Handbook. Level 2 Award in Retail Knowledge (QCF) RKA02

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1 Skillsfirst Awards Handbook Level 2 Award in Retail Knowledge (QCF) RKA02 Suite 215 Fort Dunlop Fort Parkway Birmingham B24 9FD

2 Contents Page Section 1 Introduction 2 Section 2 Skillsfirst Awards Limited 2.1 Data protection Equality and accessibility Enquiries and information sources Complaints and appeals Malpractice and maladministration 4 Section 3 The sector skills council for retail 3.1 Skillsmart Retail Limited, People 1st Occupation competence of those involved in assessment and quality assurance Employer Direct Model Continuous professional development 5 Section 4 Summary of assessment methods 4.1 Assessment principles Characteristics of assessment guidance Simulation and witness testimony Recognition of prior learning (RPL) 7 Section 5 Qualification information 5.1 What is the qualification and credit framework (QCF) QCF units QCF terminology Availability of qualifications 8 Section 6 Qualification structure 6.1 Number of credits required for each qualification The rules of combination List of available units and their credit value Learner entry requirements Progression opportunities 10 Section 7 The units of learning 7.1 Structure of the units Group A Group B 25 RKA02 v

3 1.0 Introduction 1.1 Skillsfirst Awards is an awarding organisation specialising in the provision of vocational qualifications across a range of occupational areas. 1.2 Skillsfirst Awards recognises the need for industry to have fully trained and qualified staff reliably qualified to recognised industry standards. 1.3 The following handbook provides the learning outcomes and assessment strategy for the delivery of Level 2 Award in Retail Knowledge. The handbook is a live document and will be updated should there be any incremental change made. Centres will be informed electronically when changes are made and it will be the responsibility of any recognised centre to ensure the most up to date version of the handbook is used. The document also provides details of the administrative procedures, requirements and responsibilities that are associated with the delivery of vocational qualifications. The handbook is available on the Skillsfirst Awards website This document is copyright but can be copied by any of our recognised centres for the purpose of assessing learners and may also be copied by learners for their own use. 2.0 Skillsfirst Awards 2.1 Data protection Skillsfirst Awards takes the protection of data seriously and to this end has developed a data protection statement outlining how Skillsfirst and our centres, comply with the current legislation on data protection. It is important for centres to read our statement and ensure that our requirements are put in place. It is particularly important that centres make learners aware that data is shared with Skillsfirst Awards. Our policy statement on this and data requirements can be found in our centre handbook on our website Equality and accessibility Equality and accessibility Skillsfirst is committed to giving everyone who wants to gain one of our qualifications an equal opportunity of achieving it in line with current UK legislation and EU directives including the Equality Act 2010 and to ensure this occurs, has in place a policy on diversity and equality which can be found on our website and within our centre handbook. Skillsfirst will ensure that centres use a diversity and equality policy that works together with ours and that they maintain an effective appeals procedure which along with the diversity and equality policy, will be monitored by the external verifier. We expect centres to tell learners how to find and use their own diversity and equality and appeals procedures. Access to assessment Skillsfirst Awards is committed to guaranteeing all learners are treated fairly and equally and to ensure this occurs, has in place a policy on reasonable adjustments and special considerations. This policy states clearly what centres can and in some cases must, put in place to assist learners who may have particular requirements. We expect centres to tell learners how to find and use their own reasonable adjustments and special considerations policy and will monitor implementation through the external verification process. RKA02 v

