Estar Education

Event Assistant Apprenticeship (ST0168 – v1.0)

The Level 3 Event Assistant apprenticeship provides the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to support event planners and project managers in delivering professional events. Event Assistants play a key role across the entire event lifecycle — from research and planning through onsite coordination and post-event evaluation.

Level 3

Duration18 Months

Programme Overview

The Level 3 Event Assistant apprenticeship provides the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to support event planners and project managers in delivering professional events. Event Assistants play a key role across the entire event lifecycle — from research and planning through onsite coordination and post-event evaluation.

The role is varied and fast-paced, covering tasks such as venue sourcing, coordinating event logistics, supporting creative design, liaising with suppliers, managing documentation and supporting event delivery. Events may include conferences, exhibitions, product launches, outdoor events, cultural events, meetings and large-scale corporate functions.

Event Assistants work for event agencies, in-house event departments, venues, charities, public sector organisations and private companies. The role requires excellent communication, organisation, teamwork and attention to detail.

Who This Programme Is For

  • Individuals starting a career in events, hospitality or project coordination
  • Event agencies developing junior staff
  • Corporate event teams looking to build operational support roles
  • Organisations delivering conferences, meetings, trade shows or exhibitions
  • People who enjoy fast-paced, customer-focused, project-based work

What Apprentices Will Learn

Operational Skills

  • Supporting event planning and preparation
  • Conducting venue research and comparing options based on event needs
  • Assisting with logistics including transportation, catering, accommodation and delegate management
  • Creating documents such as spreadsheets, plans, reports and presentations
  • Using event technology platforms and in-house systems
  • Supporting onsite delivery, including registration and client/delegate support
  • Understanding event health & safety, compliance, regulations and policies
  • Contributing to project plans and operational documentation

Professional Skills

  • Communicating with clients, suppliers and internal teams
  • Asking effective questions and clarifying requirements
  • Working collaboratively within a team environment
  • Maintaining relationships and helping repair them when required
  • Understanding how client expectations influence event design and delivery
  • Managing time, prioritising tasks and working under pressure
  • Presenting information clearly, both verbally and in writing

Commercial Awareness

  • Supporting budget preparation and reconciliation
  • Checking costs, gathering data and calculating expenses
  • Understanding the business model, competitors and measures of success
  • Recognising how the Event Assistant role contributes to commercial performance
  • Applying efficient time and task management to maximise project profitability

Key Behaviours Developed

  • Positive attitude and enthusiasm
  • Calmness under pressure
  • Discretion and professionalism
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Initiative and adaptability
  • Respect, inclusion and teamwork
  • Openness to feedback and commitment to self-development
  • Sustainability awareness and reducing environmental impact

End-Point Assessment (EPA)

Gateway Requirements:

  • English & Maths at Level 2 (or achieved during programme)
  • Portfolio of evidence
  • Employer confirmation of readiness

EPA Components:

  1. Observation with Questions
  • Apprentice is observed carrying out real event-related activities
  • Questions assess deeper understanding
    1. Professional Discussion Underpinned by Portfolio
  • Structured discussion with an independent assessor
  • Portfolio used to support answers

EPA Grading:

  • Fail
  • Pass
  • Distinction

Entry Requirements

  • Employer-defined criteria (typically Level 2 English & Maths)
  • Passion for events, creativity and customer service
  • Ability to work flexibly and under pressure
  • Strong communication and organisational skills
  • Motivation to build a career in events or hospitality

Career Progression

Typical next roles include:

  • Event Coordinator
  • Event Planner
  • Project Support Officer
  • Venue Coordinator
  • Conference & Exhibition Assistant

Long-term progression:

  • Event Manager
  • Project Manager
  • Marketing & Communications roles
  • Senior Events Professional
  • Level 4/5 management or project qualifications

Funding Information (Standardised ESTAR Format)

Funding Band

This apprenticeship is funded up to the maximum band set by the Department for Education: £9,000.

Funding Information

  • Levy-paying employers:The full cost can be funded through your apprenticeship levy.
  • Non-levy employers:You contribute 5% of the training cost, and the government funds 95%.
  • Small businesses (under 50 employees):If the apprentice is 16–21, the government funds 100% of the training cost with £0 employer contribution.
  • Additional supportmay be available for apprentices with learning difficulties or care-leaver status.
  • There are no hidden costs.

Delivery Model (ESTAR Approach)

  • Blended delivery with online modules, virtual sessions and workplace learning
  • Monthly coaching sessions with an ESTAR events specialist
  • Employer-aligned tasks used to build competence
  • Portfolio of evidence developed throughout the 18-month programme
  • Regular tripartite reviews to ensure progress
  • Tailored support for event-specific systems, logistics and planning tasks
  • Thorough preparation for EPA, including mock assessments

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