NAEA Propertymark has launchesd the new Junior Estate Agent apprenticeship standard to raise entry levels of professional competence.
Created by an employer group, led by Mark Hayward on behalf of NAEA Propertymark and Aidan Reed, property consultant, the standard offers a learning framework for apprentices.
It will provide them with a standard of practical experience and training regardless of which agency they are joining, giving them the capability for career progression and enhancing their ability to undertake further qualifications.
Apprentices need to achieve level one English and Maths and take the test for level two prior to taking their final assessment. The apprenticeship is at a level equivalent to five GCSE passes.
The role for an apprentice is varied, with typical duties including preparing the floor plans of a property and assisting with preparing Sales Particulars along with data registration. Additionally, the Junior Estate Agent conducts viewings, receives formal offers made by buyers and carries out basic property research, including marketing procedures through portals, websites and various databases.
Hayward, chief executive, NAEA Propertymark said: We’re delighted to be the external quality assurance body, ensuring apprenticeship assessments are fit for purpose and delivering consistently high and relevant standards. The Government is looking closely at qualifications as a way to raise professionalism in the industry, and this is the starting point for those interested in a career in property.”
Reed, chair of working group that created the apprenticeship standard, added: “We know a lot of employers aren’t able to provide training themselves because of their size. This apprenticeship will fill those gaps giving fresh talent coming into the industry a solid grounding. It’s vital that agents embrace this opportunity, as in the modern landscape of estate agency, it’s the people who add value that make the difference.”
To coincide with the launch, NAEA Propertymark will be releasing the Employers’ Guide to Apprenticeships.
Apprentices will be eligible to apply for NAEA Propertymark or NAVA Propertymark Student membership. As a student member they will have three years to obtain a recognised qualification and full membership.