4 This policy can be accessed at and within our centre handbook. Further advice on this policy and its application can be obtained from our customer services team at 2.3 Enquiries and information sources Skillsfirst aims to provide accurate information in a variety of formats and media. Recognised centres are encouraged to make enquiries to the customer services team, or seek clarification from our website. Learners wishing to enquire about qualifications, aspects of qualifications or quality assurance policies and procedures are encouraged, in the first instance, to seek information from the recognised centre or their tutor/assessor. Where a satisfactory answer is unavailable, learners are encouraged to seek clarification from our website, or from the Skillsfirst customer services team. As a guide, the majority of frequently requested information is available on our website or on request via the electronic helpline listed below. Website: customerservices@skillsfirst.co.uk Tel: Fax: In writing to: Customer Services Skillsfirst Awards Limited Suite 215 Fort Dunlop Fort Parkway Birmingham B24 9FD 2.4 Complaints and appeals Complaints Skillsfirst Awards will endeavour at all times to satisfy our customer s needs and ensure a quality service. There may be times when our centres do not feel we have met these needs. Should they wish, centres may complain in writing to the Skillsfirst Awards customer services manager. We will attempt to resolve all complaints within the published timescales and will record and review all complaints as part of our ongoing customer service commitment. Appeals Skillsfirst Awards aims to ensure that at all times its decisions are fair, consistent and based on valid judgements. However, it is recognised that there may be occasions when a centre or a learner may wish to question a decision made. Skillsfirst Awards therefore has an appeals policy and process which clearly indicates the rights of the centre and the learner to appeal against a range of decisions taken by Skillsfirst. The Skillsfirst Awards appeals policy and process can be accessed on our website and within our centre handbook. Centres are required to have a documented policy and procedure which allows learners to question decisions made by the centre. The final stage of such a procedure may be to appeal to the Skillsfirst Awards external verifier. This policy would form part of the original centre recognition process and its implementation will be monitored by the external verifier. RKA02 v

5 2.5 Malpractice and maladministration Skillsfirst Awards has a responsibility to ensure that malpractice and maladministration is addressed effectively and to publish procedures to centres for dealing with malpractice on the part of learners, centre staff and any others involved in providing the qualification. To meet this requirement, Skillsfirst Awards has a malpractice and maladministration policy and process, the details of which can be accessed on our website The sector skills council for retail 3.1 Skillsmart Retail Limited The Level 2 Award in Retail Knowledge is based on the units developed by Skillsmart Retail Limited but which are now monitored by People1st. Their contact details are: 2nd Floor, Armstrong House 38 Market Square UXBRIDGE UB8 1LH Tel: This handbook provides details from the sector skills council s assessment strategy, which centres will need to apply in order to assess and quality assure the Level 2 Award in Retail Knowledge and includes the: Roles of all those involved in the assessment and quality assurance of the qualification Occupational expertise required by all those involved in the assessment and quality assurance of the qualification Summary of assessment methods The complete assessment strategy is available for view and to download from the People1st website Occupational expertise of those who assess performance, and moderate and verify assessments Deliverers, assessors, and moderators and internal verifiers (IVs) Staff delivering these qualifications must be able to demonstrate that they meet the following occupational expertise requirements. They should: be technically competent in the areas for which they are delivering training and/or have experience of providing training. This knowledge must be at least to the same level as the training being delivered have recent relevant experience in the specific area they will be assessing Assessors must be occupationally competent to make assessment judgments about the level and scope of individual learner skills and understanding in recruitment practice and, occupationally competent to make assessment judgments about the quality of assessment and the assessment process. RKA02 v

6 IVs must be occupationally competent to make recruitment moderation and verification judgments about the quality of assessment and the assessment process. For assessors and IVs, this could be verified by: curriculum vitae and references possession of a relevant qualification corporate membership of a relevant professional institution Assessors and IVs must have achieved, or be working towards achieving, appropriate regulatory body approved unit qualifications for assessment, moderation or verification; Centre staff may undertake more than one role, e.g. tutor and assessor or moderator/iv, but must never internally verify their own assessments. 3.3 Employer direct model Where employers opt for an employer direct model, the qualification requirements for assessors and IVs may be waived. The employer direct model is where colleagues, supervisors and/or managers in the workplace are involved in the assessment process. Under this model, the employer, with the agreement of Skillsfirst may choose between: or achieving the appropriate approved qualifications for assessment/verification demonstrating that their (the employer s) training and development activity undertaken to prepare, validate and review these assessment roles, maps 100% to the National Occupational Standards which these qualifications are based on. The mapping process must be agreed by Skillsfirst as providing the equivalent level of rigour and robustness as achievement of the approved assessment/verification qualification. Each application to use the employer direct model will be considered on an individual organisation and qualification basis and agreed by the qualification regulators, including the sector skills council. Prospective organisations must be able to confirm that their in-house practices conform to the requirements of the standards in association with Skillsfirst. 3.4 Continuous professional development Centres are responsible for ensuring that Deliverers, Assessors and IVs plan and maintain their CPD. All deliverers, assessors and IVs must maintain current competence in recruitment practice to deliver these functions. This can be achieved in many ways, but must be recorded in individual continual professional development (CPD) records that are maintained by the centre. Centres are expected to support their Deliverers, Assessors and IVs in ensuring that their knowledge remains current of the occupational area and of best practice in delivery, mentoring, training, assessment and verification, and that it takes account of any national or legislative developments. Centres may have generic criteria and personnel specifications in addition to the above. 4.0 Summary of assessment methods For this qualification, learners will be required to provide a portfolio of evidence for each unit. RKA02 v

