GQA ’ s Accredited Training service is aimed at employers in the industry who want to have their in-house training endorsed by GQA Qualifications and gives them the opportunity to deliver training that focuses on candidates ’ particular needs specific to their role with the employer .

Commenting on the service , GQA ’ s EQA / Technical Officer , Martin Sadler says :

“ Using our Accredited Training service means that employers can develop their own training to suit their employees or their customers ’ needs with the GQA stamp of approval to show the quality of the training delivered . The GQA-branded certificate we offer is an important tool and highlights the third party endorsement we bring . We can also help to develop specific courses in the consultation phase of our collaboration .”

GQA ’ s Bespoke Qualification service is aimed at employers who wish to be able to offer those staff undertaking very specific roles the opportunity to work towards gaining a qualification where one does not already exist . The service is perfect for niche specialist areas which do not lend themselves to meeting the required content of a standard regulated qualification . In close consultation with the company concerned , GQA will develop a qualification that meets the needs of the organisation and the people who require it . Martin continues : “ It is disappointing when people in specific , specialist job functions are not able to develop their careers by working towards achieving a qualification because a relevant regulated option is not available . This is where our Bespoke Qualification service can help . Developing

a qualification tailored specifically to them , which carries the approval of GQA , means that employees can fully prove their competency , and employers can put into place for them a career progression route . Once developed , the qualification is exclusive to the employers concerned .”

“ Both our Accredited Training and Bespoke Qualification services are proving extremely popular . They demonstrate the need for a flexible approach to training . Here at GQA we have close to 200 qualifications covering a broad variety of sectors . The fenestration industry , just like any other , needs training solutions tailored to its specific needs . I ’ m proud that we are helping to facilitate this and contributing to raising standards and assisting in shaping careers .”

GQA helps Schuco develop bespoke solutions

Demonstrating perfectly the way that GQA ’ s ‘ Bespoke Qualification ’ service operates is work done recently with Schüco UK Ltd , one of the leading suppliers of high-quality system solutions for windows , doors façades , sliding systems , security technology and sun shading .

When Schüco wished to create a curtain wall theory Level 2 award , tailored to the needs of its curtain wall installers to back up its existing practical training course , the company turned to this specialist service from the fenestration industry ’ s leading awarding and qualifications-writing organisation .

Grenville Bramley , Training and Development Manager at Schüco UK Ltd explains :

“ We knew that if we got this right the award would act as an excellent means of CPD for our curtain wall installers ,

thereby helping to raise and maintain standards . It is wonderful to help to develop the skills and expertise of our installers in this way . It ’ s good for the installers , and in turn helps us to differentiate ourselves from competitors . At the end of the process , installers qualifying for the award receive a certificate carrying the GQA logo alongside our own , which we find candidates prefer .

Having the bespoke qualification that is audited by GQA stands us apart from other _companies

“ The whole process of putting together the bespoke qualification was straightforward , and resulted in the development of a close partnership with GQA . Initially , we sketched out our course material and then worked with GQA to ensure its suitability . Then we created the exam and went through it with them to check it was pitched at the right level . Having been audited carefully by GQA we have the confidence that the new , tailored qualification is fit for purpose .

“ Having the bespoke qualification that is audited by GQA stands

us apart from other companies who simply offer their staff their own training . In the future , I believe Schüco could develop more of them so that candidates can cherry pick what they need and put them together to create something very special . In the shortterm the company will develop at least two more .”

More information on GQA ’ s bespoke qualifications writing service and range of industry qualifications can be found at www . gqaqualifications . com