QQI Accreditation

Qualifications and Quality Ireland (QQI) is the sole statutory awarding body for nationally-accredited training in the Republic of Ireland.

QQI is the sole awarding body in the Republic of Ireland for all awards on the National Framework of Qualifications. The National Framework of Qualifications is a ten-level scale of learning achievement. The scale is represented by the “fan” diagram (below).

Ireland is one of several countries (36 at time of writing) whose frameworks are formally linked (‘referenced’) to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). The purpose of the framework system is to facilitate the mutual recognition of learning achievement across the participating countries.

First Polymer Training (FPTS) Skillnet offers a series of QQI validated programmes at Levels 5 and 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications. FPTS has been providing programmes leading to QQI (formerly FETAC) awards since 2000.

Ref: www.qqi.ie

Fan picture1.png

QQI Awards are based on defined learning outcomes the assessment of which is conducted according to documented assessment techniques and weightings. These programme characteristics are contained in Award Specifications which are the outcome of a Standards Developments process which QQI conducts for all new awards. FPTS in common with all training providers who are delivering QQI accredited programmes, are required to validate their programmes with QQI to ensure compliance with the Award Specifications.

FPTS has been at the forefront of the development of the polymer processing Award Specifications because we are part of the Standards Development Group who develop and review these awards.

QQI now permit training providers to develop new programmes by defining their own learning outcomes and assessments. QQI still validate the programmes, but this validation does not take place in the context of an existing Award Specification.