7 4.1 Assessment principles Units will be achieved through the acquisition of evidence by the learner and submission to their assessor. Units may be assessed through a number of different sources and forms, which must meet the requirements of assessment criteria. Assessment should normally be at the learner s workplace, but where the opportunity to assess across the range of standards is unavailable other comparable working environments may be used, following agreement from the external verifier. A holistic approach towards the collection of evidence should be encouraged, assessing activities generated by the whole work experience rather than focusing on specific tasks. e.g. If the learner communicates with a customer whilst engaged in sales activities these can be assessed against both sales and customer service elements. Assessors can only assess in their acknowledged area of occupational competence. Assessors and IVs will be registered with their centre and be accountable to the organisation for their assessment practice. Health and safety of customers/clients and employees must be maintained throughout the assessment process and if any person carrying out assessment or verification activities does not feel that there is due regard to health and safety then that person should refuse to continue with the activity(ies) until satisfied that due regard to health and safety is being taken. 4.2 Characteristics of assessment guidance The learner may produce evidence from a range of examples which should be recorded in some form. A record of evidence will confirm to the assessor their confidence in the learner s breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding in being able to competently meet the functional requirements of all the units. The assessor will need to be assured that the learner can: meet all the learning outcomes of a unit pass all the assessment criteria of a unit An assessor may request additional evidence if they are not satisfied with the evidence presented by the learner. If this occurs, it may need to be agreed in partnership with the learner and the assessor. Professional discussion Professional discussion is encouraged as a supplementary form of evidence to confirm a learner s competence. Such discussions should not be based on a prescribed list of questions but be a structured discussion which enables the assessor to gather relevant evidence to ensure the learner has a firm understanding of the standard being assessed. 4.3 Simulation and witness testimony Simulation or witness testimony is warranted where the centre can demonstrate that performance evidence has been impossible to obtain in the work environment. Simulation Simulation is allowed in all of the units in this qualification. RKA02 v

8 Witness testimony Skillsfirst recognise the use of witness testimony and expert witness testimony as appropriate methods for assessors to collect evidence on candidate s performance. Witness testimonies can be obtained from people that are occupationally competent and who may be familiar with the national occupational standards, such as the learner s line manager. They may also be obtained from people who are not occupationally competent and do not have a knowledge of the national occupational standards such as other people within the learner s workplace, customers and suppliers. The assessor must judge the validity of the witness testimony and these may vary depending on the source. Witness testimonies can only support the assessment process and may remove or reduce the need to collect supplementary evidence. However, centres must comply with Skillsfirst guidance over the occupational competence and briefing of witnesses in the use of witness testimony. 4.4 Recognition of prior learning (RPL) RPL recognises how the contribution of a learner s previous experience could contribute to a qualification. Should any opportunities for RPL be identified, it is important that a complete process of recognising prior experience and learning is undertaken, by ensuring that: it covers relevant or appropriate experience for previous activities, as well as accredited learning and qualifications it is incorporated into the assessment planning, with details of how this will take place mapping of prior learning to the national occupational standards to identify gaps is documented and auditable assessment methods or processes for recognising prior experience and learning, are documented and made available to the external verifier the audit trail covers the whole process and methodology of RPL the authenticity and currency of presented evidence is established by the assessor where observation or expert witness testimony is a unit assessment method requirement, this activity is undertaken after learner registration for the qualification In considering the appropriateness of any single piece of evidence, the following should be considered: Content - the degree to which the content of any previous accredited learning meets the requirements of the national occupational standards against which it is being presented as evidence. Performance and knowledge - the degree to which the previous learning covered both performance and knowledge. Some learning will only have offered and tested the latter, in which case RPL will only recognise the meeting of knowledge requirements. Performance will require further assessment. Although unlikely, the reverse (performance tested but not knowledge) could be true in which case knowledge and understanding would need further assessment. Relevance of context - the degree to which the context of the learning gained and assessed, relates to the current context of learner work roles. If the context was different, assessors will need to satisfy themselves of learners ability to transfer the learning gained into their current setting. Currency - how recently the learning was gained. Learners would need to demonstrate current knowledge and understanding of areas such as legislation, policy and practice etc., which may have changes since the previous learning programmes were undertaken. Authenticity - how the ownership of the evidence is established to ensure it was generated by the learner. RKA02 v

