The United Kingdom is currently facing a national shortage of Assessors, particularly in key industries such as Construction, Engineering, Hospitality & Catering, and Allied Healthcare Professionals. This presents a fantastic opportunity for skilled professionals to transition into an Assessor role, helping to train and certify the next generation of workers.
If you have industry experience and are passionate about sharing your knowledge, becoming an Assessor could be a rewarding career move. This article will guide you through the steps to becoming an Assessor and provide helpful hints along the way.
What Does an Assessor Do?
An Assessor works with learners, apprentices, and trainees to evaluate their competency against industry standards, often in workplace settings.
This involves:
- Observing learners in their working environment
- Providing feedback and guidance
- Assessing portfolios of evidence
- Ensuring qualifications meet national standards (e.g. Apprenticeships)
Assessors play a key role in maintaining high industry standards and ensuring the workforce is well-trained and competent.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Assessor
Step 1: Have Industry Experience
To become an Assessor, you need substantial hands-on experience in your chosen field.
Employers look for individuals with:
- A solid background working in the industry
- Relevant qualifications (e.g. Level 3 or above in the sector)
- Current industry knowledge and skills
Helpful Hint: If you’ve been working in your industry for several years and have trained or mentored junior staff, you may already have valuable skills for assessing.
Step 2: Gain an Assessor Qualification
To legally assess learners, you need a recognised Assessor qualification.
The most common qualification is:
Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) (this qualifies you to assess learners in both workplace and classroom settings).
Other qualifications include:
- Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment (for workplace-only assessments)
- Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (for classroom-based assessments)
Helpful Hint: If you’re unsure which qualification suits you, the CAVA is the best all-round option.
Step 3: Secure a Role as a Trainee Assessor
Once you have the right qualifications, you can apply for Assessor roles. Many training providers and colleges hire industry experts who are working towards their Assessor qualification as Trainee Assessors.
You can find vacancies in:
- Further Education colleges
- Private training providers
- Apprenticeship providers
- Large employers with in-house training teams
Helpful Hint: Look for “Trainee Assessor” roles if you don’t have your Assessor qualification yet. Some employers will fund your training while you work.
Step 4: Develop Your Teaching and Mentoring Skills
Assessors don’t just check competence; they guide and support learners. Developing your teaching skills can set you apart.
Consider:
- Taking the Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET) or Level 3 Award in Coaching and Mentoring (ACM)
- Shadowing experienced Assessors
- Attending CPD workshops on coaching and mentoring
Helpful Hint: The AET qualification can improve your ability to deliver effective training sessions alongside assessments.
Step 5: Stay Up to Date with Industry Standards
Assessors must keep up with changes in their industry and vocational education.
Stay informed by:
- Joining professional bodies (e.g., CITB for Construction, Engineering Council for Engineering, BESA for Building Engineering Services or SET for Teaching & Training)
- Attending industry and education conferences
- Keeping your own qualifications and CPD up to date
Helpful Hint: Employers value Assessors who show commitment to professional development. Stay ahead by regularly updating your skills.
Why Become an Assessor?
Job Security & Demand – With a national shortage, skilled Assessors are in high demand.
Flexible Work – Many Assessor roles offer part-time, freelance, or hybrid working options.
Career Progression – Move into Lead Assessor, Internal Quality Assurer (IQA), or even Training Manager roles.
Make a Difference – Help shape the next generation of industry professionals.
Final Thoughts: If you’re an experienced professional in Construction, Engineering, Hospitality & Catering, or Allied Healthcare, now is the perfect time to become an Assessor. With industry experience, the right qualifications, and a passion for teaching, you can transition into this rewarding career and help address the UK’s Assessor shortage.
Next Steps:
Research and enrol in a L3 CAVA course
Look for Trainee Assessor or Assessor roles in your industry, depending on qualification and experience
Start building your teaching and mentoring skills
By taking these steps, you can move into a career where your industry expertise makes a real impact.
By Gavin Lumsden, Consultant, Teacher-Educator & Author