Quantity Surveying and Construction Assessor Guide

Quantity Surveying and Construction Associate Assessor Guide

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quantity surveying and construction

Published by: RICS, Parliament Square, London SW1P 3AD All rights in this publication, including full copyright or publishing right, content and design, are owned by RICS, except where otherwise described. Any dispute arising out of this publication is subject to the law and jurisdiction of England and Wales.

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Contents Background A Associate Assessment

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B The people

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C The pathway and its competencies

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D Competency definitions and evidence in detail

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E The Managed Learning Environment (MLE)

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F Associate Assessment process from the Candidate’s perspective

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G Associate Assessment from the Assessor’s perspective

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The six steps of the Associate Assessment Step 1 – Initial contact

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Step 2 – Preliminary read-through

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Step 3 – Associate Assessment

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Step 4 – Discussion

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Step 5 – Notifying RICS of the decision

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Step 6 – After the Associate Assessment

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Appendix Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide

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Background Section A Associate Assessment Associate Assessment is the process by which those with relevant work experience or vocational/academic qualifications (or a combination of these) can gain Associate membership of RICS (AssocRICS). Associate is a high-value grade of membership in its own right. It also provides a stepping stone to advance to full professional qualification (MRICS). The Associate qualification is gained by submitting workplace evidence for assessment by RICS, and undertaking structured development. All the evidence is assembled and stored using the RICS online Managed Learning Environment (MLE). As an Associate Assessor, you are responsible for ensuring that only those with a proven level of competence can succeed in achieving the Associate qualification. This guide explains what Associate Candidates must do to get to the point of Associate Assessment in Quantity Surveying and Construction. It then sets out how you should approach your task, what criteria you should apply when considering evidence, and what processes you should follow before, during and after Associate Assessment.

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Background Section B The people There are two key parties in the Associate Assessment process: the Associate Candidate and the Associate Assessors.

Profile 1 • Just started as a junior cost estimator for large contractor • Left 6th form with A Levels • In-house management development towards Associate qualification.

1. Associate Candidate The Associate Candidates you will assess are following

To be eligible for Associate Assessment

the Quantity Surveying and Construction pathway.

• No relevant qualification

They are likely to be involved in a range of services, from

• Must therefore gain a minimum four years’ experience

cost consultancy to contract management. They will generally be working under supervision, but using many of the core technical skills of the quantity surveyor. Some quantity

before Associate Assessment • Register as Associate Candidate now, and assemble evidence over the next four years.

surveying activities such as • producing and submitting reports to clients • lifecycle and whole-life costing • benchmarking are more likely to be performed by a Chartered Surveyor. However, an Associate should be contributing significantly towards these tasks. Associate Candidates will come from a variety of backgrounds

This candidate could however do a relevant NVQ3 – a vocational qualification undertaken while working, which would normally take about two years. Having an NVQ3 reduces the required length of experience for the Associate qualification from four years to two. She could therefore come forward for assessment as soon as she gains the NVQ, using her NVQ evidence towards her Associate Assessment (see section 9). Profile 2

in terms of their education and experience. They will all have

• Left school at 18

experience of working in the sector. The diagram at figure 1

• Company management development programme

shows you the various routes by which a person can obtain the Associate qualification. Associate Assessment is open to those with four years’ relevant experience. If a candidate has a qualification that is relevant and of an appropriate level, it reduces the length of experience s/he needs in order to be eligible for Associate Assessment. For example, with an approved HND or relevant NVQ level 3, the experience requirement is two years; with a relevant degree it is one. The candidates will be from one of two sectors – building or engineering. Within their sector they will be in one of three

(relevant NVQ 3) • Site office assistant (4 years) • Intermediate Quantity Surveyor • 8 years’ experience to date. To be eligible for Associate Assessment • Minimum 2 years’ experience required (because of relevant NVQ3) • But 8 years’ experience means 2 years already completed • Eligible for Associate Assessment immediately.

practice areas – contractor, private or public. They will also have a specialism within that (such as civil engineering,

Evidence from the NVQ3 can be used towards the

nuclear, railways etc). RICS will ensure that Associate Assessors

Associate Assessment.

are matched as closely as possible to candidates. The following are typical profiles of Associate Candidates in the Quantity Surveying and Construction pathway.

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Background Profile 3

Other parties you will see reference to are

• Graduate with surveying-related degree (BSc in

• Associate Supporter who is required to verify the evidence

Construction Management, not RICS accredited)

submitted – this is a non mandatory role but is considered best practice for candidates who are building up their

• Contractor’s Quantity Surveyor

experience and evidence over a number of years.

• 12 months’ experience to date.

• Associate Proposer who endorses the application by signing a declaration form at Associate Assessment. This is a

To be eligible for Associate Assessment

mandatory role.

• Minimum 12 months’ experience required: already achieved • Eligible for Associate Assessment immediately • Evidence from degree could be used towards Associate Assessment (see section 9). 2. Associate Assessors You are one of two assessors. Before you carry out your first Associate Assessment, you must have satisfied RICS that you meet the role profile, completed RICS Associate Assessor training, and signed a service level agreement. You will act as either • Associate Assessor – an AssocRICS, MRICS or FRICS1 who assesses submitted evidence and decides whether the Associate Candidate has met the requirements of the pathway • Lead Associate Assessor – as above, but with the extra responsibility of writing the feedback for referred candidates, and managing the contact with the co-assessor before a decision is reached. All trained Associate Assessors will take their turn as the Lead Associate Assessor – whether you are Lead in any particular case is a matter of random selection. You will have undertaken, as part of the service level agreement, to complete at least six assessments per year.

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You will have no contact with either of them – RICS staff will carry out all necessary checks to make sure the correct procedures have been followed. Subject to a detailed role profile provided by RICS which can be downloaded from the Associate Assessor online community

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Background Figure 1: Routes to the Associate qualification

RICS Associate Qualification Candidate Profile

Requirements

No vocational/ academic qualification

Minimum 4 years’ experience

Relevant NVQ 3 Relevant HND/HNC, DipHE/FD

Minimum 2 years’ experience

Relevant degree

Minimum 12 months’ experience

Associate Assessment

Ethics Module

Associate (AssocRICS)

RICS approved professional body membership Direct entry

RICS approved NVQ 4

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Background Section C The pathway and its competencies

How does the candidate demonstrate the competencies? The Associate Candidate must satisfy you that s/he has achieved all the technical and mandatory competencies

RICS has defined the competencies for the Quantity

required for the pathway.

Surveying and Construction pathway, as follows. To do this the Associate Candidate supplies Six technical competencies – the technical skills needed for this pathway. The technical competencies candidates must achieve for AssocRICS in Quantity Surveying and Construction are • Construction technology and environmental services • Contract practice • Procurement and tendering • Project financial control and reporting • Quantification and costing of construction works Plus EITHER • Commercial management of construction (Those working in a contracting or commercial environment will probably choose this competency) OR • Design economics and cost planning (Those working in a consulting environment within either the public or private sector will probably choose this competency). Eight mandatory competencies – the ‘softer’ skills that all responsible practitioners need, regardless of their RICS pathway. These competencies are essential: they demonstrate ability to work with colleagues, meet client requirements, self-manage and act with honesty and integrity. They are • Client care • Communication and negotiation • Conduct rules, ethics and professional practice • Conflict avoidance, management and dispute resolution procedures • Data management • Health and safety • Sustainability • Teamworking.

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1. written evidence – 24 pieces of written work taken from his/her everyday role, four for each technical competency (the written evidence will also demonstrate the mandatory competencies) 2. commentary – a 300 word explanation for each piece of written evidence and why it has been chosen 3. structured development record – a description of learning activities The Associate Candidate also completes the RICS online ethics module. This is the method RICS uses to inform candidates about RICS ethics and test them online on the subject. It is explained in more detail in section 14.

