Apprenticeship Information
The purpose of this occupation is to construct the steel reinforcement which forms a vital part of any concrete structure. A steel fixer constructs reinforcement for columns, beams, walls and floors.
In their daily work a steel fixer would interact with other trades, such as formwork carpenters, groundworkers, scaffolders, as well as supervisors, site managers, architects, and designers.
This programme begins with a 3-week intensive training block, followed by structured on-site learning and scheduled return blocks.
Qualifications Gained
3-week practical training block at start of programme
Further block release sessions throughout programme
Skills, knowledge and behaviours – assessed in the workplace.
Specialist training – block release
End Point Assessment – knowledge test, practical test and interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence.
Duration
15 months – Cohort-based start date: 26 January 2026
Initial 3-week full-time block, then planned training blocks + on-site learning
John is part of the T3 Team and is one of our vocational experts who has helped to develop this apprenticeship standard.
He brings over 25 years of industry experience Starting as a steel fixer for a Tier 1 contractor, training and supervising team members before progressing onto more formal training – becoming an NVQ / QCF assessor and tutor.
End Point Assessment
The end point assessment is started once the employer is satisfied that the apprentice is working and displaying occupational competence. Learners must also have achieved mathematics at level 1 prior to beginning the EPA.
The End point assessment covers the following areas;
Knowledge Test
A test including multiple-choice, error spotting and scenario-based questions to demonstrate knowledge and understanding required by the job role.
Practical Test
This provides each apprentice with an opportunity to demonstrate the core skills, related knowledge and behaviours required by the occupational job role.
Structured Interview underpinned by portfolio of evidence
The apprentice will be required to showcase the core skills, technical knowledge and behaviours are needed in order to carry out the occupational role effectively. The apprentice will refer to and illustrate their answers with evidence from their portfolio of evidence.
The practical side of training really stood out, keeping me engaged and helping me build my confidence in steel fixing.
Pavendeep has recently completed his apprenticeship in steel fixing, and had developed the core skills that will allow him to progress in his chosen career.
Course Delivery
Our delivery approach ensures flexibility for both learners and employers, while meeting the requirements of the apprenticeship standard.
We will deliver the course through:
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Blended learning – a mix of in-centre training and online learning
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Scheduled block training at our centre (first block starting 26th January — 3 weeks)
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Ongoing on-site skills development with employer support
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Regular tutor sessions, reviews and progress check-ins
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Access to online learning resources and support
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Continuous formative assessment and feedback
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Preparation and support for End Point Assessment (EPA), including portfolio development and readiness training
This ensures learners gain the required knowledge, skills and behaviours to successfully complete the apprenticeship.
Block Training
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This programme begins with a 3-week intensive training block at our Barnsley Training Centre, starting 26th January.
This block develops core steel-fixing skills and prepares learners for site deployment.Initial Block Includes:
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Core reinforcement skills: cutting, bending, tying and fixing steel
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Health & Safety and industry standards
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Sustainability and environmental awareness
Learners then return to site to apply their skills in real working environments, supported by their employer.
Follow-up Training Blocks Include:
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Advanced reinforcement techniques
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Reading and interpreting construction drawings
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Quality assurance processes and introduction to digital tools
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Review sessions, progress checks and skills development
The final block focuses on Gateway preparation and End Point Assessment (EPA), ensuring learners are confident and assessment-ready.
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On-Site Assessment
- Skills assessed on site.
- Reviews carried out every 8-10 weeks
