CILIP Pathways has been confirmed as the end-point assessor for the Level 7 Archivist and Records Manager apprenticeship launched by the National Archives and led by Westminster Adult Education Service (WAES).

WAES will collaborate with CILIP Pathways to ensure that apprentices have a smooth journey from learning through to assessment and qualification.

From autumn 2023, apprentices will spend 20% of their time completing formal learning with a training provider such as WAES, while the other 80% of apprentices’ time will be dedicated to on-the-job training at the archives that employ them.

The Level 7 apprenticeship opens up an exciting new technical training route into the archives sector and will be equivalent to the Master’s degree typically required to become an archivist. By combining formal learning and on-the-job training, apprentices will achieve a high-level qualification over 3 years while working and earning. This opportunity will enable a wider range of people to join the recordkeeping profession.

Apprenticeships offer a credible alternative to the established academic route, allowing employers to address a range of key recruitment challenges, including diversifying their existing staff teams.

Jo Cornish, Director of CILIP Pathways, said:

“As the leading provider of apprenticeship assessment for the sector, CILIP Pathways is thrilled to see this apprenticeship added to the suite of standards available. There is a strong and growing appetite for technical pathways into the profession. We look forward to providing the end-point assessment for the apprentices."

Although WAES is based in London, the service will be training apprentices from archives across the country to help develop the national workforce. Other training providers are also welcome to join the Level 7 apprenticeship at any point.

CILIP recognises apprenticeships as an excellent workforce development route. The standards-driven learning and robust assessment will develop professionals ready to deliver high quality, forward-thinking services.

Several other Apprenticeships are in development or available to the profession:

• Level 3 - Library, Information and Archive Services Assistant

• Level 4 - Information Manager

• Level 7 - Library, Information and Knowledge

• Level 7 - Health and Care Intelligence Specialist

• Level 7 - Archives and Record Management

Find out more about apprenticeships and CILIP Pathways

Visit the Westminster Adult Education Service (WAES) site for more information on the level 7 Archivist and Records Manager Apprenticeship