Background Section D Competency definitions and evidence in detail On the following pages is a table setting out the definitions of the competencies, and describing the evidence the Associate Candidate must submit to show s/he has achieved each of them.

Commercial management of construction Description



This competency covers the commercial management of construction works. Candidates should have an awareness of the way in which their work relates to how commercial competitiveness balances against profitability. An awareness of the financial processes used to achieve profitability is required, as well as how these integrate with the overall delivery of the project.

Requirements

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles of management of construction projects. Apply your knowledge to the financial management of construction projects, including regular monitoring and reporting on cash flow and profitability.

Examples of likely knowledge, skills and experience

Evidence

Knowledge

Evidence should demonstrate involvement with the preparation of the following

• identifying and understanding the components that make up the cost of the project to the contractor • understanding of the effect that the design and construction processes have on the cost • awareness of the techniques used to reconcile the cost against income • awareness of the techniques to financially manage subcontractors and suppliers • understanding the use of cashflows. Activities • collecting of data for reports • carrying out cost to completion exercises • preparing cashflows • preparing reports such as liability statements, cost to complete and cost value reconciliations

You must provide four different documents as evidence for each competency. This column sets out the requirements of these documents. It is for you to ensure that the documents provide evidence of the knowledage, skills and experience in column three.

1. Cash flow forecast 2. Preparation of a Construction Budget 3. Cost/value reconciliation report, including a cost to completion review 4. Forecast of a final account. Documentation must clearly show the candidate’s involvement with the piece of work and how they dealt with matters such as • determining the timing of cash movements • establishing progress for a valuation, application, or a cost to completion exercise • deciding on items to include in a cost report or a draft final account.

• applying value engineering processes • preparing and submitting cost data for in-house and/ or external use in relation to areas such as cost of preliminaries, comparative cost of different construction techniques and taxation allowances.

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Background

Construction technology and environmental services Description



This competency covers the design and construction of buildings and other structures. Candidates should have an awareness of the design and construction processes commonly used in the industry. They should have a detailed knowledge of construction solutions relevant to their projects.

Requirements

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles of design and construction relating to your chosen field of practice. Apply your knowledge to the design and construction processes.

Examples of likely knowledge, skills and experience

Evidence

Knowledge • the stages of design from inception to completion

Evidence should demonstrate involvement with the preparation of the following

• impact of current legislation and regulations (both national and international)

1. Information required schedule (from one of the lead designers at a given design stage)

• how the various elements of the structure work and interrelate

2. Cost study comparing different design solutions

• the process of constructing the works

3. Query lists to designers

• operational and maintenance processes post contract. Activities • appreciating how design processes vary for different types of building such as clear span requirements for warehousing or acoustic requirements for accommodation • understanding alternative construction details in relation to functional elements of the design such as different types of piling or structural frame solutions.

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You must provide four different documents as evidence for each competency. This column sets out the requirements of these documents. It is for you to ensure that the documents provide evidence of the knowledge, skills and experience in column three.

4. Measurement of works in progress on site for Interim Valuation purposes. Documentation must clearly show the candidate’s involvement with the piece of work and how they dealt with matters such as • co-ordination issues • design standards/regulation • sustainable construction • disability requirements • pre-fabricated construction solutions.

Background

Contract practice Description



This competency covers the various forms of contract used in the construction industry. Candidates should have an awareness of all of the main standard forms of contract and an understanding of contract law, legislation and the specific forms of contract they have used.

Requirements

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the various forms of contract used in the construction industry and/or your area of business. Apply your knowledge of the use of the various standard forms of contract at project level, including the implications and obligations that apply to the parties to the contract.

Examples of likely knowledge, skills and experience

Evidence

Knowledge

Evidence should demonstrate involvement with the preparation of the following

• basic contract law and legislation • contract documentation • the various standard forms of contract and sub-contract • when different forms would be used • basic contractual mechanisms and procedures at various stages of the contract • third party rights including relevant legislation and the use of collateral warranties. Activities • producing contract documentation • carrying out the contractual mechanisms and procedures relevant to the financial management aspects of the project, such as change procedures, valuations and final accounts • understanding general contractual provisions such as insurances, retention, bonds, liquidated and ascertained damages, early possession, practical completion and other common contractual mechanisms.

You must provide four different documents as evidence for each competency. This column sets out the requirements of these documents. It is for you to ensure that the documents provide evidence of the knowledge, skills and experience in column three.

1. Preliminaries, Employer’s Requirements or Works Information Document 2. Completion of contract details 3. Interim valuation (including statement of retention and valuation recommendation) 4. Statement of Final Account. Documentation must clearly show the candidate’s involvement with the piece of work and how they dealt with matters such as • queries in preparing prelims/ER/WID • insurance provisions • ascertained damages • variations • assessing preliminary items • adjustment and agreement of valuations/final accounts • unfixed materials on/off site • taxation.

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Background

Design economics and cost planning Description



This competency covers the impact of design and other factors on cost throughout the life of the building and the control of cost during the pre-contract stage. It covers the candidate’s understanding of and involvement with the techniques used to manage and control costs during the design development phase of a project.

Requirements

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the main factors that affect design economics over the whole life of a building. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how cost planning assists in the financial control of projects during the design development stage. Apply your knowledge to the cost management of design development on a project from feasibility to design completion. Prepare and submit cost data to in-house and/or external data collection agencies.

Examples of likely knowledge, skills and experience

Evidence

Knowledge

Evidence should demonstrate involvement with the preparation of the following

• factors affecting design economics over the life of a building • how cost planning assists in the financial control of projects • the various stages of cost planning • sources of cost data • adjustments to cost data for factors including location, specification, time and market forces. Activities • producing estimates and cost plans • applying value engineering processes • preparing and submitting cost data to in-house and/or external data collection agencies.

You must provide four different documents as evidence for each competency. This column sets out the requirements of these documents. It is for you to ensure that the documents provide evidence of the knowledge, skills and experience in column three.

1. Feasibility or detailed estimate 2. Functional element of a cost plan or a whole cost plan, including a reconciliation of design development allowances 3. Value engineering of design options 4. Cost analysis for a functional element/whole project. Documentation must clearly show the candidate’s involvement with the piece of work and how they dealt with matters such as • measurement of areas or elemental quantities • sourcing of cost data • adjustment of cost data • calculation of unit rates • preliminaries, overheads and profit • professional and other fees • inflation • risk allowances • inclusions and exclusions • design efficiency, eg wall/floor ratios.

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Background

Procurement and tendering Description



This competency covers the way a project is structured and delivered in terms of risk allocation and contractual relationships, and how tendering processes are used to establish a contract price. Candidates should have a clear understanding of the different types of procurement and tendering commonly used and the advantages and disadvantages of each to the parties involved. They should also have a detailed working knowledge of the procurement routes and tendering procedures used on their projects.

Requirements

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the main types of procurement. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the tendering and negotiation processes involved in procurement. Apply your knowledge to the implementation of the procurement routes selected for your projects and to carrying out tendering and negotiation processes relevant to them.

Examples of likely knowledge, skills and experience

Evidence

Knowledge

Evidence should demonstrate involvement with the preparation of the following

• the main types of procurement used in both the public and private sectors, both nationally and internationally • tendering and negotiation processes involved in procurement • ancillary processes such as partnering and framework agreements • codes of practice and procedures commonly used. Activities • implementing procurement routes such as traditional, design and build, management forms, term and serial contracting and other types • producing and/or compiling tender documentation such as letter of invitation, form of tender, health and safety documentation, design documentation and contractual details • carrying out of tendering and negotiation processes such as single and two stage tendering, the use of codes of practice and electronic tendering.

