Approved Training Centres

Approval Process

Four stages to centre approval

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Centre approval is a structured process. Each stage must be satisfactorily completed before the next begins.

Stage 01

Initial Enquiry & Application

The applicant submits a formal enquiry. WOC provides the ATC Application Pack covering requirements, obligations, and fees. The completed application — including organisational details, proposed programmes, and key personnel — is submitted to WOC for initial review.

Stage 02

Document Review & Standards Assessment

WOC reviews submitted documentation against the ATC Standards Framework. This includes assessment of staff qualifications, facilities specifications, safeguarding arrangements, and existing quality management practices. Applicants may be asked to provide additional evidence at this stage.

Stage 03

Site Inspection & Audit

A WOC quality representative visits the proposed centre. The inspection verifies that facilities, equipment, and staffing meet the standards described in the application. Inspectors review kitchen facilities, storage, classroom space, and any relevant practical areas. Findings are documented in an inspection report.

Stage 04

Approval Decision & Agreement Signing

WOC issues a formal approval decision. On approval, the ATC Agreement is signed by both parties. The centre receives its unique ATC ID (WOC-ATC-[CC]-[NNNN]) and is listed in the WOC centre register. Approval is granted per qualification level; additional levels require separate approval.

Governance

Responsibilities: ATC vs WOC

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The division of responsibilities between the Approved Training Centre and WOC is clearly defined in the ATC Agreement and maintained throughout the relationship.

Approved Training Centre

Centre responsibilities

✓ Deliver the WOC-regulated programme to enrolled candidates
✓ Register candidates with WOC prior to programme commencement
✓ Conduct assessments using WOC-designed instruments and standards
✓ Maintain accurate assessment records and learner portfolios
✓ Facilitate External Verifier visits and provide access to all evidence
✓ Participate in WOC quality audits and implement improvement actions
✓ Report malpractice or safeguarding concerns to WOC promptly

World of Certifications

WOC responsibilities

◆ Design and maintain qualification frameworks and assessment instruments
◆ Register candidates and issue unique Candidate IDs
◆ Appoint and manage External Verifiers independently of centres
◆ Issue all certificates directly — never via the centre
◆ Maintain the public certificate verification registry
◆ Conduct annual centre audits and manage improvement plans
◆ Investigate malpractice and manage certification decisions

Boundaries

What ATCs can and cannot do

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The ATC Agreement defines clear operational boundaries. These are not suggestions — they are binding conditions of centre approval.

✓ Approved Training Centres CAN

Deliver WOC-registered programmes to enrolled candidates

Conduct assessments using WOC-provided standards and instruments

Access WOC quality assurance support and guidance

Use the designation "WOC Approved Training Centre" in authorised marketing

Apply for approval to deliver additional qualification levels

✗ Approved Training Centres CANNOT

Issue certificates independently or on behalf of WOC

Modify qualification content, assessment criteria, or grading thresholds

Sub-contract delivery to another organisation without prior WOC approval

Claim WOC accreditation or endorsement for non-WOC programmes

Appoint their own External Verifiers or bypass the EV process

Operate beyond approved programme scope without notification to WOC