Buttercups Training has Matrix Standard Accreditation
Buttercups Training has achieved “Matrix Standard” accreditation for its IAG (information, advice and guidance). The matrix Standard is the national Quality Mark for any organisations that deliver information, advice and guidance on learning and work.
Benefits of the Matrix Standard
There are many benefits to working towards Matrix Accreditation, listed below are some benefits that organisations have pointed out.
- Improved systems.
- Resources better deployed.
- Growth in internal capacity and productivity.
- Continuous improvement as a way of life.
- Robust relationship between strategy and operations.
- A boost to confidence and competence.
- Improved team working.
- A valuable feel-good factor.
- Clear payback on the investment in information, advice and guidance support.
Strengths
“Buttercups Training demonstrated a flexible, bespoke service for students, which enabled learners to access a wide range of support and resources appropriate to them, thus empowering them to concentrate on the learning rather than the accessibility of the course.”
Areas for Continuous Improvement
"Feedback mechanisms are in place to ensure Buttercups Training is fully aware of issues relating to a student’s learning and to evaluate appropriately."
The 8 guiding principles of the Matrix Standard
In order to be awarded the “Matrix Standard” accreditation Buttercups Training had to be assessed following the 8 guiding principles of the Matrix Standard.
Working together with its staff, customers and partners, Buttercups Training is committed to following the principles of the Matrix IAG quality standard.
Each of the 8 guiding principles are covered by one of the green panels below. Click a panel to expand it and see some of the quotes that have been taken directly from the Matrix Assessor's report that relate directly to that guiding principle (please note: some words have been changed from Matrix’s own publication for easier understanding).
Guidance Principle 1) People are made aware of what Buttercups does and how to use Buttercups Training’s services. Promotion ensures the accessibility of information about the service.
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"The Assessor found Buttercups Training to be clear about the areas of their specialism and the means by which they would attract learners." "Buttercups Training were found to be fully aware of the nature of their client group and were able to develop promotional activities to best meet the needs of the individuals and organisations likely to access training."
Guidance Principle 2) People use Buttercups Training clearly understanding the services they use. Defining and understanding the service available and clarifying key policies and practices.
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"Those interviewed were clear about the IAG support on offer." "Students were clear about confidentiality and diversity and all those interviewed were able to remember discussing relevant policies during induction".
Guidance Principle 3) People are provided with access to information and support using it. Providing information in accessible forms and assisting people to use it.
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"The website is a significant resource for those wishing to enter or develop within the specialised areas offered and includes links to monitored and relevant websites and organisations." "It is understood by all staff that to retain a market leading position, information relevant to the area of work has to be accurate relevant and up to date." "All students interviewed believed the information on offer was relevant to their needs and was explained well to them. Information was not given for the sake of it, but carefully measured depending on the needs of the users and their ability to understand and use it."
Guidance Principle 4) People are supported in exploring options and making choices. Providing information, advice and/or guidance to assist people to review choices.
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"All students interviewed were able to describe the initial and ongoing support they had received from Buttercups Training. All believed the service was impartial and none had felt pressured into accessing the helpline or the website, although they had been encouraged to do so." "Staff were able to describe how they were able to remain impartial. All staff were clear that within their student cohort, it was their responsibility to help and support in any way possible, including referral to other services."
Guidance Principle 5) Service delivery is planned and maintained. Defining measurable aims and objectives and setting up systems to deliver the service.
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"Within the staff and management teams, there is an understanding of how IAG supports the realisation of the main aim." "All staff were able to describe examples of how they have a voice both formally and informally within the company."
Guidance Principle 6) Staff competence and support they are given are sufficient to deliver the service. Maintaining and developing the competence of those delivering the service.
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"All staff were occupationally competent and there were internal referral systems in place to ensure all staff had access to colleagues and managers when necessary."
Guidance Principle 7) Feedback on the quality of the service is obtained. Obtaining feedback from users of the service, those involved in delivery of the service and other agencies.
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"All students were able to explain how they had been asked to give feedback on the training received." "Partner organisations confirmed they had been asked to give feedback on Buttercups Training during review and monitoring sessions both formally and informally."
Guidance Principle 8) Continuous quality improvement is ensured through monitoring, evaluation and action. Evaluating the effectiveness of the service and planning improvements.
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"Organisations using training services were particularly impressed with the monthly reporting system detailing student progress and achievement."