REPs Magazine Fitness Matters Issue 9 | Page 8

TRAIN EAT WORK TRENDING REPS TRAINING PROVIDERS: AN INSIDE VIEW In the second series of reports from providers of training to REPs members, we find out how an External Quality Assurer (EQA) can help you – the learner – get top value for your courses. Q & A CanRehab are providers of evidence-based, specialist training in cancer and exercise for health and fitness professionals. What’s an EQA visit like? The first time we had an EQA visit was nerve-wracking. I thought it would be a telling off process! Instead I have learned it’s a two-way interaction. For example, we provide evidence that the policies and procedures we have in place are indeed being carried out, and the EQA gives updates as to any current changes of policies we need to be aware of. Q 8 FM What benefit does an EQA visit bring? I see it as our ‘stop and think’ moment in the CanRehab calendar. It’s so important to have someone who is completely impartial and professional to reflect back to us what they see. Not only that, they encourage us to remember to take advantage of the ways in which PD:Approval supports our business. Q What support were you offered? The assessor provided a comprehensive list of evidence required prior to her visit. The visit guide booklet clarified exactly what the aims were of Q www.exerciseregister.org the visit, and how they would be undertaken. It is very reassuring that our EQA inspector is knowledgeable about this sector. This made it easy for the process to run smoothly and she was contactable at every stage. How was your Assurer? The tutor she shadowed commented on the fact she was ‘unobtrusive, did not disrupt the day, was lovely with the students and maintained a professional objective air throughout’. Q Please provide three words that sum up your EQA experience. Essential, positive, supportive. Q