Accreditation of Learning Solutions

Background:

Since the launch of the FSSC Accreditation of Training Excellence for Firms and Providers schemes, there has been interest expressed by firms and providers in the financial service industry to the FSSC in some form of recognition or accreditation for their “off the shelf” learning solutions.

The FSSC consultation was held in Q2 2007 and was focused on the level of demand and scope for an Accreditation of Learning Solutions scheme. An employer event was held in London on 17 April and a provider event on 19 April, followed by online consultation.

The scheme will be given the green light if there is a clear gap in the marketplace, industry demand and funding for the development of the scheme. 

What is the Accreditation of Learning Solution Scheme?

The proposed accreditation scheme is aimed at learning solutions that are:

• non-customised
• performance results reported back to learners only
• low employer engagement – focused on meeting business sector/group needs

For example open courses, e-learning, CD-ROMs, in-house learning materials, and work books. This is likely to be for generic or regulatory topics, as specialist and technical topics are mostly delivered as tailored training solutions to meet employer’s specific needs.

The proposed scheme will exclude learning solutions that are qualifications within FSSC Appropriate Exams or Recommended Exams lists. Applicants whose learning solutions fit within this area will be directed to the appropriate route for recognition, e.g. FSSC Standards for Appropriate Examinations and/or appropriate awarding bodies.

Likewise, providers who wish for the validity and merit of the “technical/knowledge” content of their learning solution to be assessed/accredited will be directed to an appropriate authority as this requires specialist knowledge that would differ from solution to solution.

Further Information

Please review the Consultation Feedback & Outline Proposal document.

For the latest information on the scheme development, please contact accreditation on 0845 618 2369 or accreditation@fssc.org.uk