Summary
This article explains which AI tools an Apprentice can and cannot use during the End-Point Assessment (EPA). It applies to Apprentices on the Data Technician Level 3 standard (Data and Insights with AI Fundamentals, formerly DIBD) assessed by Accelerate People. Other End-Point Assessment Organisations have not issued a position on Atlas. Apprentices on a different programme must ask their Coach which rules apply. AI use is not completely banned during the EPA. The Apprentice must understand what is and is not allowed, because some uses result in an instant fail.
Why Atlas Is Not Permitted at EPA
Atlas is pre-populated with Multiverse learning content. Accelerate People must apply the same rules to every Apprentice, including Apprentices from other providers who do not have Atlas. For this reason, Accelerate People does not permit Atlas at any point during the EPA.
Rules for the AM1 Scenario Demonstration
The Scenario Demonstration (assessment method AM1) is the practical task. The rules below apply throughout it.
Prohibited
The Apprentice must not use Atlas during the Scenario Demonstration.
The Apprentice must not copy or paste the Scenario Demonstration brief, task instructions, data sets or raw task figures into any AI tool. This includes Atlas.
The Apprentice must not use AI to process pre-released EPA data during preparation. Pre-released data applies to Data Technician v1.1.
Using an AI tool to process any task text or data results in an instant fail.
Allowed
The Apprentice can use non-Multiverse search engines or browser-based AI assistants to look up generic reference material.
Examples include Copilot, Gemini, ChatGPT and AI Mode in a Google browser. Suitable lookups are formula syntax (for example, an XLOOKUP structure), formatting rules or where to find a chart type.
Used in this way, AI is a reference guide that supports the Apprentice doing the work. It must not do the work for them.
Use the Browser Version, Not In-App AI
The Apprentice must use the browser version of any AI tool. In-app assistants, such as Copilot in Microsoft Excel or Gemini in Google Sheets, are very likely to process the data in the spreadsheet. If the assessor sees an AI tool processing assessment data, the Apprentice fails.
If the usual working environment has an assistant panel, a natural-language query box or code completion switched on, the Apprentice must turn it off before the demonstration. The Apprentice must know how to turn it off. If it cannot be turned off, the Apprentice must not use it.
Rules for the AM2 Professional Discussion
The Professional Discussion (assessment method AM2) is the conversation with the assessor.
The Apprentice must not type the assessor's questions into any AI tool, including Atlas. The assessor is validating the Apprentice's own knowledge, skills and behaviours, not their ability to use a search engine.
The Apprentice can refer to a digital copy of their portfolio as a prompt for answers. The assessor may signpost evidence in the portfolio as part of their questions.
If the Apprentice reads strings of text from the portfolio or notes, the assessor is likely to ask further questions. The assessor must be confident that the work is the Apprentice's own.
If the Employer Restricts AI Tools
Some employers restrict AI tools on work devices. A standard internet browser with web search still meets the minimum requirement for the Scenario Demonstration. The Apprentice must not use a personal device.
If neither a browser nor an AI tool is available on the day, the Apprentice Manager must tell the Coach as early as possible. Multiverse can then agree an alternative arrangement with Accelerate People before the assessment date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions | Answers |
Question: Can I use Atlas to prepare for my EPA before the assessment day? | Answer: Yes, for general revision. The Apprentice must not use Atlas or any AI tool to process pre-released EPA data or assessment materials. |
Question: Can I use Copilot inside Excel during the Scenario Demonstration? | Answer: No. In-app AI assistants are very likely to process the assessment data, which results in an instant fail. Use the browser version of Copilot instead. |
Question: My employer blocks all AI tools. Am I at a disadvantage? | Answer: No. A standard browser with web search meets the requirement. Using AI incorrectly carries a risk of failure that a browser search does not. |
Question: Where can I read the full Accelerate People guidance? | Answer: The "Use of AI Guidance V1.1" document is on Accelerate People's Apex platform. The Apprentice can also find it in the EPA hub on The Platform. |