The benefits of Accredited Training Programmes - by Esther Patrick, Creative Design Manager at Keystone Training Ltd

A few of the benefits we've found when delivering accredited programmes for clients (in this case, Institute of Leadership and Management - ILM) are: - The programme may be seen by delegates as more aspirational, with a 'buzz' created about getting on to it. 

 The programme has to meet the awarding body's quality standards, so you get a recognised external validation of the content, structure and quality which can add confidence for delegates and stakeholders. 

Accrediting employee development can help with winning tenders, where the company's approach to people development is a factor. - It can make the organisation more attractive to job seekers and add to its reputation, which can indirectly benefit retention of existing staff. Because accrediting a programme takes some time and effort, it shows that as a company, you take development and progression seriously. 

Of course, so do many companies without accredited programmes! But perceptions can be very powerful. Any cons? Only that you should never compromise your programme for the sake of accreditation. We've found some training companies or clients create what they think is needed for an accredited programme, and it's often a chalk-and-talk journey through the unit criteria as listed in the specifications! There's actually a lot of flexibility to keep the content and delivery fresh, innovative and engaging. 

That also goes for any assignments required as a result of the accreditation. Take advice from the awarding body so you can meet their needs without compromising yours. One option we like with the ILM is that they can offer Endorsed or Development programmes, which is effectively a way of quality checking and approving your existing programme without it having to meet the full specifications for 'proper' (on the QCF) accredited programmes. This can be a good option if you're happy with your current programme, it's not a great fit for any of their qualification specs, and you don't want to make big changes to it. 

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