9 5.0 Qualification information 5.1 What is the qualification and credit framework? The qualification and credit framework (QCF) is a way of recognising achievement through the award of credit for units and qualifications. It will provide flexible routes to gaining full qualifications and enable qualifications to be achieved in smaller steps. Units within the framework will have a level (ranging from entry level to level 8) to indicate the level of difficulty. They will also have a credit value to indicate the size of the unit. The QCF will: allow providers to design more flexible programmes, suited to the needs of a wider range of learners describe achievements (credits) to employers, providers and learners in a way that is easy to understand allow learners to accumulate credit, by recognising smaller steps of learning at their own pace allow learners to transfer credits into an electronic learner achievement record, which they will keep for life 5.2 QCF units Each unit has a credit value based on the total number of hours learning required to achieve it, (notional learning). Each 10 hours of learning equals 1 credit, for example, if a unit takes 30 hours of learning, it will receive a credit value of 3. The units vary in credit value. In addition all units have a level which may be different from the qualification in which they can be used. 5.3 QCF terminology Whilst the evidence outcomes required from QCF and NVQ units are the same, the QCF units use different terminology to the NVQ units. The assessment criteria for NVQ units are listed under what you must do and what you must know whereas the QCF units are all listed under the learner can. 5.4 Availability of qualifications To complete a qualification, the minimum credit value must be achieved and each type at each level requires more credit to be achieved. The number of units to achieve this is not fixed, as it is the total credit value that is required. Rules of combination apply to each qualification. Learners can accumulate credit which will allow them to claim award or certificate, as the qualification credit values are achieved. 6.0 Qualification structure This next section provides you with the: number of credits required for each qualification list of available units and their credit value rules of combination learner entry requirements progression opportunities RKA02 v

10 6.1 Number of credits required for each qualification Qual. No. Level Qualification title Number of credits RKA02 2 Level 2 Award in Retail Knowledge Rules of combination To achieve this qualification, learners must achieve a minimum of 9 credits. This must include a minimum of 2 credits from one of the units in Group A, plus a further 7 credits from the remaining units in Group A and/or from any units in Group B. Minimum Guided Learning Hours (GLH) are 49 Maximum Guided Learning Hours (GLH) are List of available units and their credit value The list below gives the unit titles and the credit value of each unit. Group A QCF Skillsfirst Unit title Credit unit No. unit No. value M/502/5821 RKA1 Understanding customer service in the retail sector 3 A/502/5806 RKA2 Understanding the retail selling process 2 J/502/5789 RKA3 Understanding how individuals and teams contribute to the effectiveness of a retail business A/502/5823 RKA4 Understanding how a retail business maintains health and safety on its premises 3 2 Group B QCF Skillsfirst Unit title Credit unit No. unit No. value D/502/5801 RKA5 Understanding retail consumer law 2 K/502/5817 RKA6 Understanding security and loss prevention in a retail business H/502/5797 RKA7 Understanding the handling of customer payments in a retail business F/502/5810 RKA8 Understanding the control, receipt and storage of stock in a retail business A/600/0656 RKA9 Understanding visual merchandising for retail business RKA02 v

11 6.4 Learner entry requirements Formal requirements There are no formal entry requirements for learners undertaking this qualification; however centres must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain evidence for the qualification in the work place. Age restrictions There are no age limits attached to learners undertaking this qualification, unless this is a legal requirement of the process or the environment. Legal considerations There are no formal entry requirements for learners undertaking this qualification however, centres must ensure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain evidence for the qualification in the work place. 6.5 Progression opportunities From level 2 On completion of these qualification(s), learners may progress into employment or to Skillsfirst Level 2 Diploma in Retail Skills. 7.0 The units of learning 7.1 Structure of the units The units in these qualifications are written in a standard format and comprise the following: Skillsfirst reference number unit title level and credit value unit aim learning outcomes which are comprised of a number of assessment criteria relationship to NOS, other qualifications and frameworks assessment guidance notes RKA02 v

