Get qualified

You can obtain valuable qualifications as proof of your knowledge and skills by completing additional components relating to this Guide and others in the series.

Bathroom Academy Merits
To achieve 1 Merit, you must…

1 Read the Guide
2 Complete an on-line workbook
3 Complete a timed questions and answers test
4 Write a short scenario describing how you have used your knowledge when dealing with customers.

This will give you 1 Bathroom Academy merit, for which you will receive a certificate. 

Certificate in Bathroom Studies
Completion of 6 Merits on the subjects of your choice will earn you your Certificate in Bathroom Studies.


NVQ Diploma
Your completed Bathroom Academy Merits can be put forward as evidence for a nationally recognised qualification. Previously known as NVQs, the new QCF (Qualifications and Credit Framework) qualifications are tailored to the needs of the Bathroom sector. 

The NVQ Diploma is based on achieving a certain number of Credits (each Bathroom Academy Merit will have a QCF ‘Credit Value’). By completing the Certificate in Bathroom Studies and collecting further evidence of, (for example), dealing with customers, working safely, solving problems and so on, you can achieve an NVQ Diploma. This will prove your competence in your customer service role and / or retail skills in the Showroom.

Your NVQ Diploma evidence will come from what you do at work, so there is no need to attend classes or do exams. You are assessed by a friendly, qualified assessor who visits you at work, observes you dealing with customers and asks you questions relating to your work. All your evidence is kept and assessed securely on-line, so there is no need for bulky files of paperwork.




Customer Service
Customers are becoming more demanding and expect much higher levels of customer service and product knowledge than they have ever done in the past. Having the right product knowledge and using it effectively and with confidence creates loyal customers who will come back time and time again. It also helps you to answer questions and solve problems, creating a good impression of the company, whether you deal with your customers by telephone, email or face-to-face.

Retail Skills
Retail is one of the fastest growing sectors in the UK economy. Customers are no longer satisfied with average service. In a highly competitive market, they look for those showrooms, shops and people who are the most professional to deal with…and excellent product knowledge, used well, means that customers will come back to you.


Nationally recognised qualifications, examinations and assessments are regulated in England and Wales by OfQual: http://www.ofqual.gov.uk

For more information about the Qualifications and Credit Framework, click here:-
http://www.qcda.gov.uk/qualifications/60.aspx


Contacts

For more information about Bathroom Academy Merits and the Certificate in Bathroom Studies, please contact:-

Sandra Cliff
Bathroom Manufacturers Association
Innovation Centre 1, Keele Science & Business Park, Newcastle Under Lyme ST5 5NB
Telephone: 01782 631619
email: info@bathroom-association.org.uk
Website: www.bathroom-association.org 

For more information about nationally recognised QCF Bathroom qualifications in Customer Service and Retail Skills, please contact:-

Keith Marsh
Axia Solutions Limited
Unit 1, Riverside 2, Campbell Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 4RJ
Telephone: 01782 572777
email keithm@axia-solutions.com
Website: www.axia-solutions.co.uk