To submit an apprentice for gateway, training providers must ensure that all required documentation and evidence are complete, accurate, and aligned with the relevant apprenticeship standard.
Gateway Declaration Form (GDF1)
For all standards, EAL requires the completion of a Gateway Declaration Form (GDF1).
A single GDF1 form is used across the majority of standards
The only exception is Engineering Technician, which has its own standard-specific gateway form
The GDF1 form must:
Be fully completed
Be signed by all three parties:
The apprentice
The employer
The training provider
Be dated within the last 6 months at the point of gateway submission
This form confirms that all parties agree the apprentice is ready to progress to end-point assessment.
Standard-Specific Gateway Requirements
In addition to the GDF1, each apprenticeship standard has its own gateway evidence requirements, as defined in its Assessment Plan. These may include (depending on the standard):
Evidence of completed mandatory qualifications
Records of on-programme training completion
Portfolio or logbook evidence
Employer confirmation of competence
Any other required documentation specific to the standard
Where to Find Gateway Requirements
Training providers should refer to the Skills England website for full details of each standard’s gateway components:
Each standard page includes:
The Assessment Plan
A clear breakdown of all gateway requirements and evidence