Accreditation FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to hold a virtual training course?

A: As a temporary measure, IWCF’s Board of Directors have approved the introduction of virtual classroom training. This solution allows us to accommodate the requirement for training during the COVID-19 pandemic, whilst maintaining our high standards and integrity. We are committed to collaborating with our accredited centres to ensure this can be delivered effectively to candidates globally.

Candidates must complete all assessments including practical assessments at an accredited centre once social distancing measures are lifted. There will be a maximum time of 90 days to complete assessments following training however this will be monitored in line with government advice regarding travel.

Accredited training centres can now apply to offer virtual classroom training to candidates. Accredited Centres can download the guidance and application information from our Members Login Area or can contact our accreditation team to request these documents.

As virtual training applications are approved, we will update our dedicated virtual training website page as well as our website locations map to show this as an additional delivery option. (On the map, you can search for them by using the the ‘Programmes’ filter and selecting ‘Virtual Training.’)

How do you become an IWCF accredited training centre?

A: The first step to becoming an accredited training centre is to become a member of IWCF.  You can find out more about IWCF Membership here.  

Once your membership has been approved you can download the accreditation application pack from the Members Login Area. The application will require supplementary evidence to be submitted for physical resources, management resources, staff resources and course materials.  

You can contact the Accreditation Team on accreditation@iwcf.org to arrange a call to discuss your application further.  

Q: What is the difference between primary and associate centres?

A: The primary centre is the main centre for any organisation, usually but not necessarily the business address. This will be a permanent facility with secure storage for records. The instructors, assessors and course materials will be registered to the primary centre. 

The associate centre is a subsidiary of the primary centre. It should be a permanent facility and can use the instructors, assessors and course materials registered to the primary centre. Associate centres are subject to audit by IWCF. 

As the primary centre manages the associate centre, the primary centre accreditation may be at risk if the associate centre is non-compliant. 

Q: When will the primary centre be audited?

A: Primary centres are audited on the first course.  

Q: How do primary centres add associate centres?

A: The process for accrediting an associate centre is the same as for a primary centre. Assessor, instructors and course materials are inherited from the Primary Centre 

Q: Do primary and associate centres renew their accreditation?

A:  All primary and associate centres renew their accreditation annually. 

Please note only one associate centre renewal fee will be charged regardless of the number of associate centres which are renewed. 

Q: What are the fees for centre accreditation?

A: All fees are documented in our Schedule of Fees which can be found here. This is updated annually and is subject to change.

Q: How long will it take to review an accreditation application?

A:  The accreditation team require 20 working days to review applications. Please note processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications submitted.  

Q: I'm interested in becoming an accredited Instructor or Assessor. What do I need to do?

A: Please visit our Instructor and Assessor pages for further information and course calendar dates. Alternatively, you can email accreditation@iwcf.org for assistance.