External Validation – Is it important?
In a word, Yes for any training course it is very important. Many people buy products because they like the packaging. The packaging is bright and shiny and looks good. Unfortunately the content often disappoints.
One of the ways you can ensure quality in your chosen training course is to select a training that is externally validated. Our course for instance has 3 distinct levels of assessment and validation built in to the HPD Portfolio submission.
The portfolio submission must provide evidence that students on the course have been taught certain learning outcomes and the student can map and evidence the learning outcomes within their portfolio. Naturally if the student has not been taught to certain standards they will be unable to do this. Our training is first assessed by the trainers, and then submitted for further validation to NCH (The National Council for Hypnotherapy) and then finally is externally validated by NCFE.
As the trainers, NCH and NCFE all know the standards expected. It can be rejected at any stage. So when you receive your HPD qualification you will know you deserve it and have provided a standard of work and knowledge that meets a nationally agreed standard.
So in summary – yes! external validation is very important. It ensures standards in training are maintained for both student and trainers!