Defining Excellence in English Language Teaching & Learning

ALAP Standards of Accreditation

Promotional Activities

• All advertising, websites, printed and online promotional materials give a truthful and accurate account of courses available
• Advertising is specific to the accredited course(s) and course providers avoid statements which imply otherwise
• Course providers comply with all relevant legislation
• All advertising is conducted in a fair and ethical manner
• All enquiries are handled promptly and professionally by staff who are competent to answer questions relating to courses
• All enquirers are provided with adequate detail including what is included, fees, timing of the course and cancellation rights

Course Participants

• The admissions policy takes into account equal opportunities statements
• The course has clearly defined entry requirements to ensure that the participants are suitably qualified to undertake the course
• Satisfactory procedures are in place to assess prior learning and experience
• Appropriate entry requirements will include English language assessment

Methodology and Resources

• Resources used and/or supplied are appropriate to the needs and levels of the learners
• Trainers are fully aware of sound, up-to-date methodological principles
• Courses include course work, independent study and work for submission
• Course materials follow a clearly defined sequence
• Support for the learner to aid in the achievement of a level of study are included in the course materials

Course Structure

• The course syllabus is clearly advertised
• The course design and content matches the aims of the level of the course
• The course content and hours of study are relevant to the learning outcomes

Learning Outcomes

• The course has a clear statement of what learners can achieve on successful completion
• The materials, methods and support are appropriate for the learner to achieve the intended learning outcomes
• The course starts from a clearly stated level of competence and facilitates progress to a higher level of competence
• The assessment tasks in the course are appropriate for the learning outcomes

Grading and Assessment

• Guidelines are in place for the grading and assessment of the course
• Learners are informed of the grading structure used by ALAP centres
• Procedures are in place for learners to receive regular feedback throughout the course
• Learners are encouraged to improve their strategies in order to achieve their goals and are given help to do this
• A system for collecting learners’ grades is in place
• Assessment methods are varied
• Assessment methods are consistent with the learning outcomes
• Learners’ achievements are recognised through the issuance of ALAP certification

Support

• The course provider shows commitment to helping learners to achieve their goals
• Support is adequate to facilitate successful completion of the course
• Support is promptly given
• A complaints procedure is in place, but rarely called upon

Suitability of Training Staff

• All teaching staff are appropriately qualified and experienced
• Teaching staff undergo training to ensure strict marking guidelines are adhered to
• A sufficient number of staff are in place to deal with expected learner numbers
• Teaching staff are encouraged to open discussion regarding improvements to course materials

Quality Assurance

• Procedures are in place to maintain quality standards in the delivery, grading and assessment of the course
• Procedures are in place for external moderation to take place
• Procedures are in place for upgrading and updating of course materials

Professional Conduct

• Professional behaviour is promoted within the centre offering ALAP accredited courses
• All staff show respect for all learners regardless of race, religion etc
• All staff conduct themselves with integrity at all times
• All staff maintain good relationships with other professionals and other centres
• Content of publicity in any form of media will be checked with ALAP Head Office in the UK
• All staff will ensure that all personal information is kept strictly confidential
• Teaching staff will ensure, as far as possible, that all students achieve their potential
• Staff will use their professional judgement in order to resolve any, unlikely, student dispute
• All staff will ensure that relationships with students remain professional at all times
• Staff will maintain a professional and positive relationship with ALAP staff
• All staff will aid in the maintenance of the ALAP reputation for excellence, quality and success