There are four phases in the accreditation process. Please see each stage explained below, to find out what is involved.
Pre-assessment
- Your organisation undertakes a comprehensive and detailed self-audit of current practice
- Implementation of accreditation action plan based on the self-audit with your adviser
- Introductory meeting is held within the first four months of registration with your adviser
- Action planning meeting is held within the first eight months of registration with your adviser
Assessment
- Assessment planning with your adviser to plan the format of your assessment and what to expect
- Assessment days include observation of practice, oversight of key person centred documentation, and discussions with key people within the provision (including autistic people where relevant)
- Observations may also be undertaken by an independent moderator
- Online accreditation survey is sent to families and/or autistic people
- A report summary of assessment findings, areas of strength and development is produced by the adviser and sent to the awarding body
Award outcomes
- Outcomes are measured against specific criteria that must be met and demonstated in order to achieve one of the following stages of 'aspiring', 'accredited' and 'advanced'.
- A licence to use the Autism Accreditation mark is issued along with a certificate for organisations who achieve accredited status and above.
What next?
- Accredited status will be reconfirmed every six months with a full assessment every three years.
- Enhanced practice commendations can be gained for specific projects and pieces of work by submitting an application to be considered for recognition after accredited status is achieved.
- Exclusive access to Autism Accreditation networking events
Additional member benefits
Once your organisation is accredited, you'll be able to enjoy the following benefits:
- use of the Autism Accreditation logo on promotional materials once accredited status is granted, and licence agreement signed
- press pack containing guidance on how to publicise your accreditation achievement externally
- invitations to free accreditation and raising the standards days - look back at past events
- 10% discount to National Autistic Society conferences and training events
- opportunity for staff continued professional development by joining our assessment teams
- access to the wider Autism Accreditation Community.
Join accreditation today