At Steadfast Assessment, we’re committed to staying aligned with national standards and making apprenticeship assessments as clear and accessible as possible. That’s why we’re implementing some important updates to the language we use — changes that reflect both our own evolution and new government guidance for the 2025–26 academic year.
✅ Steadfast EPA is becoming Steadfast Assessment
As we continue to grow and support apprentices across a wide range of sectors, we’re updating our name to better reflect who we are and what we do. “Steadfast Assessment” reinforces our focus on delivering high-quality, supportive, and streamlined apprenticeship assessment services.
This is a branding change only — our dedication to service, quality, and outcomes remains the same.
🏛️ Government-led Terminology Changes
The Department for Education (DfE) has introduced new funding rules and language standards that will apply from 1 August 2025. These changes aim to simplify communication across the apprenticeship journey for providers, employers, and apprentices.
Here’s what’s changing:
Old Term ➡ New Term
- End-point assessment (EPA) ➡ Apprenticeship assessment
- End-point assessment organisation ➡ Assessment organisation
- Gateway ➡ Gateway to completion
These updates are part of the wider Assessment Principles introduced by the government in early 2025. You can read more about the policy changes here.
🛠️ Other Key Government Changes from August 2025
In addition to terminology updates, the government is introducing several important changes that will impact apprenticeship programmes:
- Minimum Duration Reduced The minimum length of many apprenticeships will drop from 12 months to 8 months where appropriate, making apprenticeships more accessible and flexible for those with prior learning.
- Standardised Off-the-Job Training (OTJT) Hours Each apprenticeship standard will have a published minimum OTJT requirement, replacing the previous 20% rule. This change allows training providers to deliver OTJT hours more flexibly throughout the programme.
- Introduction of Foundation Apprenticeships A new apprenticeship level designed for 16–21-year-olds (and eligible 22–24-year-olds) will launch in August 2025, with distinct funding and assessment rules.
- Flexibility in Functional English & Maths Requirements Apprentices aged 19 and over will no longer be required to pass Functional Skills as a gateway requirement, allowing them to opt-in based on their individual needs.
- Shift to Principles-Based Assessment Assessment plans will follow new Assessment Principles, allowing assessment activities to be spread throughout the apprenticeship programme rather than concentrated only at the end. This supports a more holistic and ongoing assessment approach.
- Simplified Funding Administration Funding processes and data submissions will be streamlined, reducing bureaucracy and improving cash flow for providers and employers.
🔍 Why This Matters
While some of these changes may seem technical, they are designed to:
- Improve clarity and consistency across the apprenticeship sector
- Make apprenticeships more accessible and flexible
- Support a modern, principles-based approach to assessment
- Reduce administrative burdens so providers can focus more on learners
- Align language and process with current funding and regulatory frameworks
💬 What Stays the Same?
Everything you’ve come to expect from us:
- Fair, supportive assessment practices
- Free resits/retakes
- No hidden fees
- Expert assessment coordinators
- Ongoing guidance and resources
- Clear, constructive feedback
Whether you’re a training provider, employer, or apprentice, our mission remains unchanged: to support you from gateway to completion with integrity, clarity, and care.
📞 Get in Touch
If you have any questions about the new terminology or government changes, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
📧 enquiries@steadfastepa.co.uk
📱 01775 513 056
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