by Brianna Crandall — December 17, 2010—Over 200 learners are now registered for the British Institute of Facilities Management’s (BIFM) new facilities management (FM) qualifications, and the first awards have already been made. Since they were launched in March 2010, the BIFM’s new FM qualifications, at levels 4, 5 and 6 in the U.K.’s Qualifications and Credit Framework, have reportedly been well-received.
The BIFM’s suite comprises three “sizes” of qualification—Award, Certificate and Diploma—at three levels: 4, 5 and 6. This gives maximum choice to candidates who are frequently combining study with a demanding job. Although learners have up to two years to complete a program, it is possible to achieve success more quickly. BIFM said it has awarded the first three Level 4 Awards.
BIFM is developing a network of Recognized Centres offering programs to prepare learners for the new qualifications. There are currently seven centers offering a range of delivery models, including face-to-face and distance learning. More centers will join the network in 2011, widening access and supporting learners across the regions.
The BIFM qualifications cover all levels of facilities management, from operational to strategic. They have been developed in consultation with leading FM employers and offer a flexible, unified approach to learning. All assessment is work based and can be linked to live business projects. This means that employers can see a real-time, tangible benefit from their staff working towards a qualification, says BIFM.