You must provide four different documents as evidence for each competency. This column sets out the requirements of these documents. It is for you to ensure that the documents provide evidence of the knowledge, skills and experience in column three.

1. Compiling a tender list including pre-qualification 2. Preparation of tender documentation in line with the chosen procurement route and issuing tender documents 3. Management of the tender process, through to tender opening and tender evaluation utilising the appropriate tendering procedures 4. Agreement/negotiation of a contract sum. Documentation must clearly show the candidate’s involvement with the piece of work and how they dealt with matters such as • contractors’ queries • late tenders • errors • omissions/qualifications • adjustment of tenders.

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Background

Project financial control and reporting Description



This competency covers the effective cost control of construction projects during the construction phase. Candidates should be aware of the principles of controlling and reporting costs on any construction project. They should have an understanding of the control and reporting processes used on their projects (please note: for surveyors working in contracting this competency covers externally issued cost advice).

Requirements

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the effective control of costs during a project. Demonstrate understanding of the legal and contractual constraints and the effect of time and quality on the cost of a project. Apply your knowledge to the management of project costs. This should include the preparation and presentation of financial reports on the performance of a project at appropriate intervals to provide effective forecasting of costs, risks and their financial implications.

Examples of likely knowledge, skills and experience

Evidence

Knowledge

Evidence should demonstrate involvement with the preparation of the following

• the effective control of costs during the construction phase of a project • the legal and contractual constraints on the cost of a project such as changes in building legislation and design risk allocation • the reporting and forecasting of costs during the construction phase

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1. Monitoring and updating cashflows 2. Change control registers including expenditure of provisional sums 3. Expenditure of risk items/risk register 4. Data for cost reports.

Activities

Documentation must clearly show the candidate’s involvement with the piece of work and how they dealt with matters such as

• managing project costs during the construction phase

• reconciling interim payments against cost forecasts

• reporting and forecasting costs for different procurement routes and client types

• reconciling interim payments against predicted cashflows and progress on site

• using cashflows in financial management

• authentication of actual costs

• the principles of contingencies/ risk allowances.

• managing provisional sums/risk allowances.

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You must provide four different documents as evidence for each competency. This column sets out the requirements of these documents. It is for you to ensure that the documents provide evidence of the knowledge, skills and experience in column three.

• reporting regimes and protocols • final accounts.

Background

Quantification and costing of construction works Description



This competency covers the measurement and definition of construction works in order to value and control costs. It covers the candidate’s understanding and involvement with the various methods of quantifying and pricing construction works used throughout a project. Note The measurement and costing of works for estimates and cost plans is dealt with under the competency ‘Design economics and cost planning’.

Requirements

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles of quantification and costing of construction works as a basis for the financial management of contracts. Apply your knowledge to the quantification and costing of construction works, including the use of appropriate standard methods of measurement and forms of cost analysis. Carry out measurement and costing of works at all stages of the construction process.

Examples of likely knowledge, skills and experience

Knowledge • the quantification of construction works (including both measurement and definition) • the various standard methods of measurement • the costing of construction works • the measurement of buildings and structures to agreed standards. Examples • quantifying construction works at the various stages of a project • producing pricing documents such as bills of quantities, schedules of activities/works, schedules of rates or contract sum analyses • carrying out the costing of construction works by methods such as tendered rates, quotations or dayworks.

Evidence You must provide four different documents as evidence for each competency. This column sets out the requirements of these documents. It is for you to ensure that the documents provide evidence of the knowledge, skills and experience in column three.

Evidence should demonstrate involvement with the preparation of the following 1. Manual or computerised take offs/measurement or re-measurement of site works 2. Pricing documents such as: bills of quantities, schedule of activities / works, schedule of rates, builder’s quantities, variation accounts 3. Valuation of variations using tendered rates, fair valuation/ rates for new items of work, quotations, or dayworks 4. Agreement/negotiation of variations. Documentation must clearly show the candidate’s involvement with the piece of work and how they dealt with matters such as • design queries / Q&A sheets • to take lists • quantity checks • building up rates from first principles • inflation • prime cost and provisional sums • preliminaries, overheads and profit within variations • professional and other fees within variations.

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Background

Mandatory competencies



Title

Requirement

Client Care

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles and practice of client care including • the concept of identifying all clients/colleagues/third parties who are your clients and the behaviours that are appropriate to establish good client relationships • the systems and procedures that are appropriate for managing the process of client care, including complaints • the requirement to collect data, analyse and define the needs of clients. Demonstrate practical application of the principles and practice of client care in your area of practice.





Communication and negotiation

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of effective oral, written, graphic and presentation skills including the methods and techniques that are appropriate to specific situations. Demonstrate practical application of these skills in a variety of situations, specifically including where negotiation is involved.

Conduct rules, ethics and professional practice *Although this is achieved through the RICS ethics module you should still refer to it (where applicable) in any 300-word commentary

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the role and significance of RICS and its functions. Also an appreciation of your personal professional role and society’s expectations of professional practice and RICS code of conduct and conduct regulations, including the general principles of law and the legal system, as applicable in your country of practice. Demonstrate practical application in your area of practice, being able to justify actions at all times and demonstrate personal commitment to the rules of conduct, and RICS ethical standards. Demonstrate that you have applied these in the context of advising clients.

Conflict avoidance, management and dispute resolution procedures

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the techniques for conflict avoidance, conflict management and dispute resolution procedures including for example adjudication and arbitration, appropriate to your pathway.

Data management

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the sources of information and data, and of the systems applicable to your area of practice, including the methodologies and techniques most appropriate to collect, collate and store data.



 

Health and safety

 Sustainability

 Teamworking

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Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles and responsibilities imposed by law, codes of practice and other regulations appropriate to your area of practice. Demonstrate practical application of health and safety issues and the requirements for compliance, in your area of practice.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of why and how sustainability seeks to balance economic, environmental and social objectives at global, national and local levels, in the context of land, property and the built environment.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles, behaviour and dynamics of working in a team.

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Background Section E The Managed Learning Environment (MLE) The MLE is an online resource which is accessed by both the Associate Candidate and the Associate Assessors. It enables Associate Candidates to upload and manage their evidence, write 300-word commentaries and record structured development for the Associate Assessment. The Associate Candidate builds up, piece by piece, evidence to show knowledge and skills. When s/he has built up a complete portfolio s/he applies for Associate Assessment. You will then be invited to access the portfolio, using the MLE, and assess it online. Finally, the candidate will be given the result – pass or refer – and will provide feedback through the MLE if s/he is referred. The feedback explains in detail why the assessors do not consider the candidate has met the competency requirements in full; and sets out what further evidence s/he needs to produce in order to reach the standard. MLE guide At the end of this guide, there is a comprehensive Associate Assessor guide to using the MLE.

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Background Section F Associate Assessment process from the Candidate’s perspective The Associate Candidate goes through three stages to reach Associate Assessment. Registration

Associate Assessment The Associate Candidate decides when the portfolio is complete, and submits it via the MLE. The record of evidence is then locked, and you and your fellow Associate Assessor log on to the MLE and view the portfolio. This is the point at which you become involved. You evaluate all the evidence and decide whether the candidate has met the requirements for all the mandatory and technical competencies. If so, the

The Associate Candidate tells RICS about his/her

Associate Candidate has passed the Associate Assessment

qualifications and experience, and RICS diagnoses whether

and will become an Associate Member of RICS (AssocRICS).

more experience is required before Associate Assessment.

