New BIFM Qualifications

When BIFM became recognised as an Awarding Organisation by Ofqual in March 2008, it embarked on a project to develop a clear framework for career progression in Facilities Management.  This has resulted in the development of a new suite of qualifications in Facilities Management at Levels 4, 5 and 6 which have been approved by Ofqual and are due to be accredited onto the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) shortly.  These are available through BIFM Recognised Centres.   This development allowed for  fundamental changes to be made to the structure and delivery of BIFM qualifications so that they are consistent with the regulatory requirements of the QCF.

The QCF 

The QCF is the new framework for creating and accrediting qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland,  The QCF recognises small steps of learning enabling learnes to build up qualifications bit by bit.  It also helps learners achieve skills and qualifications that meet industry requirements.  Employer training programmes can also be recognised and formally accredited. 

All qualifications in the QCF are built from small units of learning, with each unit and qualification having a credit value.  This credit value represents how much time it takes to complete - 1 credit represents 10 hours).  The level of the unit or qualifications shows how difficult it is. 

Within each level, there are three sizes of qualification:

• Award (1 to 12 credits)
• Certificate (13 - 36 credits)
• Diploma (37 credits or more)

Benefits

• The new BIFM qualifications will offer increased flexibility by giving greater recognition of work based learning.

• They are designed to meet the needs of learners within the Facilities Management industry according to their role within their organisation.
• There will be more opportunities to undertake specific units relevant to their work role and accumulate credits towards the achievement of an award, certificate or diploma.
• It will be possible for a variety of assessment methods to be used, particularly where learners and employers are keen to use the learning within the occupational role to count towards their evidence of achievement. 
• It will enable learners to complete units at a pace to suit their individual needs.
• Employers have the opportunity to have their in-house training programme recognised and also to have bespoke units developed to suit specific industry requirements.

In addition to the development of the new BIFM Qualifications at Levels 4, 5 and 6, the ILM (Institute of Leadership and Management) in conjunction with BIFM developed Level 3 FM Qualifications which are available now.  These are ideal for those seeking a recognised FM qualification at the early stage of their career