12 7.2 Group A RKA02 v

13 RKA1 Understanding customer service in the retail sector RKA02 v

14 RKA1 Understanding customer service in the retail sector Level: 2 Credit value: 3 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of retail customer service. It focuses on standards of customer service and covers how customer complaints and problems are resolved in retail businesses. Learning outcomes There are four learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Understand the effect of customer service on retail business 2. Understand how retail businesses find out about customers needs and preferences 3. Understand the importance to a retail business of customer service standards, policies and procedures 4. Understand how customer complaints and problems are resolved in a retail business Guided learning hours It is recommended that 22 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards (NOS) for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

15 RKA1 Understanding customer service in the retail sector Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Understand the effect of customer service on retail business 1. describe the key features of excellent customer service 2. describe how excellent customer service affects a retail business 3. describe the key features of unsatisfactory customer service 4. describe how unsatisfactory customer service affects a retail business 5. describe the main methods used by retail businesses to maintain and increase customer loyalty Outcome 2 Understand how retail businesses find out about customers needs and preferences 1. describe methods of approaching customers on the sales floor and the questioning and listening techniques for finding out what customers are looking for 2. describe how customer feedback is collected and used to improve customer service Outcome 3 Understand the importance to a retail business of customer service standards, policies and procedures 1. explain the difference between customer service standards, customer service policies and customer service procedures 2. describe the benefits to the customer of customer service standards, policies and procedures 3. describe the benefits to retail businesses of customer service standards, policies and procedures Outcome 4 Understand how customer complaints and problems are resolved in a retail business 1. describe the main types of customer complaints and problems 2. describe techniques for listening to customers expressing concerns about a product or service and for reassuring customers that their concerns have been heard and understood 3. describe the key stages in resolving complaints to the customers satisfaction RKA02 v

16 RKA2 Understanding the retail selling process RKA02 v

17 RKA2 Understanding the retail selling process Level: 2 Credit value: 2 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of the retail selling process. It focuses on the techniques used for identifying and meeting the needs of customers in retail businesses. Learning outcomes There are four learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Understand the five steps of the selling model 2. Understand how questions are used to identify customers needs 3. Understand the benefits and uses of product knowledge 4. Understand how sales are closed Guided learning hours It is recommended that 15 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

18 RKA2 Understanding the retail selling process Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Understand the five steps of the selling model 1. outline the five steps of the selling model 2. explain why an effective rapport needs to be created with customers 3. explain the importance of effective questioning to the sales process 4. explain how linking benefits to product features helps to promote sales 5. explain why products must be matched to customers needs 6. explain the importance of closing the sale Outcome 2 Understand how questions are used to identify customers needs 1. define open and closed questions and state the purpose of each in the selling process 2. define what is meant by probing questions and state the purpose of these in the selling process 3. identify questions which can be used to establish sales opportunities Outcome 3 Understand the benefits and uses of product knowledge 1. explain how comprehensive and up-to-date product knowledge can be used to promote sales 2. describe how the features and benefits of products can be identified and matched to customers needs 3. describe a range of methods for keeping product knowledge up-to-date Outcome 4 Understand how sales are closed 1. state what is meant by a buying signal and describe the main buying signals the salesperson needs to look for 2. describe the main ways of closing sale RKA02 v

19 RKA3 Understanding how individuals and teams contribute to the effectiveness of a retail business RKA02 v

20 RKA3 Understanding how individuals and teams contribute to the effectiveness of a retail business Level: 2 Credit value: 3 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of how to monitor their own performance and develop themselves to achieve higher standards. It looks at how working as a team and using effective communication skills can maximise overall productivity. The unit also covers employment rights and responsibilities. Learning outcomes There are six learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Know the employment rights and responsibilities of an employee and the employer 2. Understand the importance and characteristics of effective team work in retail business 3. Understand the impact of effective communication skills when working in a retail team 4. Understand how the roles and responsibilities of retail teams relate to the structure and function of organisations 5. Understand how to improve personal performance 6. Understand how personal performance contributes to business success Guided learning hours It is recommended that 22 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the National occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

