Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026 - The role of a Workplace Assessor
Who are you and what’s your role at Edinburgh College?
My name is Malky Shoulder and I’m a Workplace Assessor for the Construction department.
What did you do before you became a Workplace Assessor?
I went to university after school, but it wasn’t for me. I then did a few jobs and worked as a labourer for a few years before I decided to study a Bricklaying apprenticeship with Edinburgh College. I chose to do an apprenticeship because I liked the idea of learning and working at the same time.
How did you come to be a Workplace Assessor?
My old lecturer reached out to let me know that there was a position available and after having really enjoyed my apprenticeship and appreciating the support that I was given, it was nice to be able to go back into that environment and be on the other side of it. Plus, I had already developed relationships with lecturers during my time at the College.
What is the role of a Workplace Assessor?
Within my role, I conduct site visits, going out to see our apprentices to see how they are getting on. My role involves gathering evidence for the apprentice’s SVQ portfolios, observing their practical skills, as well as checking their work meets the standards required. It’s not just about assessing competence but helping the apprentice progress through their programme. I’ve been through an apprenticeship so it’s great to be able to help people who are in a similar position to I was. It’s my job to make sure they’re meeting the qualification requirements, developing safely on site and that they are ready to qualify at the end of their apprenticeship. I also spend one day a week with the class in college.
What would you say to someone who was thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
I’d say go for it. Getting a trade is a life skill that’s going to stay with someone for the rest of their life. It’s a great way to learn your trade and having the mix of onsite and in college time means that you are well supported and you get to work with some great people.
What’s the most rewarding thing about your role?
The most rewarding part of my role is seeing the apprentices develop in confidence during their time spent with us. It’s fantastic to see not only their technical skills but also their social skills grow throughout their apprenticeship.