The Endorsement Process, Step by Step
Initial Steps
The programme organisers approach AIEB through the Coordinator to discuss the possibility of pursuing endorsement. Following this initial consultation, the providers will be advised whether they should proceed or not.
If proceeding the programme organisers should formally register their intention to proceed by completing the online endorsement application form on the AIEB website to register their intention to proceed.
Submission
Programme organisers compile a submission which is returned to the Coordinator for initial checking and consideration. At this point, it may be apparent that the programme may not or does not meet the criteria for endorsement. In this case the provider may be encouraged to defer the application and given some ideas about how to develop it.
While preparing for submission, education providers should ensure that the documentation submitted:
- Demonstrates that the education programme/course is consistent with community work and development values and as outlined in the All Ireland Standards and National Occupational Standards (in the case of NI).
- Demonstrates and illustrates how to undertake community work and community development & use community work and development approaches which recognise the needs of the community; the needs of the employers; the role of other agencies and professionals.
- Demonstrates methods for the recognition of prior learning and experiential learning.
- Demonstrates the relationship between theory and practice within both institution and practice based elements.
Submission Review & Visit
If fully completed, the submission is reviewed by the AIEB Coordinator and a member of AIEB who assess the application against the criteria and make a report based on the guidelines highlighting areas for further exploration by the peer reviewers.
Three peer reviewers drawn from a spectrum of members of AIEB carry out a programme visit and meet with the programme stakeholders, e.g., staff, senior management, students, graduates, fieldwork supervisors etc. The reviewers make a final report with recommendations which is returned to AIEB.
Decision & Feedback
AIEB convenes to approve the peer review report and proposed decision with associated conditions and recommendations. The AIEB Coordinator informs the provider of the decision. If conditions or recommendations are attached, they must be submitted to AIEB by an agreed date and may require a further onsite review visit.
The provider has a right of appeal against the process and outcome; an appeals panel will be convened on receipt of a written appeal citing the nature of the appeal.
For more information, please contact enquiries@aieb.ie
