About the matrix Standard
“It is thanks to the matrix Standard that we now look at all the issues in an inter-related way, rather than tackling one aspect in isolation.”
Connexions Cornwall and Devon Ltd
Click here to see what other organisations have to say about the matrix Standard
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my matrix Journey take from initial interest to Accreditation?
Each organisation varies but, on average, from the point an organisation makes the commitment to working towards the matrix Standard to being Assessed takes between 6 to 9 months - although some organisations may take less and some more time.
What is a Certificate of Commitment?
This is tangible proof that an organisation has committed to working towards the matrix Standard. On completion of a Company Data Sheet which is returned to ENTO a Certificate of Commitment (click here to view a sample of the certificate) will be issued to you to say you have committed to work towards the Standard within the next 12 months. Some organisations have found it helpful to include a copy of their certificate to their funders to demonstrate their commitment (click here for ENTO's contact details).
Who do I contact if I want an advisory session with a Registered matrix Adviser?
Registered matrix Advisers can provide a wide range of advice for organisations working towards initial Assessment, or those who are on their continuous improvement journey following Assessment. All Registered matrix Advisers are self - employed, have to undertake a rigorous recruitment and selection process, are quality assured, hold professional indemnity insurance and undertake on going professional development.
The contact details of all Registered matrix Advisers can be found on the matrix Website where it is possible to search using a number of different criteria eg location, sector experience, fee band etc ( please click here to view information on all Registered matrix Advisers).
Do our staff need to hold NVQs in Advice and Guidance?
No, not to meet the requirements of the matrix Standard. The Standard requires that the competence of staff is maintained and developed, it is for your organisation to determine what competencies your staff need in order to effectively do their jobs. However, some IAG contracts do require specific qualifications for staff.
How is client feedback gathered from a confidential counselling service?
In all Assessments, the Assessor would guarantee anonymity and confidentiality of all interviews, feedback delivered to the organisation and any details contained in the report. The Assessor would work with the organisation when planning the Assessment. Interviews could be conducted over the phone and if there was sensitivity regarding the individuals being named the Assessor might suggest that the initial call is made by the organisation and then transferred to the Assessor.
I am a newly Accredited organisation, what on-going support is available?
A whole range of support is available to Accredited organisations, the details of which can be found on this website on the Accredited Organisation Support section (click here to take you to the relevant information).
I am due for Accreditation Review in the coming months, who do I contact?
EMQC Ltd are responsible for the management of the Assessment and Accreditation process (please click here for contact details).
I am due for Accreditation Review, what will it be like?
Click here for full details on the Accreditation Review process.
My organisation is quite small and informal, will working with the Standard require me to produce lots of documents or spend time putting together a portfolio of evidence?
Because the Standard is outcome based, you do not have to follow any prescribed processes or systems or to produce documentation that is not of value to your organisation. Working with the Standard is about ensuring that what you do is effective: it is up to you how you go about achieving the end result. You do not have to produce a portfolio of evidence - the Assessor will find the evidence by a mixture of talking to people, observation and reviewing any documents that may be used.
How long does Accreditation last once my organisation has been successfully Assessed?
Accreditation lasts for 3 years. You must be reviewed within this period but you can decide the most suitable time for the Review to take place.
I am a learning provider and looking at the matrix Standard and the LSC New Standard, why should I do both?
There are some synergies between the two standards, however the focus of each of the standards is separate. The focus of the matrix Standard is on the provision of Information Advice and Guidance to individuals. For a learning provider this is usually pre-course, on programme and looking at progression options at the end of the learning programme. The LSC New Standard has two distinct parts to it. Part A relates to how you as an organization respond to the needs of employers. Part B replaces the COVE programme, and assesses the quality of the teaching and learning within particular programme areas.