The matrix Standard
What is matrix ?
The matrix Standard is a national standard developed by the former DfES and the Guidance Council and is designed to assist services to identify and follow best practice in the delivery of IAG, focusing on key activities relating to the delivery of the service and its management.
In brief, the matrix Standard is:
• a framework for the development of quality systems in the field of IAG;
• proof, when linked to external accreditation, of delivering a quality service
to individuals;
• a self-assessment tool to encourage continuous quality improvement
(CQI)
AGCAS and the matrix Standard
AGCAS has a long-standing commitment to supporting the development of high-quality provision in its member services. Following the recommendations of the Harris Report in 2001, and close collaboration with the then DfES and Guidance Council, AGCAS adopted the matrix Standard as our preferred framework for CQI.
AGCAS believes that CQI is essential to the future development of careers work in HE and, for this reason, accreditation against the matrix Standard is a criterion for Service Membership of AGCAS. The adoption of the matrix Standard relates to AGCAS services in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, but not the Republic of Ireland (where we are working with Irish colleagues to accommodate their own university quality review procedures).
It is a requirement that institutional members are assessed against the matrix Standard at least every six years. Many services are seeking to maintain their accreditation through a three year review, although this is not a condition of membership.
The matrix Standard does not attempt to prescribe the specific ingredients of a 'quality' careers service. Instead, it outlines the principles that underpin a successful service. It is for the service itself to determine the parameters of its delivery and the evidence it offers of effectiveness and client satisfaction.
The matrix Standard framework is underpinned by the National IAG Board Principles for Coherent Delivery in IAG Services. AGCAS is confident that these principles already underpin the fabric of services delivered by member organisations. However, the standard is not designed as a one-off 'test' to gain the quality mark; rather, it is intended as a catalyst for change and improvement in service delivery on a regularly-evaluated basis. It is unlikely that any quality system or standard will magically add value to an organisation without the genuine desire of those who manage it and work within it to make things better.
Download the matrix Standard (2011)
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