If not, you identify the shortfalls and the Lead Associate

You will not have to make any assessment of the Associate

Assessor sets them out in feedback, which is given to the

Candidate’s qualifications and length of experience: you will

Associate Candidate via the MLE. The timescale for Associate

always proceed on the understanding that s/he has met the

Assessment is four weeks from the date the candidate is

requirements and is eligible for Associate Assessment.

accepted for assessment. In order to ensure RICS meets

The Registration system and RICS staff will have ensured, by

these timescales you are given ten working days to complete

the time you become involved, that the candidate meets the

the assessment.

criteria for eligibility. They will have checked that the correct number of pieces of evidence and commentaries have been

You will have no personal contact with the Associate Candidate

submitted and that the dates on the evidence are acceptable.

or his/her supporter/proposer.

They will have verified that the proposer and supporter meet the requirements and that the candidate has provided evidence of any relevant qualifications. Assembling evidence In the online Managed Learning Environment (MLE) the Associate Candidate puts his/her portfolio of evidence together • four pieces of written evidence for each technical competency (making 24 pieces of evidence in all) • a 300-word commentary for each piece of evidence • a record of 48 hours’ structured development linked to the competencies.

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Background Section G Associate Assessment from the Assessor’s perspective There are six basic steps to the assessment process, set out in Figure 2 below.

Figure 2: Steps in the Associate Assessment process

1 Initial contact – access MLE to check for conflicts of interest - if none, and available to assess, agree to take on assessment

2 In the MLE – preliminary read of evidence form initial impress

3 Detailed assessment of written evidence, commentaries and structured development competency by competency

4 Contact with co-assessor. Discussion. If decision is to refer, decide on feedback, what evidence can be banked and what you require the candidate to submit for his/her next assessment

5 Decision – both assessors must agree and commit to a unanimous decision

6 Lead Associate Assessor agrees feedback with co-assessor

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Background Once you have accepted an Associate Assessment you have TEN WORKING DAYS in which to • review all the evidence yourself • discuss it with your fellow Associate Assessor • decide whether to pass or refer • if refer, decide which pieces of evidence are acceptable and may be banked • if refer, agree what further evidence is required and agree a feedback report which will be communicated by RICS to the Associate Candidate via the MLE. The timeline at Figure 3 shows how long you have for each step. Figure 3: Timeline

Working day

Action



1



2



3

Offered assessement accept or reject







4



5



6



7



8



9



10

Preliminary read-through

Detailed consideration of evidence against competencies





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Discuss and decide outcome – if you refer, decide what evidence banked and what goes in feedback

Communicate outcome to RICS (with feedback from lead Assessor if required)

The six steps of the Associate Assessment Step 1 – Initial contact Before the assessment

You must decide within a maximum of 48 hours of receiving

When an Associate Candidate has submitted a portfolio

the email whether to accept the assessment: this gives RICS

of evidence for Associate Assessment, RICS staff will match the

time to contact other Associate Assessors to achieve the four

candidate with two members from the list of trained Associate

week assessment turnaround.

Assessors for the pathway. They will take account of the sector, practice area and specialism of the candidate as well

By clicking ‘accept’, you take full responsibility for delivering

as the candidate’s employment history. They will ensure that

an assessment within the terms of the service level agreement.

assessments are distributed as equally as possible among the available assessors. RICS will then email you to tell you an

At this stage you will also be given the name and contact

assessment is waiting for you. You log on to the MLE, where you

details of your fellow assessor. It is up to you how you prefer

will find details of the candidate(s) awaiting assessment. See

to work with your fellow assessor, whether by email,

section 2 of the MLE guide.

telephone, or meeting to discuss. There are no hard-and-fast rules on this, provided you ensure you reach a fair assessment

You should then click on the individual record to see the name

with each assessor’s views being given full weight. RICS does

and employment details of the Associate Candidate. You must

not pay travel or other expenses if you choose to meet.

consider whether you have a conflict of interest. You must not accept the assessment if • you have personal knowledge of the Associate Candidate • you have significant connections with the Associate Candidate’s employer (for instance, you have worked for the organisation in the last five years, have close personal relations with any of its employees, regularly do business with the organisation or could be considered a business competitor). You are bound by the RICS Code of Conduct in these matters and must act ethically at all times. RICS will provide advice if you are in doubt. You must also decline the assessment if you cannot guarantee you will be able to meet the deadline for completing it: see Section G of this guide. If you cannot accept the assessment, you must add a note in the MLE explaining why you are unable to assess this time. The candidate’s details contain a link to any previous assessments. This allows you to see if the candidate has been previously referred. The system will show whether you are being offered the role of Lead or co-assessor. The role of Lead Associate Assessor is rotated, and being Lead does not imply any seniority or higher status. It carries the duty of instigating contact, coordinating discussions and providing the feedback report if the Associate Candidate is referred.

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Step 2 – Preliminary read-through Review the portfolio Your first task is to undertake a preliminary review of the evidence that has been submitted. You access this by logging on to the MLE and accessing the candidate’s portfolio – see MLE guide, section 3. RICS suggests you do this within two or three days of accepting the assessment. The following sections of this guide explain the type of evidence you will be assessing and the points you must bear in mind when making your assessment. Your first step will normally be to skim-read all the evidence, which consists of documents, commentaries and a structured development record. Although you may have a brief courtesy telephone call from your fellow assessor at the outset, you will usually work in isolation until you have formed your initial view on whether the standard has been met. Only later in the assessment process will you generally have contact with the other assessor. (Please note: this is advisory only. Individual assessors may find ways of working which suit them better – for example, two assessors may have worked together before and found through experience that they prefer to make immediate contact to share impressions). Throughout your initial evaluation, you should be making notes. The MLE gives you the facility to make notes against any item of evidence. These notes are private to you: they cannot be seen by the Associate Candidate or by your fellow assessor.

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Step 3 – Detailed assessment Before you assess a portfolio, RICS staff will have checked

Candidates must be able to show that their evidence meets

thoroughly to ensure that it meets the requirements for the

these time requirements – for example, any correspondence

number of pieces and currency of the evidence, commentaries

should include dates, and any report should also be dated.

and structured development records. You do not need to worry

Evidence such as site surveys, legal documents or work

about the quantity of evidence (because it will already have

specifications should contain a reference to the date the work

been checked and approved by RICS): your assessment is all

was done or the communication produced. If the dates are

to do with its quality and its relevance to the competencies.

not clear from the evidence itself, the candidate should have clarified them in the commentary.

3.1 Documents The majority of the evidence for Associate Assessment is in the

RICS staff will have carried out checks to ensure the dates

form of material the Associate Candidate has produced

on the evidence meet these timescales and the candidate will

(or contributed significantly to) in day-to-day work. Associate

have added the date each piece of work took place onto the

Candidates should provide as much variety as possible to

relevant field on the MLE.

illustrate the breadth of their knowledge and application. The evidence must be the candidate’s own work (or have his/her

Mandatory competencies

contribution clearly identified).

As well as the technical competencies, Associate Candidates have to satisfy you that they have achieved the mandatory

There are several different types of acceptable evidence

competencies – the eight ‘softer’ skills referred to in section C

documents. They include (but are not limited to)

of this guide. Candidates provide no separate evidence for

• letters or emails sent to key parties • notes taken at meetings (these should be the notes the

these: all their evidence for them must be contained in the 24 pieces of evidence they submit for the technical competencies, the 300-word commentaries, and the structured development

candidate makes at the time, rather than a revised version

record. Candidates are asked to point out in their commentaries

prepared later)

how an individual piece of evidence demonstrates one or more

• work sheets • query lists • back up notes or calculations • finished work

of the mandatory competencies. For example, a report on an aspect of a project could, as well as providing evidence of a technical skill, also demonstrate the candidate’s communication skills, teamworking abilities, or awareness of sustainability issues.

• some types of work produced for an academic or vocational qualification. How recent must the evidence be? All the evidence must have been produced in the last four years (that is, no piece of evidence should be more than four years old when submitted). At least one piece of evidence per competency must have been produced during the 12 months immediately prior to the date on which the candidate submits his/her portfolio for Associate Assessment.

