DHF sets the standard by offering Ofqual regulated training

Tamworth-based trade association, DHF (Door & Hardware Federation), has today announced that it is the very first UK organisation to offer an official theory-based qualification for three of the industries it serves.  The ABBE-accredited one-day training courses for those working in the automated gate, industrial door and domestic garage door sectors, is approved and regulated by Ofqual, the Government Office of Examination Regulation, and is a benefit described by DHF’s Commercial Manager, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens, as ‘ground-breaking’. 

ABBE (Awarding Body of the Built Environment) is the UK’s leading awarding organisation providing qualifications for the built environment.  ABBE was established in 1997 and offers qualifications in the building and construction industry.  As an Awarding Organisation, ABBE’s role is to develop qualifications and assessments which are valid, reliable and responsive to customer needs. 

Their qualifications are offered through its network of assessment centres, approved against a set of national criteria, laid down by Ofqual, the regulator of qualifications, tests and examinations in England.

“We are beyond delighted to be able to offer ABBE-accredited one-day courses for installers wishing to enlist on either the automated gate or industrial and garage door training programmes, and are excited and privileged to be the very first organisation in the UK to do so,” said Patricia.  “These formal qualifications, presented by an awarding body and recognised by employers, are critical in demonstrating a competent workforce.  They underpin our continuing commitment to appropriate levels of training so that individuals meet the necessary industry requirements and are suitably prepared for their roles.  There are so many benefits to having accreditation.”

The one-day formally accredited courses fully complement the current NVQ qualification (although don’t replace it), help support PQQ (pre-qualification questionnaire) applications, can be used as part of an apprenticeship scheme and result in a ‘level two’ award.  There is an additional cost of £50 per learner to the already value for money comprehensive course.

“This is a real game changer, and adds for the first time, an official formal theory qualification to the already popular National Vocational Qualification.  As the first UK organisation to offer ABBE-accredited one-day training courses, we’re ahead of the game for our industries,” explains Patricia.  “This brings DHF one step closer to our objective: to offer a ‘one stop shop’ for our members and respond effectively to their needs.  We are already widely renowned as experts in technical knowledge and training; now, we can add accredited courses to our ever-expanding list of benefits.  The six months it has taken for us to achieve accreditation has been worth the wait.” 

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