NCPS Recognised Qualifications Frequently Asked Questions

We've compiled essential information and all of your questions about the scheme into this list of FAQs. If there's anything else you'd like to know, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

What are NCPS Recognised and Recognised Professional Qualifications, and why have they been introduced?

NCPS has introduced the Recognised Qualification and Recognised Professional Qualification quality marks to illustrate how qualifications meet their professional training standards. This initiative enhances confidence in qualifications leading to professional recognition and upholds ethical and industry standards. It also aligns with the SCoPEd framework (Column A), ensuring consistency in professional competencies.

Can my centre use the Recognised Qualification and/or Recognised Professional Qualification logos to promote our courses?

Centres approved to deliver CPCAB CSK-L2, CST-L3, CAST-L3 can use the Recognised Qualification logo. Those delivering TC-L4 may use the Recognised Professional Qualification logo. However, these logos may only be used on webpages, marketing materials, and communications specific to these qualifications. They must not be used on unrelated webpages, other qualification marketing materials, or letterheads. Full details, including logo usage terms and conditions, are available in our Centre Marketing Pack.

Do we need to change the delivery of our courses if they are recognised by NCPS?

Centres do not need to modify how they deliver CPCAB qualifications. The recognition applies to the qualification itself, meaning centres can continue as usual. However, centres may choose to utilise NCPS resources, such as their Code of Ethics, to support learners and align with professional standards.

Will my training programme/s change now these qualifications are recognised by NCPS?

The qualification purpose, content and delivery methods all remain the same as these were recognised by NCPS as meeting their high-quality training standards.

Are there any costs to centres or learners for NCPS Recognised Qualifications?

There are no additional costs for centres or learners. Learners may, however, benefit from NCPS Student Membership and a streamlined route to Accredited Registrant Membership. Centres wishing to apply for NCPS Training Course Recognition (Accredited Courses) can access reduced fees.

Can CPCAB qualified practitioners without an NCPS Recognised Professional Qualification apply for NCPS Accredited Registrant Membership through the streamlined process?

Currently, graduates whose training has been mapped to SCoPEd Column A, including those who have completed CPCAB TC-L4 qualifications, can apply. From 2026, graduates who completed CPCAB training before it was mapped to SCoPEd Column A will still be able to apply but must provide evidence that their training meets all current Column A competencies.

What’s the difference between NCPS Recognised Qualifications and NCPS Training Course Recognition (Accredited Courses)?

NCPS Recognised Qualifications apply to qualifications assessed at an awarding organisation level, such as CPCAB. This confirms that the qualification meets NCPS training standards. NCPS Training Course Recognition (Accredited Courses) applies at a centre level, confirming that a specific course meets NCPS Training Standards. While NCPS Recognised Qualifications ensure the qualification itself meets professional training standards, NCPS Course Accreditation ensures the quality of course delivery by the training provider.

Will an NCPS Accredited course for the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) also be an NCPS Recognised Professional Qualification?

Since NCPS accredits courses at a centre level and recognises qualifications at an awarding organisation level, an NCPS Accredited CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) will also hold NCPS Recognised Professional Qualification status.

How does a centre become an NCPS Accredited Course provider, and what are the costs?

Centres can apply for course accreditation through NCPS Course Recognition by demonstrating that their course meets NCPS training standards, ensuring safe, competent, and ethical practitioners. The process assesses both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the training. Centres delivering the CPCAB TC-L4 qualification benefit from reduced course accreditation fees.

Are all CPCAB CSK-L2, CST-L3, and CAST-L3 qualifications recognised by NCPS?

From March 2025, all CPCAB CSK-L2, CST-L3, and CAST-L3 qualifications are officially recognised by NCPS. Certificates for training starting in the 2024-25 academic year will include the NCPS logo.

Are all CPCAB TC-L4 qualifications, including the BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification (TC-L4), recognised by NCPS?

From March 2025, all CPCAB TC-L4 qualifications, including the BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification (APQ), will be officially recognised by NCPS. Certificates for training starting in the 2024-25 academic year will include the NCPS logo (in addition to the BACP logo for the APQ TC-L4).

What’s the difference between an NCPS Recognised Professional Qualification and a BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification?

NCPS Recognised Professional Qualifications demonstrate that the qualification meets NCPS training standards, aligns with SCoPEd (Column A), and provides a streamlined route to NCPS Accredited Registrant Membership. BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification (APQ) demonstrates that the qualification meets BACP core training requirements, aligns with SCoPEd (Column A), and provides entry to BACP Registered Membership.

What are the benefits for learners taking NCPS Recognised Qualifications at Levels 2 3 & 4?

NCPS Recognised Qualifications at Levels 2 and 3 give learners a strong foundation in counselling skills and theory which meet professional training standards. These qualifications offer a clear progression route toward professional membership. Learners are encouraged to join NCPS as student members, gaining access to valuable professional resources. At Level 4, the NCPS Recognised Professional Qualification aligns with SCoPEd (Column A) competencies and is recognised by employers and professional bodies. It supports a streamlined application for NCPS Accredited Registrant Membership, including listing on the Professional Standards Authority (PSA) Register, and provides a clear pathway to higher qualifications and specialist training.

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What are the benefits for centres delivering NCPS Recognised Qualifications at Levels 2 3 & 4?

Delivering NCPS Recognised Qualifications at Levels 2 and 3 enhances a centre’s professional credibility and quality assurance by ensuring consistency in training standards. This boosts learner confidence, supports enrolment, and allows centres to use the NCPS recognition logo in their marketing. At Level 4, the NCPS Recognised Professional Qualification strengthens the centre’s reputation, ensures alignment with SCoPEd (Column A) competencies, and increases appeal to both prospective learners and employers. Centres also gain access to NCPS resources and benefit from a fast-track course accreditation process.

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