DWP now responsible for EPAO guidance for apprenticeships

Responsibility for the EPAO best practice guide moved to DWP on 1 April 2026. The guidance continues and confirms that apprentices in England must pass an independent EPA to complete their apprenticeship.

Responsibility for the guidance moved to the Department for Work and Pensions on 1 April 2026. The guidance continues to apply.

The guide is a best practice resource for EPAOs and for organisations considering offering apprenticeship assessment. It sets out roles and responsibilities for assessment across the apprenticeship journey.