The approvals suite

Published
22/05/2026
Last updated
19/08/2026

Introduction

There are 3 levels of approval:

  • developmental Approval route
  • professional Approval route
  • standards Council Standards Mark

This is known as the approvals suite. It has been created by the Standards Council in collaboration with the field to address the demand for quality assurance at all levels of learning.

Developmental Approval route 

This level of approval is for learning opportunities below degree level that have already been verified by the Qualifications Scotland (formerly named SQA).

Professional Approval route

The professional approval route is for learning opportunities at degree and post graduate level. The approval involves a significant written submission followed by a panel visit to the provider.

The Standards Council Standards Mark

This route was developed to recognise the quality of CLD learning opportunities provided to CLD staff by their employer.

The Standards Mark looks at the whole range of learning opportunities offered, not one specific programme, as well as the learning culture of the organisation.