploring new places and cuisine. When I am not exploring, you’ll likely find me shopping online and in the high street.
What is your role at Skills and Education Group?
In my professional role as a Relationship Manager, I support education providers in promoting Group products and services to both existing and potential customers. I focus on retaining allocated customers and identifying growth opportunities within the West Midlands region, while also advocating our involvement in End Point Assessment Services.
What led you to working here?
Having worked in the education and skills sector for many years I am passionate about helping people achieve qualifications to enable their employment and career progression.
What are you most passionate about regarding Awards?
I can support and be part of lifelong learning and the importance of continuous professional development. I can play a key role in providing opportunities for individuals to gain new skills and knowledge which is something that I am passionate about.
What advice would you give to your 16–18-year-old self?
Take advantage of all available opportunities for skill development and training, as everyone learns and advances in their own unique way. Have the confidence to pursue your personal training and career path. I am huge advocate for apprenticeships, and I wish I had known more about apprenticeships prior to going to University.
If you could choose any Awards Apprenticeship to study which one, would it be and why?
I would either choose one that is related to my professional development such as Level 4 Sales Executive and be mindful of what industry needs and where the skills shortages are and pursue this route.