Award Verifier: Course overview
The Award Verifier (AV) course is a new addition to the DofE’s Modular Training Framework. It equips Award Verifiers with the necessary DofE programme and practical knowledge to confidently meet the purpose of the role, execute key tasks and ultimately deliver high quality Award Verification in eDofE.
For full information, see the course webpage and flyer at: www.DofE.org/av.
Frequently asked questions:
What is the new course?
The Award Verifier course is a compulsory component of a new learning package for Award Verifiers; we are also excited to introduce a new Introduction to the Award Verifier e-learning module. This module will prepare individuals for the role by outlining the key tasks, DofE roles and how Award Verifiers use eDofE ahead of attending the course. The Award Verifier e-learning and the e-induction e-learning module are now compulsory course pre-requisites for new Award Verifiers.
The course itself will introduce the purpose of the Award Verifier role, programme requirements and how to check that these have been met in eDofE. It will also outline the importance of evidence and Assessor reports in upholding the quality of all completed programmes.
The course covers between 1 to 3 hours of learning, depending on the delivery method.
Why is the AV course being introduced?
We value our Award Verifiers highly and want to offer a national training course that can be accessed by all, to help individuals to do their role effectively. The course will also help to standardise both the quality of training and how we administer the course nationally.
Is there any required pre-learning?
In order to receive a certificate, Award Verifiers must complete two e-learning modules prior to attending a face-to-face or distance delivered course:
- e-induction
- Introduction to the Award Verifier e-learning
Are there any entry requirements?
No, it is a basic course, intended for beginners, but you are required to complete the e-induction and Introduction to the Award Verifier e-learning module before attending an Award Verifier course.
Is there any other complementary learning that as a Verifier I could do?
We encourage all of our Award Verifiers to attend an Introduction to the DofE (IttDofE) course. This is not compulsory, but is highly recommended. It will help to broaden your general understanding of the DofE. Your region might run a condensed IttDofE combined with an Award Verifier course, so keep an eye out for these opportunities.
Is the course compulsory?
Yes. Award Verifiers are required to complete the two e-learning modules and the course. Award Verifiers will only receive a certificate if all three are completed.
What does it mean for the other DofE training modules?
This is a new DofE training course and has a new e-learning module. The other MTF modules remain available.
Will I have to pay for the course?
It is at the discretion of the Regional / Country office to charge a course fee.
Will I have to do a test or assessment?
There is no formal test, but the trainers will check that all learning outcomes have been covered.
What qualification will it give me?
The AV course is a DofE course and part of our Modular Training Framework. You will receive a DofE certificate. This course is not accredited by any external bodies.
As an existing Award Verifier, will I need to complete more training?
How will it affect existing Award Verifiers?
The Award Verifier role was introduced in 2013 and we appreciate that there are many fantastic Award Verifiers already delivering high quality Award Verification.
To address the learning need, a range of non-MTF Award Verifier training courses and sessions have been delivered over the past few years. Regional/Country Directors may be in touch if they believe completing additional training would be beneficial to existing Verifiers. This may include completing the Introduction to the Award Verifier e-learning module or attending an Award Verifier training course. Regional/Country Directors will advise that if any additional training is required, Award Verifiers will have 12 months to complete this.
For newly Licenced Organisations, how long do we have to ensure all new Award Verifiers have been trained?
As with new DofE Managers, all new Award Verifiers must have completed the compulsory training within 6 months of the licence being signed.
Who can deliver the Award Verifier course?
The majority of Award Verifier courses will be run by the DofE. Larger LOs and NOAs may deliver the course directly, but all Course Directors and Tutors must be appointed by the relevant DofE Country/Regional office. Course Director and Tutor orientations will be run by the DofE. AAPs cannot run the course.
Who should do the course?
This course is aimed at new Award Verifiers and existing Award Verifiers who require refresher training. It might also be of interest to DofE Managers, who are responsible for identifying suitable Award Verifiers and require an understanding of the role.
Who should undertake the Award Verifier role?
Award Verifiers must be independent from the direct delivery of DofE Programmes (i.e. a Leader cannot also be the Verifier). We advise that all Award Verifiers possess the confidence and are in a position of authority to uphold the quality of all completed Awards. Award Verifiers must be comfortable raising programme quality issues with the DofE Regional / Country office where appropriate. For example, an Award Verifier in a school might be a head of department, or a volunteer within the Scouts.
Does the Award Verifier represent the DofE or the LO?
Award Verifiers will be nominated by their Licensed Organisation, but the DofE Charity is responsible for their direct appointment. Regional / Country offices will ensure Verifiers have all necessary permissions in eDofE, but Verifiers are empowered by their Regional / Country office to uphold programme quality within their LO. They are responsible for liaising with the DofE Manager to address general programme quality concerns, but will also raise more serious quality issues with the DofE Office. E.g. you might identify that an Expedition Assessor has written an identical Assessor’s Report for more than 30 participants.
Where do I go to find out more – or to book onto a course?
Visit the AV webpage: www.DofE.org/av. Further information is available and the ‘Opportunities Finder’ can be used to find a course to book onto.
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