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Step 3 – Detailed assessment What sort of standard should you expect?

The link between evidence and competencies

In section D (which sets out the competencies) is the list of

Associate Candidates must submit four pieces of evidence

documents selected by RICS for the Quantity Surveying and

for each technical competency. One item on its own will not

Construction pathway. The following are examples to

demonstrate the whole range and depth required. You will be

demonstrate the required depth and detail.

considering all four pieces together and looking at the bigger picture they present. You must assess whether, taken

Example 1: an interim valuation. This should not be the

together, they demonstrate that the candidate has met the

first valuation on the project that only includes site set up.

competency concerned.

It should be a valuation during the course of the project that might include

Work that covers more than one competency

• assessment of preliminary items

Each piece of evidence can be linked to one technical

• payment for variations • unfixed materials on site • materials stored off site, or in transit

competency only – so Associate Candidates must choose the one it mainly reflects. It will then count as one of the four pieces for that competency. However, it may also demonstrate other technical

• dealing with partial completion/possession of the works

competencies. The Associate Candidate can prepare another

• perhaps, a re-measure of some drainage.

version for the second technical competency and upload it as a separate document. It must be given a separate title and

Example 2: the measurement of an element of a building for

a separate 300-word commentary.

a pricing document. This should not be a simple straightforward measure where there were no problems. It should be the

You will be looking for evidence of breadth of work experience.

measurement of a complex element, possibly including

Check, therefore, to ensure that the Associate Candidate has

• questioning the design, or asking for additional information • coordinating work with those measuring other elements of the project • thinking about how best to measure items not covered by the standard method of measurement being used • compiling complex descriptions for some items of work. The aim in this case would be to show understanding of the process of producing pricing documents, including interrogating designs, quantification through measurement and description and the use of standard methods of measurement. Evidence should include, if appropriate, background workings for example calculations such as adjustments to rates for inflation or location. Associate Candidates should not submit massive documents, but should keep their evidence concise and relevant. If they want to use a long and complex document, they should submit only the relevant extract(s), and explain in the 300-word commentary what the context was.

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not over-relied on a single piece of work, re-using it excessively for different competencies.

Step 3 – Detailed assessment Work produced for another qualification

3.2 Commentary

Generally the evidence for Associate Assessment must

For each piece of evidence, the Associate Candidate must

be produced in the course of day-to-day work. However,

also submit a 300-word commentary, which is input directly

if an Associate Candidate has been studying (for example,

into the MLE.

towards a relevant HNC or Foundation Degree) or has recently completed a qualification, tutors might set workbased assignments. And if they are doing a relevant vocational qualification such as an NVQ, s/he will have been producing work-based evidence for that qualification. Associate Candidates can include written course work from an academic qualification towards their evidence. RICS

The commentary serves three purposes • to demonstrate how the candidate has interpreted the requirements of the technical competency, and say how the piece of evidence demonstrates that s/he achieved it – in effect, explaining why this particular piece has been chosen • to demonstrate understanding of the mandatory

advises that no more than half the evidence should be from

competencies, and show how they are reflected in the work

course work produced for an academic qualification.

that led to the piece of evidence (for example, did the work involve co-operative working with other team members,

Associate Candidates can also submit evidence they have already used for a vocational qualification – they may make you aware in their commentary that the work has already been

does it demonstrate communication skills, etc?) • to set out the process the candidate followed to complete the activity covered by the evidence.

used for, say, an NVQ. The commentary shows how the candidate has reflected All the other rules apply – that is, the evidence must have been

on what is required, and on his/her own work, and builds up

produced within the last four years with at least one piece per

a picture of what that work involves and how the candidate

competency from the 12 months immediately prior to Associate

has gone about it.

Assessment. There is no prescribed form for a commentary, but Don’t forget that you are assessing the candidate from a

the guidance for Associate Candidates suggests the

different standpoint from that of an academic tutor. You are not

following headings.

assessing simply whether s/he has the academic knowledge needed for a particular qualification: you are judging whether s/he has demonstrated the competencies required for a particular role. If you are assessing any such work in a portfolio, you must exercise your judgment and decide whether it is

How is the competency demonstrated? Wider skills Other than the main technical competency, what else does this evidence show? (with particular reference to the mandatory competencies).

• directly relevant to the competency concerned • at an appropriate level • wholly or mostly the candidate’s own original work • demonstrates knowledge, understanding and practical application

Background A description of the work that led to the piece of evidence. Where, when, how? Who else was involved? How much supervision? Is the activity part of the candidate’s everyday role? How much experience does s/he have in it?

• falls within the list of acceptable items of evidence specified for the pathway.

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Step 3 – Detailed assessment Presentation

Associate Candidates must have recorded a minimum of

When you assess a 300-word commentary, you are looking

48 hours’ structured development in the 12 months prior

at it as an explanation of the evidence of the competencies.

to the date on which they submit their portfolio for

You are also looking at it as a piece of written work in its own

Associate Assessment.

right, and you should give some weight to presentation issues such as grammar, spelling and clarity of expression. Although

There is no strict rule about the precise number of hours

this is something you should have regard to, remember that

of structured development for each individual competency.

• the required standard, though high, would not necessarily be as high as for a Chartered Surveyor

Candidates should achieve a reasonable spread of hours across the competencies, and record a variety of activities and learning methods.

• to be of acceptable standard, any piece of written work should be clear and readable, and demonstrate a

When you look at a structured development record you

reasonable grasp of language, grammar and spelling

will see

• presentation issues on their own are not sufficient reason to refer an Associate Candidate, but poor presentation can contribute to a referral if it is combined with inadequate evidence of competence.

• a brief description or ‘title’ (for example “event to learn about new forms of contract”) • the start date and time (when the candidate commenced the learning activity)

3.3 Structured development

• the end date and time (when the candidate completed it)

The structured development record is a log and

• a description of the activity – for example “lecture at

evaluation of the learning activities that have built up the

[venue] on the subject of…”[followed by a description

Associate Candidate’s skills towards the mandatory and

of what the lecture covered]

technical competencies. Structured development is private learning, organised learning, work-based learning or other activities undertaken in order to reach the required standard. It should be • gained in a systematic, structured manner • based on a process of selecting, planning and evaluating the activities. Private learning: reading, online learning or similar, undertaken independently. Organised learning: a learning event provided by a training company, college or similar. May be a CPD event. Work-based learning: training provided in the workplace. May include in-house training courses or events put on by the employer; instruction or mentored practice in new tasks; reading, study or online learning required by the employer. Other: any activity not falling into one of the previous three categories.

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• an ‘activity review’ – a reflective assessment and statement of the learning outcome – for example, “raised level of skill from basic awareness to a good working knowledge”.

Step 3 – Detailed assessment Some examples of structured development

Contract Practice

 Code Work-based

Purpose

Description

Learning outcomes

To develop my knowledge of the use of the various standard forms of contract.

Attended in-house training workshop on Contractual Awareness.

It is fundamental to a QS to understand various forms of contracts and potential contractual scenarios, including the implications and obligation that apply to the parties to the contract.

Purpose

Description

Learning outcomes

Learn more about the main elements of a construction project and how they interrelate.

Refresher online course on Construction Technology and environment services.

I needed to refresh my knowledge and awareness of the design and construction processes commonly used in the industry. I achieved my objective by expanding my knowledge of learning more about construction solutions relevant to projects.

Purpose

Description

Learning outcomes

Strengthen my knowledge of procurement and tendering; how much it was being applied in practice and to further my understanding on the procurement options.

CPD Lecture - outlining the main forms of procurement as well as knowledge and understanding of the tendering and negotiation processes involved in procurement.

I learnt that with procurement options, there are so many variables which determine the option that is eventually chosen, there is no standard way of analysing it but certain options will be better suited to certain projects.

