S10: Use Digital Communication Technologies Effectively and Appropriately for Internal and External Communications
Assessment Method: Professional Discussion underpinned by a portfolio
Plain-English Explanation
S10 is about using digital communication tools—like email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and collaboration platforms—professionally and effectively. It means choosing the right tool for the situation and maintaining a clear, respectful, and secure communication style.
Examples of How Apprentices Demonstrate This at Work
Sending a professional email to a client and using mailbox rules to organize responses
Using Microsoft Teams for quick internal updates and video calls for detailed discussions
Sharing documents securely through OneDrive or SharePoint instead of email attachments
Creating a Power Automate flow to send automated notifications or meeting reminders
Using appropriate tone and language for different audiences (internal vs external)
Common Gaps and Misconceptions
Thinking all communication can be done via email—sometimes a call or chat is better
Using informal language in professional contexts
Forgetting to check accessibility (e.g., captions on video calls)
Ignoring security when sharing sensitive information
Links to Resources and Tools
Podcast: Communicating Effectively in a Digital Workplace (Insert your podcast link here)
Why It Matters
Builds trust and avoids misunderstandings
Improves collaboration and productivity
Ensures professionalism and compliance in all communications
Portfolio Evidence Ideas
Screenshots of:
A well-structured email or Teams message
A Power Automate flow for sending notifications
Mailbox rules for managing communication efficiently
A short write-up explaining how you adapted your communication for a specific audience or situation
EPA-Style Questions
How do you decide which communication channel to use for a given situation?
Can you give an example of when you adapted your communication for an external stakeholder?
Why is it important to maintain professionalism in digital communication?
Embedded Topics
Equality & Diversity: Ensuring communication is inclusive and accessible
Sustainability: Reducing unnecessary travel by using digital communication tools
British Values: Respect and tolerance in all forms of communication