Cascade assessor training launched

Centrex has launched a new programme to help forces develop “cascades” of assessor training and assessment.

National programmes and strategies for development within the service are increasingly underpinned by assessment against National Occupational Standards (NOS).

A vital part of the NOS scheme is accompanying protocols which require assessors to be trained in their role – either achieving the A1 assessor standard or having undergone training in assessment practice.

The process of achieving A1 standard can be time consuming, costly and take police resources. Candidates must be assessed by two qualified A1 assessors, which requires forces to take an incremental approach to developing A1 standard assessors.

Appropriate training would enable forces to meet the immediate demand of assessment, whilst working to implement a strategy to increase the number of A1 accredited assessors over time.

Centrex, to support forces in making the first step towards this incremental growth of appropriately trained assessors, has developed a programme which can enable an in-force cascade of assessor training and assessment in the police context.

The programme consists of a two-day workshop aimed at personnel currently in possession of their A1 (D32/33) award and an appropriate training qualification. In addition they need to be currently working in a workforce development role. The aim is to equip trainers to cascade assessor training locally to respond to local need and demand.

Workshops will be held in the week commencing November 28, 2005 at two locations (Bradford and Daventry). Attendance is free of charge for police forces, however places are limited. Further details will be circulated to Force Training Managers.

For further information about this project please contact Dr Rachel Cragg at Centrex by e-mail at rachel.cragg@centrex.pnn.police.uk.