Purpose

Description

Learning outcomes

The course aimed at making delegates familiar with relevant health and safety legislation and industry standards associated with preparing risk assessments, work package plans, and task briefings.

Course delivered at my workplace over 9 hours by a combination of online materials, demonstration and hands-on tutoring.

The course provided a brief understanding of the company procedures and legal requirements regarding these subjects. It increased my knowledge of how these systems work and my role in relation to them, as a key component to the business’ target of zero harm.

Construction technology and environment services

 Code Private

Procurement and tendering

 Code Organised

Health and safety

 Code Work-based

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Step 3 – Detailed assessment Assessing structured development

You should be confident of passing a candidate who

The structured development record will be valuable supporting

• has demonstrated attainment of the six technical

material to supplement the documentary evidence. You will make a judgment on the following aspects

competencies, as defined in this guide • has submitted reasonable evidence that s/he has

• was there a good spread of activities?

achieved the mandatory competencies (judgment is needed

• has the Associate Candidate chosen the activities

here, because there is no separate evidence for these

appropriately, and do they reflect a constructive and conscientious approach to development? • were the activities directly relevant to the technical and

competencies) • has submitted reasonable evidence that s/he is a fit person to practise as an Associate member of RICS.

mandatory competencies for this pathway? • taken in the round, do they show how the candidate has progressed towards the AssocRICS standard? You should not consider the structured development record as a pass/refer item in its own right. It contributes to your all-round evaluation of the documentary evidence and commentaries. It reinforces your view on the Associate Candidate’s approach to work and his/her application in developing the skills for the job. If you consider a candidate borderline on the basis of the other evidence, a poor structured development record may persuade you to refer, while an exceptionally good one may tip the balance for a pass. Assessing – what are your benchmarks? As a practitioner and a trained assessor your essential

Your assessment is holistic, and you must use your judgment and discretion to reach a balanced view on the basis of all the evidence. There is no rule that says, for example, you must be completely satisfied with all four pieces of evidence for one competency. Suppose you have doubts about one piece of evidence: are the other three good enough to compensate? Is one outstanding? If so, does the really good one outweigh the less satisfactory one? You will always be looking to balance your decisions in this way. As a very rough rule of thumb, if two (or fewer) pieces of evidence for a competency are satisfactory you would normally conclude the candidate had not done enough to pass that competency. If three are satisfactory, you will make a balanced decision. And if all four are satisfactory or better, naturally you will conclude that that competency has been achieved.

benchmark is your own knowledge and experience of the sector, and the shared view you reach after discussion with your

You should note any pieces of evidence that are satisfactory.

fellow assessor (see section 4). Another important source

The Associate Candidate is entitled to ‘bank’ these, if s/he is

is the Candidate Guide: you should familiarise yourself

referred (see section 6.1 below).

thoroughly with this before you assess a candidate. You should pass the candidate only if s/he has satisfied you You must always bear in mind that Associate Candidates

on balance that s/he has achieved the required standard in all

are likely to work in a support role, with a significant degree

the technical competencies; and you have seen enough

of supervision. Do not judge candidates against the standard

evidence in the written work, commentaries and structured

of chartered membership - the Associate member will not

development record for you to be reasonably confident that

normally have the academic background, the breadth of skills,

s/he has achieved the mandatory competencies.

or the level of experience and professional responsibility of a chartered surveyor (although s/he may well be capable of progressing to that level).

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Step 3 – Detailed assessment Ethics All candidates for all grades of RICS membership must achieve the highest standard in the competency “Conduct rules, ethics and professional practice”. RICS has developed an online module, including a test, to introduce candidates to RICS ethics and examine them on this competency. In addition to submitting their evidence and structured development records, Associate Candidates must successfully complete the online ethics module before they can become an Associate. This means that you are not required to assess this competency. Provided the candidate passes the module, RICS will accept that s/he has achieved the required standard. Of course, the candidate can refer to this competency in commentaries. If accepted into membership, the candidate will be subject to RICS Regulation and his/her ethical conduct will therefore be subject to scrutiny by RICS. However, if there is anything in the Associate Candidate’s evidence that shows unethical behaviour on his/her part, you should raise your concerns immediately with RICS via the Associate Assessment inbox or by telephone (a full list of contacts is at the end of this guide).

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Step 4 – Discussion When both Associate Assessors have had time to read all the evidence and make their notes, the Lead Assessor will contact the co-Assessor. The first contact must be made within one week of accepting the assessment – this will generally be only to set a time and date for the detailed discussion. Contact can be by any method – Associate Assessors should agree between themselves at the outset what means of communication

• at the end of this process, review what you have noted for each competency (technical and mandatory) • consider, for example, whether there is an outstanding piece of evidence that could compensate for a less satisfactory one • decide in the round, taking a balanced view, whether the

they prefer. RICS recommends, however, that assessors

candidate has satisfied you that the requirements have

discuss each portfolio by telephone because this enables

been met

the fullest exchange of views. The assessors must then undertake a detailed discussion and evaluation of the evidence, which should take place at the latest by DAY 8 after accepting the assessment. During the discussion you will compare your assessment of the evidence. You will discuss the Associate Candidate’s submission in the round. You should work towards agreement. Associate Assessors will develop different ways of working and, provided you can show that you have given proper and thorough consideration to the evidence, RICS does not prescribe an approach. However, the question you are addressing is whether the Associate Candidate has satisfied you that s/he is, overall, competent to practise as an Associate. A suggested way of structuring the discussion is to take it competency by competency • for each competency, first consider the pieces of documentary evidence individually • identify any that are satisfactory • identify any that are outstandingly good • identify any that are clearly below standard • for each satisfactory (or better) item, note if it demonstrates another technical competency and note what it contributes in terms of evidence for the mandatory competencies • consider the commentary that accompanies each document and note if it contributes further evidence of technical competence • for each commentary, note which mandatory competencies are covered, and ensure that the candidate has covered all the mandatory competencies • review the structured development record and note where it supplements the documentary evidence

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• if so, the candidate has passed • if not, clearly identify the individual items of evidence that are below standard – these will be referred to in the feedback • clearly identify the satisfactory evidence, which the candidate can ‘bank’.

Step 5 – Notifying RICS of the decision The Associate Candidate must be notified of the decision within four weeks of being accepted for assessment. If the decision is to refer, the candidate must get the feedback report within that time. RICS therefore requires the two Associate Assessors to agree the decision ten working days after agreeing to undertake the assessment. Through a process of discussion (see above), you must agree between you whether to pass or refer the Associate Candidate. You must then confirm your decision by clicking the outcome button in the MLE. Both of you must click the same decision button in the MLE (see MLE guide section 5). Because the decision is evidence-based and measured against clear criteria, there should be very few cases where Associate Assessors cannot agree. If that does happen, you must notify RICS as soon as possible but, at the latest, within 10 working days of accepting the assessment. This gives RICS time to appoint a third Associate Assessor. The third assessor will review all the evidence and reach a decision after a discussion with the Lead and co-assessors. The third assessor will in effect have a ‘casting vote’ and the decision will be reached by a two to one majority. Note: if, as a result of a casting vote of the third assessor, the candidate is referred, the third assessor will be responsible for preparing feedback for the candidate (see step 6 below). You must agree to refer a candidate only if you have also agreed what s/he should do to remedy any deficiencies in the evidence. Those deficiencies, and the remedy for them, must be described in the feedback which will be prepared by the Lead Associate Assessor. The Lead Associate Assessor has the responsibility of recording in the MLE which pieces of evidence may be banked (see below). The decision is then notified to RICS: staff at RICS will check the comments to ensure consistency in the presentation.

