Competency Framework Review 2023

The ARA is consulting on the structure and content of our competency framework.  This is your opportunity to help develop the competency framework to ensure it remains fit-for-purpose and future proofed.

Background

Launched in 2017, the competency framework brought together key competencies required in archives, archive conservation and records management across the UK and Ireland. Our 2021-2025 Strategy continues our commitment to promoting standards and recognising professional achievement by:

  • Supporting the career and professional development of professional and assistant level staff working in all areas of the record keeping profession;

  • Championing and rewarding high standards of knowledge, skills and practice through ARA professional registration;

  • Bringing greater transparency to the skills and knowledge needed to attract, retain and develop professionals from more diverse backgrounds.

Why review the framework?

The framework has evolved into an essential career development tool. Record keepers can use it to identify their strengths and areas to develop according to their own career pathway. Managers use the framework to support staff appraisals, CPD and their understanding of equivalent experience and transferable skills. It also sets the application and assessment criteria for ARA professional registration.

The framework also has an international reach, supporting the development of professional record keepers in other countries not supported by a professional membership organisation.

The review will ensure the framework is future proofed, inclusive and flexible enough to reflect key competencies required by professional record keepers today and in the future.

How do I take part?

There are two ways to take part in the review.

1.      Comment on individual competencies and levels

Click here to view individual competencies grouped under their professional functions, giving context to why the competencies were selected for the framework. Choose the competencies you are interested in and leave comments in the form. You can comment on the competency title and suggest additional professional activities to broaden the range of examples given at each competency level.

2.      Comment on the overall framework and structure

Click here to view the competency framework summary. Please give your thoughts, ideas and suggestions on how the structure of framework could be improved, or made more relevant to your area of professional practice. You can also suggest new competencies (or areas of competence) that you would like to see in the revised framework.

The review will close on 28th February 2023.

Visit our Blog to find out how members use the framework in applications for professional registration.