SFIA Understanding and Training
This page explains how to develop an understanding of SFIA through self-study, informal learning and accredited training. It also outlines SFIA’s updated approach to recognising knowledge, available training options and future specialist courses.
The SFIA Foundation accredits both SFIA training courses and training providers. Instructor-led training in the SFIA Framework and its application is the most effective way to develop a solid understanding of SFIA and learn how to use it effectively to enhance organisational capability through skills management.
Evolving approach to SFIA understanding
The SFIA Foundation is updating its approach to recognising SFIA understanding. Rather than focusing solely on course attendance, SFIA will now acknowledge a person's demonstrated understanding of the framework.
For the first stage of this, the SFIA Foundation is:
- Enhancing learning objectives, the syllabus, and recognition methods.
- Refreshing the syllabus for foundation-level understanding.
- Introducing a consistent test to assess SFIA knowledge.
During a short transition period, the Foundation Understanding Digital Badge will be awarded either by course attendance or test success. This allows training providers time to update their training offering.
Who is SFIA training for?
SFIA training is for people interested in skills and competencies, including activities such as:
- Recruitment, workforce planning, learning and development
- Managing/motivating people and teams
- Resource management, deployment, and remuneration
- Enhancing organisational capability through skills management
As SFIA's usage continues to expand, there will continue to be a need for both:
- General SFIA training – covering fundamental understanding and application
- Specialist SFIA training – tailored to specific use cases
General understanding of SFIA
A general understanding of SFIA is essential for applying it effectively in skills development at both the individual and organisational levels. SFIA is a straightforward framework, but some concepts can be misunderstood without proper study or guidance.
Understanding SFIA can be achieved through:
- Self-study via the SFIA website and resources
- Discussions with colleagues or peers in the global SFIA community
- Guidance from an Accredited SFIA Consultant
- Formal training delivered by an Accredited SFIA Training Provider.
Understanding SFIA
Understanding Level |
Current Offering |
Approach to Understanding |
Recognition |
|
Foundation |
SFIA Framework Foundation |
Any Accredited Consultant (Within their Client) |
SFIA Framework Foundation Test |
|
Practitioner |
Introduction to SFIA for Practitioners |
Accredited Training Provider Led by a SFIA Accredited Consultant |
Training attendance |
|
Consultant |
Introduction to SFIA for Consultants |
Accredited Training Provider Led by a SFIA Accredited Consultant |
Training attendance |
Successfully completing the SFIA Framework Foundation Test is necessary to demonstrate a foundation level understanding of the SFIA Framework.
Attending accredited introduction training for practitioners or higher is a prerequisite for applications for SFIA Accredited Practitioner unless extensive use of using SFIA within an organisation that has adopted SFIA can be demonstrated.
Attending accredited introduction training for consultants is a prerequisite for an application for SFIA Accredited Consultant unless extensive use leading a SFIA related activity can be demonstrated.
Understanding SFIA for specialist use
Further training, typically aligned to a specific use of SFIA, will be developed in due course and will be described here. Some training providers are already developing such courses - for further information contact the SFIA Foundation.