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Step 6 - After the Associate Assessment Approximately four weeks after a portfolio is submitted, RICS

Banked evidence

will email the Associate Candidate stating that the result is

If an Associate Candidate is referred, your feedback must

available online. If the candidate has passed, s/he will

identify which individual pieces of evidence were satisfactory.

become an Associate member. RICS staff will take over the

Those pieces of evidence you identify as satisfactory are

process from here.

banked by the candidate for 12 months from the date on which the result is posted on the MLE.

If you refer the candidate, s/he must do whatever is required in the feedback report before submitting for re-assessment.

For example, suppose for one of the technical competencies two pieces of evidence were satisfactory and two were not.

Feedback

Although the candidate will be referred on that competency,

The feedback report is prepared by the Lead Associate

the two satisfactory pieces will be banked – so, when s/he

Assessor . It must

submits for re-assessment, only two new pieces will be

2

• be competency specific • identify specific pieces of evidence which were not acceptable • give detailed reasons why • give general guidance and suggestions for improvement including seeking other/additional experience • specify how many new pieces of evidence are required.

needed for that competency. The Associate Assessors at the next attempt will still assess that competency on the basis of all four pieces of evidence, but they will not question the two banked pieces. Provided the two new pieces of evidence are satisfactory, the candidate will have achieved that competency. Previously referred candidates RICS will notify you if the Associate Candidate you are assessing has been previously referred. Candidates can submit for re-assessment as soon as they have assembled the

Normally, to remedy a deficiency, you will suggest something

new or updated evidence required in a feedback report, and a

along one of the following lines

minimum of four weeks has passed since the previous

• provide a further piece of evidence for [competency x]

Associate Assessment. (If the Associate Assessors specify

to demonstrate more clearly your skills in… • gain further experience in… and provide evidence • undertake [x amount of] structured development to raise your level of competence in …

that the candidate must complete a longer period of additional experience, s/he cannot re-submit for Associate Assessment until that period has been completed). RICS aims to use at least one of the previous assessors for the re-assessment.

Again, there are no hard and fast rules, and you can prescribe

When assessing a previously referred candidate, you may not

whatever you consider reasonable, provided

question any banked evidence, even if you do not agree with

• it is achievable without creating potential problems for the candidate at work • it does not require more than 12 months’ further experience, so that it does not cause unreasonable delay for the

the original Associate Assessors’ view. You must simply accept that that evidence is satisfactory, and assess the candidate on the basis of the new/additional evidence submitted. If you think the original assessment was poor you should however notify RICS through the MLE.

candidate in coming forward for re-assessment and s/he will be able to use ‘banked’ evidence (see below) • it is proportionate.

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The only exception to this is where the two original assessors have not agreed, and the candidate is referred as a result of the casting vote of a third assessor. In this case, the third assessor prepares the feedback report.

2

Step 6 - After the Associate Assessment Consistency RICS is committed to ensuring consistent assessment standards. The process of discussion with your fellow assessor is one way decisions are moderated and consistency of standards is achieved. You can have the added confidence that your decisions will from time to time be reviewed through the assessor quality assurance process. Do not see this as a threat: it is there to ensure fairness and to help and support Associate Assessors, not to control them or catch them out. If an Associate Assessor is found, through this mechanism, to be notably out of step with others, RICS will provide further training and advice to remedy this. Appeals Associate Candidates have the right to appeal against a referral. They cannot appeal simply because they disagree with the decision of the Associate Assessors. For an appeal to be successful a candidate must be able to show fault in the way the Associate Assessment was conducted, leading to an unfair decision. Examples would be administrative error or procedural unfairness. The Associate Candidate has 21 working days from the date of notification of the outcome of the Associate Assessment to make an appeal. The appeal will be considered by two appeal panel members who have experience of Associate Assessment but were not assessors involved in the original decision. If the panel declines the appeal, the referral will stand and the candidate must provide the additional evidence specified in the feedback report before s/he can be re-assessed. If the panel allows the appeal, RICS will write to the Associate Candidate advising that the original Associate Assessment result and feedback report are now void. The portfolio will then go forward for Associate Assessment with different Associate Assessors using the existing evidence and structured development record. The candidate may not submit any new documentation for the re-assessment. The appeal fee will be refunded. If the two members of the appeal panel cannot reach a unanimous decision, the appeal will be allowed.

Audit and quality assurance Associate Candidates RICS is committed to ensuring that AssocRICS is supported by rigorous processes so that employers, clients and the public can have confidence that anyone who achieves the qualification is competent to practise as an AssocRICS. RICS will select a number of Associate Candidates for an audit as part of the quality assurance process. If an Associate Candidate’s evidence is audited, the candidate and Associate Supporter may be asked for further evidence that the work is all original. RICS may also ask the Associate Proposer for further information about his/her knowledge of the candidate. 10% of all candidates will be interviewed by telephone by trained RICS auditors. As an Associate Assessor you may nominate an Associate Candidate for a verification interview if you have doubts about whether his or her evidence is genuinely original - for example, if you suspect plagiarism, or passing off another person’s work as his or her own. The remainder of the 10% will be selected randomly. The interview is conducted by telephone by an RICS auditor. Its purpose is not to re-assess competence, but to verify the extent of the candidate’s involvement in the work covered by his or her evidence. The decision on whether to pass or refer the candidate will not be affected by the interview. If the auditor is not satisfied, the individual, employer, Associate Supporter and Associate Proposer concerned may be referred to RICS Regulation. If, in the course of assessing, you come across a piece of evidence, commentary, or structured development that causes you concern - or one you consider outstanding you must inform RICS using the alert and feedback box in the results screen in the MLE. This helps RICS to measure and ensure consistency across the Associate Assessment. Picking up on any concerns will help to make this a selfregulatory assessment. Associate Assessors RICS will maintain detailed management information on all Associate Assessments, by region, pathway, firm, assessor etc. Any significant anomalies in pass rate, appeal rate, complaints, etc should be readily apparent. RICS will also require assessor training to be maintained and skills to be updated as necessary. RICS welcomes your individual feedback as assessors, and will be receptive to any suggestions for improvements to the process.

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Step 6 - After the Associate Assessment Maintaining Associate Assessors’ skills RICS provides Associate Assessors with an online community. This enables you to share best practice and discuss issues of concern. It will also be used by RICS to communicate with assessors through regular updates. As an Associate Assessor you are committed, through the service level agreement, to continuous improvement and development. RICS may from time to time invite you to undertake refresher training. Contacts RICS contact centre 0870 333 1600 Associate Assessor inbox [email protected] Internal inbox for automated emails from MLE [email protected] Associate micro-site address www.rics.org/associate Access to the MLE https://mle.rics.org

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Appendix

Assessor user guide for the MLE Assessor user guide for the Managed Learning Environment (MLE) What is the MLE ? The Managed Learning Environment (MLE) is an online system whereby a candidate can upload evidence and structured development ready to be assessed online.

Overview How the candidate uses the MLE • The system allows candidates to upload documents and link each one to a technical competency • With each document they submit a commentary explaining how it demonstrates the competency concerned, and how it demonstrates other technical and/or mandatory competencies. • Candidates also add ‘Structured Development’. This is a log of the activities they have carried out in the last year to demonstrate that they have undertaken 48 hours structured development against their chosen pathway The evidence consists of • For a candidate to submit a portfolio assessment they must have added four pieces of workplace evidence against each technical competency, together with a 300 word commentary for each. The evidence, taken in the round, must also demonstrate the mandatory competencies. Work towards achieving the mandatory and technical competencies is also shown by the structured development record. • In addition to the evidence above, which you assess, candidates must have uploaded a scanned copy of their relevant qualification, their work experience and a minimum of two declaration forms, to satisfy RICS of their eligibility for Associate Assessment. This material is checked by RICS staff.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 1. Homepage 1.1 Welcome When you first login to the MLE you will be presented with a welcome page. The first section will display your name and any alerts generated by the system. 1.2 Alerts The alert section can be collapsed or moved into a different area of the page to suit your own user requirements. Alerts are the notifications from RICS that could be relevant to you. The sections contain a title, message details and date added. Click on the title of the Alert to take you to the full message.

