Certification
BISSH certification is a process where training course providers develop their training packages which are reviewed by our experts and benchmarked against the relevant local, regional, national and international standards after which the course will obtain the BISSH certification.

BISSH Programme Certification Framework for Simulation-Based Training
This framework outlines the criteria and procedures for certifying simulation-based training programmes. The goal is to ensure that these programmes adhere to best practices in simulation education, thereby enhancing the quality of training and patient care outcomes.
Scope of Certification
The certification focuses on evaluating:
- Programme Structure and Methodology: Ensuring the training design aligns with educational best practices.
- Facilitator Qualifications and Training: Verifying that facilitators are adequately trained and competent in simulation methodologies.
- Assessment and Feedback Mechanisms: Assessing the robustness of participant evaluation and feedback systems.
- Continuous Improvement Programmees: Confirming the existence of quality assurance and enhancement measures.
Note: This certification pertains solely to the programmees and does not evaluate specific content or educational outcomes.
- Core Values and Evidence of Implementation
Certified programmes must demonstrate a commitment to the following core values:
3.1. Patient Safety
- Evidence: Integration of patient safety principles into all simulation scenarios and debriefings.
3.2. Inclusivity and Diversity
- Evidence: Representation of diverse patient populations in scenarios and ensuring equal participation opportunities for all learners.
3.3. Professional Integrity
- Evidence: Clear ethical guidelines for facilitators and participants, including confidentiality agreements.
3.4. Innovation and Continuous Improvement
- Evidence: Regular updates to training materials based on the latest research and feedback from participants.
3.5. Collaboration and Teamwork
- Evidence: Interdisciplinary team simulations and structured team-based debriefings.
- Certification Criteria
Programmes must meet the following standards:
4.1. Curriculum Design
- Learning Objectives: Clearly defined, measurable objectives that guide the training programme.
- Educational Alignment: Curriculum content and delivery methods that reflect current best practices in simulation-based education.
- Scenario Development: Use of realistic and contextually appropriate scenarios to meet learning objectives.
4.2. Facilitation Programme
- Facilitator Competence: Facilitators possess relevant qualifications and experience in simulation education.
- Pre-Briefing and Debriefing: Structured sessions before and after simulations to prepare participants and reflect on performance.
- Psychological Safety: Creating an environment where participants feel safe to engage and learn from mistakes.
4.3. Assessment Procedures
- Evaluation Tools: Utilization of validated instruments to assess participant performance effectively.
- Feedback Systems: Mechanisms for providing timely, constructive feedback to learners.
- Documentation: Comprehensive records of simulation activities, assessments, and outcomes.
4.4. Quality Assurance
- Continuous Improvement: Regular review and updating of simulation practices based on feedback and emerging evidence.
- Participant Feedback: Systematic collection and analysis of learner feedback to inform programme enhancements.
- Internal Audits: Periodic evaluations to ensure adherence to established programmees and standards.
- Certification Programme
5.1. Application Submission
Institutions seeking certification must provide:
- Application Form: Completed form detailing the programme’s structure and objectives.
- Programme Documentation: Materials outlining training methodologies, facilitator credentials, and assessment tools.
- Sample Materials: Examples of scenarios, evaluation forms, and feedback summaries.
5.2. Evaluation and Audit
- Document Review: Initial assessment of submitted materials for completeness and alignment with standards.
- Compliance Assessment: Verification of adherence to pre-briefing, scenario execution, and debriefing protocols.
5.3. Certification Decision
- Outcome Notification: Programmes meeting criteria will receive a Programme Certified by BISSH certificate, valid for 3 years.
- Feedback Report: Detailed assessment highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.
5.4. Recertification
- Renewal Application: Submission required every 3 years to maintain certification status.
Interim Monitoring: Annual reports or check-ins to ensure ongoing compliance and support continuous improvement.
- Monitoring and Compliance
- Non-Compliance Protocol: Procedures for addressing deviations from certified programmees, which may include corrective actions or revocation of certification.
- Continuous Support: BISSH offers resources and guidance to help programmes maintain and enhance their simulation practices.
- Contact Information
For inquiries and further assistance:
- Email: admin@bissh.org.uk
This framework is designed to promote excellence in simulation-based training by certifying programmees that align with recognized best practices in the field and uphold core values essential to quality healthcare education.