21 RKA3 Understanding how individuals and teams contribute to the effectiveness of a retail business Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Know the employment rights and responsibilities of an employee and the employer 1. state the key requirements in a contract of employment in retail business 2. state which organisations are able to help individuals in the cases of violation of employee rights 3. state the key areas covered by equality legislation 4. state the purpose of laws that promote equality within the workplace 5. define diversity in relation to promoting equality and diversity within the workplace Outcome 2 Understand the importance and characteristics of effective team work in retail business 1. explain what is meant by team work in retail business 2. describe the benefits that team work can bring to team members and to retail business as a whole 3. describe the general qualities and abilities required to be an effective member of a team in retail business Outcome 3 Understand the impact of effective communication skills when working in a retail team 1. describe the relevance and importance of communication skills in clarifying and resolving misunderstandings 2. describe effective methods of communication used within teams 3. describe how poor communication skills can affect a team s performance Outcome 4 Understand how the roles and responsibilities of retail teams relate to the structure and function of organisations 1. describe broad functional teams in retail and identify the different job roles and career pathways within these 2. describe the relationships between different job roles within functional teams and identify the lines of accountability in retail business Outcome 5 Understand how to improve personal performance 1. explain the benefit to individual employees and the retail business as a whole of a personal development plan 2. describe the range of methods available to identify own learning needs 3. explain the main learning styles and state which learning methods and activities suit each style 4. identify potential learning resources available for improving own performance Outcome 6 Understand how personal performance contributes to business success 1. explain how work objectives are agreed and state the benefits they can bring to the individual and the retail business 2. explain how a team s goals impact on the roles and responsibilities of individual team members RKA02 v

22 3. describe the benefits to the retail business of identifying more effective ways of working RKA02 v

23 RKA4 Understanding how a retail business maintains health and safety on its premises RKA02 v

24 RKA4 Understanding how a retail business maintains health and safety on its premises Level: 2 Credit value: 2 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of the procedures required for maintaining health and safety on the premises of retail businesses. It also covers employers and employees responsibilities in terms of legislation and safe working practices. Learning outcomes There are five learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Know the main provisions of health and safety legislation in relation to a retail business 2. Know what actions to take in an emergency 3. Understand the employees responsibilities in reporting hazards and accidents that typically occur on the premises of a retail business 4. Understand safe handling, storage and disposal 5. Understand safe working practices Guided learning hours It is recommended that 15 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

25 RKA4 Understanding how a retail business maintains health and safety on its premises Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Know the main provisions of health and safety legislation in relation to a retail business 1. describe the main legal responsibilities of employees and employers in relation to the relevant health and safety legislation 2. describe the main responsibilities of employees and employers in relation to the control of substances hazardous to health Outcome 2 Know what actions to take in an emergency 1. state when and how to raise an emergency alarm 2. state the actions an employee should take in the event of: fire a bomb alert acute illness or accident 3. state the main stages in an emergency evacuation procedure Outcome 3 Understand the employees responsibilities in reporting hazards and accident that typically occur on the premises of a retail business 1. describe the hazards and associated risks typically found on the premises of a retail business 2. explain why it is important to notice and report hazards 3. state when and to whom a personal accident should be reported Outcome 4 Understand safe handling, storage and disposal 1. describe safe methods for lifting and carrying 2. describe methods for safely handling, removing and disposing of waste and rubbish 3. describe where and how to store dangerous substances and items 4. state the importance and relevance in handling, storing and disposing of substances hazardous to health Outcome 5 Understand safe working practices 1. describe the routine practices which employees need to follow to minimise health and safety risks at work 2. explain why equipment and materials should be used in line with the employer s and manufacturer s instructions RKA02 v