1.3 My details 1. When you first enter the MLE you need to check your details. On the header bar at the top click on My Details. 2. You can then edit your telephone number and email if required. It is important that these are kept up to date, to enable assessors to contact each other during the assessment. 3. Please note: if you update details in the MLE, those details are not updated on any other RICS system. If you want your details to be changed in all RICS systems then go to www.rics.org/mydetails

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 2. Assessment preliminaries 2.1 Accepting/Rejecting a candidate 1. When you have been allocated a candidate you will receive email notification. 2. Log into the MLE and go to the main header at the top. Click on Assessments and then My Assessor Groups. 3. You will see a candidate or a list of the candidates that have been allocated to you for assessment. 4. Click on ‘List Records’ next to the Assessor Group name in the Actions column. The candidate’s details will then display. The view will show the candidate’s name, employment details, practice area, sector of industry, specialism and the date added to the Assessor Group. 5. Once you have viewed the details of the candidate under the Actions column click on the Accept / Reject Assessor Group to accept or reject the assessment.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 6. In the result drop down select your outcome. 7. If you select Reject you must state a reason in the notes field.

8. If you select Accept, do not enter any text in the notes field. 9. Any candidates you have accepted will now appear under the heading ‘Assessment’ and then ‘Assessment for Evaluation’.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 2.2 Assessments for evaluation 1. In the header ‘Assessment’ and then ‘Assessments for Evaluation’ you will be able to see the candidate(s) awaiting assessment.

2. In the column ‘View’ there are the following headings • Evidence – click to view the evidence submitted and add comments for your own personal use • Structured Development – click to view the entries against structured development • Summary – click to view details of qualifications and work experience.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 3 Assessing evidence 3.1 Review Evidence 1. This screen allows you to view the evidence that has been submitted. 2. To view the documents click on the Evidence title. The description and competencies aligned to that evidence will be displayed. To view the uploaded document just click on the link. 3. You can then click reviewed and add a comment for your own records against that evidence. Ensure you click Update at the bottom of the screen to save your comments. 4. Once you click reviewed, your fellow assessor will be able to see that you have reviewed that evidence. However s/he will not be able to see your comments. Your comments are for your own personal use, for reference when discussing the candidate with your fellow assessor.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 3.2 Review Structured Development 1. This screen allows you to view the Structured Development the candidate has submitted. 2. Once you have reviewed the record you can then click ‘reviewed’ and add a comment for your own records against that entry. Ensure you click Update at the bottom of the screen to save your comments. 3. Once you click reviewed your fellow assessor will be able to see that you have reviewed that evidence. However s/he will not be able to see your comments. Your comments are for your own personal use, for reference when discussing the candidate with your fellow assessor.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 3.3 Assessment Summary View 1. The Assessment Summary view allows you to view the following • Name • Pathway • Practice Area • Work Experience • Qualification (if applicable) • Declarations • Number of pieces of evidence submitted • Number of hours of structured development submitted 2. There is no need for you to check the qualification or declarations. These are for your information only.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 4 Contact with fellow assessor 4.1 Assessor Group Members 1. You will find your fellow assessor’s details under Assessment for Evaluation. If you access any of the sub menus, you will see a tab ‘Assessor Group Members’. 2. It is the responsibility of the Lead Assessor to make first contact with the co-assessor. 3. If you are the Lead Assessor you will see in this view the name, contact number and email address of your co-assessor. You will also see whether s/he has accepted the candidate yet and whether s/he has assigned an outcome.

5 Decision 5.1 Adding the result 1. Once you have had an offline conversation with your fellow assessor, click Evaluate next to the candidate’s name in the Assessments for Evaluation screen (you can also access this view via the tab ‘Informal sign off’).

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 2. Once you have clicked Evaluate you will see the below screen 3. If the candidate has passed, select Pass from the drop down menu and click submit. You are not required to do anything further for this assessment. 4. If the candidate has not passed, select Refer from the results dropdown and select submit. If you are the Lead Assessor, follow the instructions in section 2.8 below. If you are the co-assessor, you need do nothing further for this assessment. 5. If after detailed discussion you have been unable to agree on a result click on No Outcome – this must only be used as a last resort if no agreement can be reached between you and your co-assessor. 6. If anything in the candidate’s evidence gives you cause for concern, tick the Raise Concerns box and record your concerns in the Notes field – you can select an option from the results drop down.

6 Referral and feedback 6.1 Group Leader Outcome - Adding Feedback Feedback Screen 1 1. If the candidate is referred, the Lead Assessor must add feedback in the form of a report. To access the report format go to Assessments and then Group Leader Outcomes. 2. Click on ‘Add Outcome’ next to the candidate’s name.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide Feedback Screen 2 1. On the next screen you will be able to see the co-assessor’s outcome. In the Status box click Refer. 2. If you add anything in the notes field this will also display to the candidate. You can leave this element blank if you prefer, and add more detail on the following pages.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 3. The next page displays the feedback report. Any comments you add here will be visible to the candidate after you click submit. 4. Add comments against any competency that did not meet the requirements. Be specific about the evidence you are writing about: this will help the candidate when preparing for re-submission. You must identify any pieces of evidence which are satisfactory, so that they can be ‘banked’ by the candidate. 5. At the box at the end add how many new pieces of evidence for this competency the candidate needs to submit in order to reapply for assessment. 6. In the Further Experience Required box state, if applicable, how much more experience the candidate is required to gain (in months). 7. Structured Development – add here any comments on the structured development records and specify if there are particular competencies on which you believe the candidate should focus his/her structured development. 8. General comments – add here an overall comment summarising the submission. 9. Once you are happy, click submit.

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Managed Learning Environment (MLE) User Guide 6.2 Previously Evaluated Assessments 1. To review all historical assessments go to Assessments and then Previously Evaluated Assessment. You will need to refer to previous assessments if you are re-assessing a previously referred candidate, if an assessment is being reviewed as part of the quality assurance process or if an appeal has been lodged against a recent assessment.

2. If you need to view any previous feedback, go to Assessment and then Group Leader Outcomes. 3. Once RICS has made the feedback live to the candidate, it will then be shown on screen (including any amendments RICS staff may have made).

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rics.org

RICS HQ

Advancing standards in land, property and construction.

Parliament Square London SW1P 3AD United Kingdom

RICS is the world’s leading qualification when it comes to professional standards in land, property and construction.

E [email protected] Contact Centre: E [email protected] T +44 (0)870 333 1600 F +44 (0)20 7334 3811

In a world where more and more people, governments, banks and commercial organisations demand greater certainty of professional standards and ethics, attaining RICS status is the recognised mark of property professionalism. Over 100 000 property professionals working in the major established and emerging economies of the world have already recognised the importance of securing RICS status by becoming members. RICS is an independent professional body originally established in the UK by Royal Charter. Since 1868, RICS has been committed to setting and upholding the highest standards of excellence and integrity – providing impartial, authoritative advice on key issues affecting businesses and society. RICS is a regulator of both its individual members and firms enabling it to maintain the highest standards and providing the basis for unparalleled client confidence in the sector. RICS has a worldwide network. For further information simply contact the relevant RICS office or our Contact Centre.

Europe (excluding United Kingdom) Rue Ducale 67 1000 Brussels Belgium

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United Kingdom Parliament Square London SW1P 3AD United Kingdom

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T +971 4 375 3074 F +971 4 427 2498 [email protected]

T +91 124 459 5400 F +91 124 459 5402 [email protected]

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AUGUST 2009/ VP/613

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