5 Reasons You Should Take an IQA Qualification
For many of us the pandemic has been a great opportunity for reflection, to work out where we want to take our careers. One of the most secure jobs you can have is an Assessor, as there will always be students undertaking apprenticeships. Therefore Assessors will always be required to grade these learners. But have you also thought about taking the next step from your Assessor course, and taking an IQA qualification?
Becoming an IQA
An Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) is responsible for ensuring the assessment of learners is consistent and fair. They are also required to create a standardised process to ensure everything from initial studying to the final assessments runs smoothly.
To become a fully qualified IQA you will need to hold an IQA qualification. Specifically, the Level 4 Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practices. This will give you the knowledge and skills required in order to quality assure qualifications as well as managing other IQAs and developing internal quality assurance policies.
Now we have looked into the role of an IQA, let’s explore the top reasons why you should take an IQA qualification.
Good rate of pay
Salaries in this profession can reach as high as £35K. With a variety of industries to choose from, this could potentially be higher. The financial rewards are significantly higher than if you were to stay as an Assessor, as their salary is around £10K lower.
Professional development
Continued professional development (CPD) is extremely important and all Assessors should strive to keep their knowledge up to date. By taking an IQA qualification, you will undertake three units which are a combination of theory and skills based. This will help you to become a better Assessor in general.
Work around your lifestyle
Working from home has become the norm in the past year. With more freedom at our fingertips, returning to an office environment can feel restrictive. Becoming an IQA means that you will have complete control of your own diary. So, you can pick and choose the hours which you work. If you have young children, for example, this role will enable you to have more time for them.
Career progression
The step-up from being an Assessor to becoming an IQA is a big progression in itself, as it will open up so many opportunities. Like in an industry, having a bigger skillset will increase your value within a company. This is even more true after completing your IQA qualification. You will be able to undertake two different roles within an organisation – helping to save the business money.
Rewarding role
As an IQA you will meet a wide variety of people, from all different backgrounds. Not only will you be regularly interacting with your learners, but also their employers and other Assessors too. Becoming an IQA is a great way to build up your network and authority within the industry (particularly if you post about your new role on LinkedIn!).
For more information on the IQA qualification or deciding if this is the right career path for you, why not give our friendly team a call for more information. They are on hand to help – call 01205 805155.