26 7.3 Group B RKA02 v

27 RKA5 Understanding retail consumer law RKA02 v

28 RKA5 Understanding retail consumer law Level: 2 Credit value: 2 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of legislation relevant to consumers. It covers acts such as trade description and data protection, as well as legislation for consumer credit and the provision of licensed and age-restricted products. Learning outcomes There are six learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Understand how consumer legislation protects the rights of customers 2. Know the main provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act in relation to retail 3. Know the main provisions of consumer credit legislation in relation to retail 4. Know the main provisions of data protection legislation in relation to retail 5. Know the main provisions of the law relating to the sale of licensed and age-restricted products 6. Understand the consequences for businesses and employees of contravening retail law Guided learning hours It is recommended that 11 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

29 RKA5 Understanding retail consumer law Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Understand how consumer legislation protects the rights of customers 1. state the purpose of consumer legislation in relation to retail 2. describe the key principles and concepts of consumer legislation such as fitness for purpose, misinterpretation, and merchantable quality Outcome 2 Know the main provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act in relation to retail 1. describe the purpose and main provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act in relation to retail 2. describe retail employees responsibilities under the Trade Descriptions Act Outcome 3 Know the main provisions of consumer credit legislation in relation to retail 1. describe the key legal responsibilities of a retail business and its employees when offering credit facilities to customers Outcome 4 Know the main provisions of data protection legislation in relation to retail 1. describe the key responsibilities and obligations of a retail business and its employees under current data protection legislation Outcome 5 Know the main provisions of the law relating to the sale of licensed and agerestricted products 1. identify the responsibilities and obligations of a retail business and its employees in relation to the sale of licensed goods 2. identify the responsibilities and obligations of a retail business and its employees in relation to the sale of age-restricted goods Outcome 6 Understand the consequences for businesses and employees of contravening retail law 1. describe the legal consequences for businesses and employees of contravening retail law 2. describe the probable commercial consequences and sanctions for employees and businesses of contravening retail law RKA02 v

30 RKA6 Understanding security and loss prevention in a retail business RKA02 v

31 RKA6 Understanding security and loss prevention in a retail business Level: 2 Credit value: 2 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of the impact of crime upon retail business and the precautions and actions which are undertaken to prevent loss and maintain security. Learning outcomes There are four learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Know the range of security risks faced by a retail business 2. Understand the effect which crime has on a retail business and its staff 3. Know what actions can be taken to prevent crime in a retail business 4. Know how security incidents should be dealt with Guided learning hours It is recommended that 15 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

32 RKA6 Understanding security and loss prevention in a retail business Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Know the range of security risks faced by a retail business 1. describe the types of criminal activity which commonly occur in retail businesses 2. identify the types of merchandise at greatest risk of theft and the reason for this Outcome 2 Understand the effect which crime has on a retail business and its staff 1. describe how crime can affect the profits of a retail business 2. describe how crime can affect people working in retail Outcome 3 Know what actions can be taken to prevent crime in a retail business 1. outline actions and precautions typically taken to secure: stock premises cash people information 2. outline actions and precautions that can be taken to reduce staff theft and the resulting loss of stock Outcome 4 Know how security incidents should be dealt with 1. describe what action should be undertaken in the event of an observed or suspected theft 2. describe the steps employees should take to safeguard their own personal security 3. state when security incidents should be referred to senior staff RKA02 v

33 RKA7 Understanding the handling of customer payments in a retail business RKA02 v

34 RKA7 Understanding the handling of customer payments in a retail business Level: 2 Credit value: 2 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of the cashier s responsibilities in terms of processing payments at the payment point within retail businesses. Learning outcomes There are four learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Know the methods of payment accepted from retail customers 2. Understand the risks involved in handling payments 3. Understand the cashier s responsibility for providing service at the payment point 4. Understand the cashier s responsibilities when processing age-restricted goods at the payment point Guided learning hours It is recommended that 20 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

35 RKA7 Understanding the handling of customer payments in a retail business Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Know the methods of payment accepted from retail customers 1. list the methods of payment typically accepted by retail businesses and describe how each is processed Outcome 2 Understand the risks involved in handling payments 1. describe how errors can arise when accepting cash payments at the till, and explain how these can result in losses 2. identify the security risks that may arise when handling payments Outcome 3 Understand the cashier s responsibility for providing service at the payment point 1. outline the cashier s key responsibilities for serving customers at the payment point 2. identify common problems which can arise at the payment point and describe how the cashier can resolve or refer these 3. describe additional services which are often offered to customers at the payment point, such as cash-back or wrapping 4. describe how the cashier can help to promote additional sales at the payment point Outcome 4 Understand the cashier s responsibilities when processing age restricted at the payment point 1. list the types and age restrictions of products which can be sold only to customers, or by employees, who are over a minimum age specified by law 2. state the consequences for the cashier and the business if legal age restrictions are not complied with 3. describe the cashier s responsibilities for helping to ensure that legal age restrictions are complied with RKA02 v

