Qualifications

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Professional qualifications

Accreditation of prior learning and experience
Many training and education providers are happy to discuss the possibility of giving credit where other qualifications or extensive professional experience overlap with part of their qualification.

This varies according to the institution and the qualification. However, it is the responsibility of the candidate to provide proof of competence before exam or subject exemptions will be granted. It's usually worth asking about accreditation if you don't want to repeat previous work. The new Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework is intended to make this sort of recognition of prior learning and experience easier to gain.

Continuing Professional Development
The world moves so fast that no job stays still and many professions have a statutory period set aside each year for Continuing Professional Development.

This may involve attending refresher programmes on core topics, or adding new knowledge from options relevant to the job.

In some cases, attending Continuing Professional Development programmes is a statutory requirement to be able to continue practising in a particular job (such as the legal profession).

Professional Development Awards
Professional Development Awards tend to be highly specific to a particular job or industry in which the candidate has acquired skills and expertise. The PDA allows this specialism to be recognised to a nationally accepted standard.

Professional Qualifications
These are qualifications validated by various professional bodies, such as the Incorporated Society of Valuers and Auctioneers or the Institute of Chartered Accountants. They are often required as for membership of professional organisations.

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