Here are some points to mull over before choosing your Training Provider and Course. Choice is dependent on individual needs and wants, so you need to make the choice.
However, there are 3 Points of Guidance which we feel we must make:
1. Ensure you choose a course accredited by a reputable accreditation body such as ACCRIN. When you have a moment, have a look at the ACCRIN Standards and Evidence page under Training Providers. This will demonstrate to you the rigorous and demanding process that our Training Providers require to go through to achieve accreditation.
2. Choose an accredited Training Provider and ensure that you can get a certificate from your Provider and an additional Certified Certificate from the accrediting body, such as ACCRIN. The Certified Certificate from the accreditation body is essential, as any employer who wishes verification/affirmation of the certificate will want to contact the accrediting body. Have a look at sample ACCRIN CertifiedTraining Certificates on the Sample Certificates page.
Some Thoughts on Choosing Your Training Provider and Course
1. The initial customer experience
When contacting the Provider initially, what’s your gut feeling? Does
the person at the end of the phone ‘know their stuff’? Do they take time
to answer all your queries? Do they ask if you have any special needs?
What do they say about accreditation? Are they accredited and by whom?
What’s their standpoint on face-to-face courses and online or distance
learning – do they cover all of them or do they dismiss one type because
they do not offer it? What trainer support is available with online or
distance learning? What empathy and understanding is shown? You should
have a pretty good indication by the end of your call as to whether you
want to deal with them or not.
2. Training Provider credentials
Explore the Provider’s credentials. Are they accredited? By whom? Will the course and qualification level match your needs?
3. Your needs and wants
Deciding on the type of course is clearly down to individual choice,
needs and wants. If you are a person who likes to study with a trainer
on hand and likes to be part of a learning group, then a face-to-face
course is likely to be high on your list. However, if you have work or
family commitments and you are not too fazed about face-to-face trainer
support or being part of a learning group, an online or distance
learning course may just be right for you. In addition, if you have any
special needs, ensure your face-to-face Course Provider can meet these
needs before you register and pay for the course.
4. Pace
Pace is an important element. Do you prefer to go at the trainer’s pace
or your own pace? A face-to-face course will run to a set schedule but
an open or distance learning course will give you the opportunity to
study at your own pace.
5. Cost
If this is an issue for you, then you need to consider the additional
travel and accommodation costs involved in attending a face-to-face
course. However, does this overcome the need to have your trainer on
hand and your desire to meet up with other Participants?
