Endorsed Programmes
What is an Endorsed Programme?
An endorsed programme is a customised learning or training course that is recognised or accredited by Occupational Awards Limited (OAL). Unlike formal qualifications, an endorsed programme does not lead to a regulated qualification. Instead, it validates the quality, content, and structure of the course, ensuring it meets specific industry or educational standards.
These programmes are developed and delivered by employers, training providers, colleges, or other OAL-approved centres. They are submitted to OAL for review and evaluation against our endorsed programme criteria.
Endorsed Programmes are learning programmes or courses created by your organisation and endorsed by OAL. They must have clearly defined, measurable learning outcomes that demonstrate what learners will be able to achieve upon completion. If required, we can offer additional support to help you meet these standards as part of our bespoke support package.
- Tailored and Flexible: You create the programme you want, or already have, without having to jump through the hoops of regulation. You even get to decide whether you want to issue a certificate or not!
- Externally Recognised: OAL’s endorsement ensures your course/programme, is relevant, valued and respected within your organisation and in your sector.
- Quality Assured: OAL’s initial and annual review of your programme, gives you and your learners the reassurance that your training is meeting the quality requirements of an industry leading Awarding Organisation
- Retain Control: The intellectual property rights remain with you. Unlike a Regulated Qualification, the learning outcomes and assessment criteria remain private to you and out of the public domain. This means you can change and update your programme at pace, just remember to inform OAL so we can quickly quality assure and changes!
What is the difference between a regulated qualification, an Accredited Programme and an endorsed programme?
The regulated qualifications sector can be complex and sometimes challenging to navigate. In order to be classed as an Awarding Organisation in England, OAL must meet very strict criteria and regulations that are set and enforced by Ofqual. The regulations set specific criteria and conditions that qualifications must meet, if they are to be recognised by Ofqual. Non-regulated qualifications and endorsed programmes, whilst still having certain minimum standards, which are set by the Awarding Organisation, are much more flexible and adaptable to change. The table via the button below details some of the key differences between Regulated, Non-Regulated and Endorsed and the minimum requirements of each.
Are Endorsed Programmes certificated by OAL?
You have the option to choose, whether OAL are issuing a certificate for your programme or if we are just endorsing the quality of it and you are producing your own attendance certificate. However, we must ensure any certificate produced cannot be confused with a certificate for a regulated qualification. We must ensure certain conventions are met in the design of any certificate, whether that is issued by you or OAL.
If you want OAL to issue a certificate, then each individual learner would need to be registered with us through the OAL Portal (Creatio) which would incur a registration fee per learner.
If you do not want us to issue a certificate then there would be no registration fee, just your annual centre fee, and any agreed fees for the annual quality assurance review of your programme.
Benefits of OAL Endorsed Programmes
Endorsed programmes give organisations the ability to offer unique, customised learning solutions that directly meet the needs of their business and/or their customers. Whilst ensuring that the quality and content of the programme is recognised and endorsed by an external and Ofqual regulated Awarding Organisation. When OAL endorses a programme, it signals confidence in your ability to deliver high-quality training within your areas of expertise. This gives your learners the comfort and confidence that the programme they are on, is one that has been endorsed by OAL.
- Competitive Advantage Offering externally endorsed; high-quality programmes position your organisation as a leader in professional development within your sector.
- Trusted Recognition Boost credibility with OAL’s official endorsement behind your programmes.
- Tailored Learning Design bespoke training that directly addresses the specific needs of your business and industry, ensuring your workforce gains the most relevant skills and knowledge.
- Increased Trust and Confidence OAL’s endorsement provides assurance to employers and learners alike that your training meets high-quality, industry-relevant standards.
- Flexibility in Delivery: Structure and deliver programmes in a way that best suits your organisation — whether face-to-face, online, or through blended learning approaches.
How do I create an Endorsed Programme with OAL?
Simply complete the online enquiry form via the “enquire now” button and a member of the OAL Team will be in touch to arrange an initial meeting to explore the best options for you and your business. We want to add value to what you do, and this initial meeting will help us understand your objectives and enable us to support you in succeeding and surpassing your expectations.