An assessor from matrix spent four days with Adviza last month to undertake a full review of our Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) services to assess whether we continue to meet the matrix Standard.

We are pleased to announce that the charity passed with flying colours, demonstrating the high quality of the IAG services we provide to young people and adults.

The matrix Standard is the international quality standard for organisations that deliver IAG, either as their sole purpose or as part of their service offering.

Methodology and findings

The review included interviews with three partner organisations, 17 customers and 21 members of staff conducted remotely, alongside a document review to gain an overall assessment of Adviza’s planning, practice, monitoring and impact.

The assessor identified a number of strengths, including:

• Exceptionally clear leadership and direction for the IAG service, closely linked to Adviza’s mission and values and ensuring that staff are completely clear about how their contribution makes a difference to people’s lives.
• Partner organisations speak highly of Adviza and its staff, noting how the positive nature of the relationships assist in the achievement of mutual objectives.
• Adviza invests heavily in professional qualifications for staff including the Career Development Professional apprenticeship and the Level 6 Diploma in Careers Advice and Guidance.
• Clients spoke favourably about the creativity of staff in proving new and innovative ideas and suggestions about career options, ways of managing careers and developing new skills.

Roger Chapman, Head of the matrix Service for The Growth Company said:

This is a fantastic achievement for Adviza and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available. The matrix Standard is designed to benchmark organisations against best practice in these areas. With their accreditation success, Adviza is working to provide the best possible support to their clients.

Commenting on the award, Katharine Horler, Chief Executive of Adviza said:

We are delighted that we have maintained the matrix Standard. This achievement shows that our IAG practice continues to grow and develop, responding well to changing circumstances.

The matrix Standard is delivered by The Growth Company on behalf of the Department for Education.

For more information visit www.matrixStandard.com