Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs)- What do they mean?

Each Apprenticeship standard, whether it be in business, education, digital, health, or engineering, outlines its own set of KSBs. While the themes are similar across industries, the depth and complexity will vary depending on the level of the Apprenticeship. 

Knowledge, skills & behaviours (KSBs) are defined and outlined within each Apprenticeship standard, depending on the course. Each sector will have similar KSBs, but the level they need to be completed at will vary.

Defined as the theoretical understanding an apprentice needs to perform their role effectively. This includes industry-specific principles, regulations, and best practices. 

Knowledge is about understanding the theory behind your job. It’s the “why” behind the tasks you complete day to day. 

Typically completed during Off the job training, with your trainer off site, knowledge provides the foundation of your learnings. From decision-making to problem-solving, this will give you the base for when you cover the skills and behaviours throughout your Apprenticeship. 

This refers to the practical abilities developed through training and hands-on experience. These are the technical and transferable skills required for the job. 

Skills are the hands-on, practical abilities you develop through experience and practice in your job. They can include: 

• Using specific tools, equipment, or software
• Communicating clearly and professionally 
• Managing time and prioritising workload 
• Solving problems or improving processes 
• Working effectively with others 

Skills are demonstrated through your day-to-day work, showing that you can apply what you’ve learned in real-world situations. As you grow in confidence, your trainer and line manager will observe and record how your skills develop, ensuring you meet the required standard for your Apprenticeship. 

The professional attitudes and values expected in the workplace. These include teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and ethical responsibility. 

Behaviours reflect how an apprentice approaches their work and interacts with others. This is essential for long-term employability. 

Throughout your Apprenticeship, you’ll build a portfolio of evidence to show how you’ve met the required KSBs for your standard. In relation to the skills and behaviours, this is done through several ways. 

One of these is through the learner’s portfolio. This is the work-based evidence you will submit when you enter your Gateway. This can be through documents to show what the learner has completed at work, and how this has contributed to their learning through their Apprenticeship. During the end point assessment (EPA), you might take part in a professional discussion, presentation, or practical observation, where you’ll showcase what you’ve learned and how you’ve applied it in your role. 

Of course, it goes without saying that you as a learner will be fully supported to ensure that all KSBs are covered before the apprentice enters their Gateway and EPA. 

This ensures you stay on track, meet your learning goals, and achieve your qualification confidently within the timeframe. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours are the building blocks of a successful career. By mastering all three, apprentices become not only competent in their role but also well-rounded professionals who can adapt, communicate, and grow in a changing workplace. 

Understanding and developing your KSBs is key to standing out during your Apprenticeship and long after you’ve completed it. 

The recent updates to Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) in Apprenticeships will effect apprentices directly. They can expect more emphasis on the modern workplace and relevant learning associated to this, including digital skills, sustainability, and adaptability. There will also be a more direct focus on professional behaviours such as teamwork, problem-solving and communication. 

In relation to ensuring all KSBs are covered when you complete your EPA, this will look more closely at how apprentices apply these behaviours in real work situations, not just what they know technically. Some programmes may also become shorter or more flexible, especially for learners with prior experience. Overall, these changes aim to make Apprenticeships more relevant, accessible and aligned with today’s job market. 

• Knowledge gives you understanding 
• Skills show your ability 
• Behaviours reflect your attitude 

Together, they ensure you’re preparing for a successful and sustainable career, not just preparing you to achieve the qualification 

These three components are essential for learners to gain the right training relevant to their job role, as well as being paramount for businesses to build a skilled workforce relevant to their sector. 

Do you want to give your employees the correct KSBs to excel in their current or new job role? Or are you looking to give your team the opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised qualification? 

Let Fareport support your workforce and business through our many Apprenticeship offerings. Contact us today and let this be the stepping stone to success.