36 RKA8 Understanding the control, receipt and storage of stock in a retail business RKA02 v

37 RKA8 Understanding the control, receipt and storage of stock in a retail business Level: 2 Credit value: 2 Unit aims The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of stock control systems and the procedures for taking delivery of stock in retail businesses. It also covers the different methods of storing and moving stock in order to prevent damage or loss. Learning outcomes There are three learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Understand the importance of having the right stock levels 2. Understand how goods are received on the premises of a retail business 3. Understand how stock should be stored to prevent damage or loss Guided learning hours It is recommended that 20 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

38 RKA8 Understanding the control, receipt and storage of stock in a retail business Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Understand the importance of having the right stock levels 1. describe the purpose of stock control 2. describe the consequences of inaccurate paperwork relating to stock 3. describe how stock levels are maintained and the consequences to the business of not carrying the right levels of stock Outcome 2 Understand how goods are received on the premises of a retail business 1. explain why it is important to know what goods are expected and when they are due to arrive 2. describe how to prepare the receiving area for goods delivery 3. explain why it is important to check the quality and quantity of the goods received 4. describe the procedures for reporting and recording: 5. variations in the quantities of goods received 6. defects in quality, such as damage or breakages 7. state what personal protective equipment should be used within the goods delivery area Outcome 3 Understand how stock should be stored to prevent damage or loss 1. describe the methods of storing stock 2. describe stock handling techniques which prevent damage and loss 3. explain why the quality of stock should be checked regularly and state the possible reasons why stock may deteriorate in storage 4. explain why stock should be stored in order of receipt and describe how this is done RKA02 v

39 RKA9 Understanding visual merchandising for retail business RKA02 v

40 RKA9 Understanding visual merchandising for retail business Level: 2 Credit value: 4 Unit aims This unit provides the learner with the knowledge and understanding of the principles of visual merchandising. It covers the principles of display design and installation. The unit also focuses on the importance of visual merchandising in relation to brand identity. Learning outcomes There are five learning outcomes to this unit. The learner will be able to: 1. Understand the importance window displays have in translating the retailer s identity to the customer 2. Understand how events and props are used to promote merchandise in a retail environment 3. Understand how to plan and install window and store displays 4. Understand how floor layouts and product adjacencies maximise sales 5. Understand the importance of product preparation and handling in visual merchandising Guided learning hours It is recommended that 40 hours should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full-time or parttime basis. Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) This unit is linked to the national occupational standards for retail. Endorsement of the unit by a sector or other appropriate body This unit is endorsed by Skillsmart Retail, the sector skills council for retail. RKA02 v

41 RKA9 Understanding visual merchandising for retail business Learning outcomes and assessment criteria Outcome 1 Understand the importance window displays have in translating the retailer s identity to the customer 1. describe how to translate brand image to the customer through window displays 2. describe the different types of visual messages that retailers can showcase through window displays Outcome 2 Understand how events and props are used to promote merchandise in a retail environment 1. describe how different seasonal and calendar events are applied through window and/or in-store displays in order to support brand identity 2. explain how different props can be used in window and/or in-store displays to support brand identity Outcome 3 Understand how to plan and install window and store displays 1. identify the basic principles of colour theory 2. identify basic design principles and elements used in retail displays 3. describe the methods used to produce and record simple design plans 4. describe how to make best use of the space allocated 5. describe basic principles for preparing fixtures and fittings and installing props safely 6. identify the tools and equipment required to install a themed display Outcome 4 Understand how floor layouts and product adjacencies maximise sales 1. describe why it is important to change a floor layout in order to maximise sales 2. describe what is meant by product adjacencies 3. describe the benefits of displaying specific products in different locations Outcome 5 Understand the importance of product preparation and handling in visual merchandising 1. explain why products may need cleaning and polishing before being displayed 2. describe why it is important to handle products carefully RKA02 v

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