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Analysis of context

Legal framework in Spain - IES Jacarandà

Validation Of Non-Formal And Informal Learning

In Spanish eduction system only the evaluation of profesional competences have been developed.

The evaluation and accreditation of the profesional competencies through work experience and non-formal and informal training is one of the necessary instruments to make lifelong learning a reality, encouraging the adult population, especially those who dropped out with no qualification, to reintegrate into the education system through the recognition of their training.

Since 2009, this evaluation and accreditation is conducted according to criteria guaranteeing its reliability, objectivity and technical rigour. The National Catalogue of Vocational Qualifications serves as an objective reference for this procedure, since it lists the vocational qualifications to be recognised and accredited, identified in the productive system on the basis of the skills required to practice the profession. Since its implementation, all the education authorities have published different calls for the recognition of certain competences. The procedure comprises the following stages:

  • Guidance, on the basis the documents provided: An advisor draws up a non-binding report. If it is positive, the candidate may have access to the evaluation stage. If negative, the report indicates the additional training to be undertaken by the candidate as well as the institutions where he/she can receive it.

  • Evaluation of the professional competence: It is checked whether the candidate has the professional competence required.

  • Accreditation and record of the professional competence: The accreditation is issued to candidates who have completed the evaluation stage for each competence unit for which the professional competence has been demonstrated.

On completion of the evaluation and accreditation process, the relevant authorities provide all participants with the necessary guidelines to complete training leading to the award of a vocational training qualification or a certifícate of profesional experience.

If the workers’ professional competences that have been evaluated are not enough to achieve the level of qualification required by a vocational training certificate or a certificate of professional experience, they are partially accredited. Thus, they can complete their training in order to obtain the relevant qualification or certificate.