Myth-Busting: Accreditation vs. Endorsement
🔮 Let’s get to the bottom of this!
We’re diving into a juicy subject today - a topic that has generated considerable discussion within the Forest School community: the Forest School Association (FSA) Endorsement. Many people are uncertain about how this endorsement relates to qualifications and accreditation so we’ve taken the time to write a blog about it!
Here are the facts:
🌳 Qualifications and Endorsement: Not the Same Concept
Let’s start with the basics. My Level 3 qualification is fully accredited by Open Awards. Open Awards is an Awarding Organisation, which means it accredits qualifications on behalf of Ofqual—essentially the official regulator for qualifications in England. Any course accredited by an Ofqual-regulated Awarding Organisation is nationally recognised. Therefore, upon successful completion of the required portfolio through my programme, you will become a fully qualified Forest School Leader, authorised to run sessions legitimately described as "Forest School."
Now, onto where the confusion begins. The Forest School Association (FSA) does not accredit qualifications; it endorses them. You can think of "endorsement" as a form of approval. It’s a bit like choosing a driving instructor endorsed by the AA—an indication that an organisation believes a particular provider is of good quality.
🌱 The Role of the FSA: Endorsement, Not Accreditation
The FSA is a membership-based organisation that endorses certain versions of qualifications. However, it does not endorse qualifications issued by Awarding Organisations which it does not affiliated with. As it happens, Open Awards—the body that accredits my course—is not affiliated with the FSA. Consequently, this means that individuals who qualify through my course are not eligible to participate in the FSA’s paid Approved Provider scheme.
That said, let’s put this into context: while there are approximately 100 Endorsed Providers in the U.K, there are tens of thousands of qualified Forest School Leaders across the U.K. Completion of my course and attainment of the qualification will enable you to practise as a Forest School Leader and obtain the necessary insurance. Furthermore, should you wish, you can still become a member of the FSA (I am not a member myself).
🚗 An Analogy: Driving Licences and Roadside Assistance
Consider this analogy: holding my qualification is akin to possessing a driving licence—it serves as official, recognised proof of your competence as a Forest School Leader. FSA endorsement, on the other hand, is like being a member of a roadside assistance organisation such as the Automobile Association (AA) or RAC. It may provide added reassurance or benefits, but it is not essential for driving itself.
🤔What Does This Mean for You?
In essence, you can obtain a fully accredited and nationally recognised Forest School qualification by completing my course which trains you to lead sessions, become qualified and then be able to obtain insurance. FSA endorsement is an optional extra—beneficial for some, but by no means required. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference and it’s up to you to identify the path that’s best for you.
Understanding the distinction is key: are you seeking a robust, accredited qualification that permits you to lead Forest School sessions? Or are you also interested in obtaining the additional recognition offered by FSA endorsement? Both are valid choices, but they serve different purposes. Recognising this distinction is key.
🔗Some further reading:
Ofqual: Ofqual - GOV.UK
Open Awards: Awarding Organisation | Access to HE | Functional Skills | EPA | Open Awards
