3 Questions for Patrice Labrousse
1. What is Qualiopi and why has this certification become so crucial for training organisations?
"Qualiopi is a quality certification that validates the processes implemented by training organisations, career assessment centres, VAE (Validation of Prior Experience) providers, and apprenticeship training centres (CFAs). Since 1st January 2022, it has been mandatory for all service providers involved in skills development and makes them eligible for public and/or pooled funding. Its importance is critical: without Qualiopi, no public funding is available, which can result in a significant market loss."
2. What is the role of a certifying body in this system?
"Our role is to audit training organisations according to the National Quality Framework (RNQ), which is based on seven criteria and 32 indicators. We verify the compliance of the measures implemented and their concrete application by reviewing a representative sample of training activities. We act as a trusted third party, ensuring an objective and impartial assessment to confirm that organisations meet the defined quality requirements."
3. What advice would you give to organisations aiming to start the Qualiopi certification process?
"My first piece of advice is not to underestimate the preparation involved. Achieving compliance requires time and solid organisation. I would recommend appointing an internal project leader to coordinate the process and conducting a thorough self-assessment or internal audit. This should not be seen as a constraint but rather as a genuine opportunity to improve practices and structure processes to ultimately provide higher-quality training. It is not about simply applying rigid requirements, but about improving practices by adopting a framework that asks the right questions."
To Learn More: Qualiopi – The Essentials
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Qualiopi Certification
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Who is the Qualiopi certification for?It is intended for all providers of activities contributing to skills development who wish to access public and pooled funds. This includes training organisations, career assessment centres, VAE (Validation of Prior Experience) providers, and apprenticeship training centres (CFAs).
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What are the main criteria assessed during the Qualiopi audit?
The Qualiopi audit assesses seven main criteria:
- Conditions for informing the public about services, access times, and achieved results.
- Precise identification of the objectives of the services and their adaptation.
- Adaptation to the target audiences, as well as to the reception and support methods.
- Adequacy of teaching, technical, and supervisory resources.
- Qualification and ongoing development of the personnel involved in delivering the services.
- The organisation’s involvement and investment in its professional environment.
- Collection and consideration of feedback and complaints from stakeholders.
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How long is the Qualiopi certification valid?The Qualiopi certification is valid for three years. A surveillance audit must take place between the 14th and 22nd month following the initial certification, followed by a renewal audit before the end of the three years to maintain certification validity.
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What happens if non-conformities are identified during the audit?If non-conformities (major or minor) are identified, the organisation is given a set period to implement the necessary corrective actions. Once these actions are completed and validated by the certifying body, the certification can be granted or maintained.
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What are the concrete benefits of being Qualiopi certified?
The main benefits include:
- Access to public and pooled funding, which is crucial for business growth.
- Official recognition of the quality of your services.
- Continuous improvement of internal processes through the framework.
- Greater visibility for learners and client companies.
- A competitive advantage in the training market.
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How does a Qualiopi audit take place?
The Qualiopi audit involves several key steps:
Certification Request and Preparation: After submitting your application, you receive a detailed audit plan. It is essential to properly prepare your organisation by conducting a self-assessment and structuring your processes to meet the requirements of the National Quality Framework (RNQ).
1. Initial (or Renewal) Audit:
- Documentary Review: The auditor begins by examining the documentary evidence you have prepared (procedures, teaching materials, client satisfaction records, etc.).
- On-Site Interviews and Verification: The auditor then conducts interviews with key personnel within your organisation (managers, trainers, administrative staff, etc.) and verifies the practical application of RNQ requirements. This may include observing training sessions, reviewing learner files, checking tools and infrastructure, etc. The auditor uses a representative sampling of training activities.
- Feedback Session: At the end of the audit, the auditor presents the findings, highlighting any non-conformities (minor or major) against the seven criteria and 32 indicators of the RNQ.
2. Corrective Action Plan (if necessary): If non-conformities are identified, you will have a defined period to implement the required corrective actions and provide evidence of their effectiveness to the certifying body.
3. Certificate Issuance: Once your non-conformities have been resolved and validated, the certifying body grants the certification and issues the Qualiopi certificate, which is valid for three years.4 Surveillance Audit:This takes place between the 14th and 22nd month following the initial certification. This shorter audit ensures that your organisation remains compliant and that the quality management system continues to be effectively applied.
- Documentary Review: The auditor begins by examining the documentary evidence you have prepared (procedures, teaching materials, client satisfaction records, etc.).
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