While you've been working as a Practitioner (PCIfA) you will have developed your knowledge, competence and confidence in your area of work. To apply for Associate (ACIfA) you need to demonstrate that you have added to your competence and background knowledge through CPD and reflection on your practice and show evidence of the wider range of work you have applied it to.
You now take responsibility for your own work within a structured working environment so you'll need to provide some evidence that shows you have achieved independent working within a team and can balance differing viewpoints when needed or seek appropriate support.
As a PCIfA you will have played a part in interpreting and resolving complex situations. As an ACIfA you will understand the need to assess complex work in advance and develop a planned approach to it. You will need to show that you are regularly working in complex and non-routine situations within the framework.
You may have a defined role within a team and be working under the direction of others but you will now appreciate the way your work adds to the interpretation both of the project and the wider archaeological landscape. For examples of the evidence that you could use to show that you have reached Associate grade you can look at the specialist competence matrices developed by CIfA's groups.
You will also need to show that you understand and use the ethical requirements of the CIfA Code of conduct to help guide and review your own practice and work.
If you are following a particular career path look for training and learning resources that are not only subject specific but targeted to the appropriate level. To prepare for roles that will give you the competence you need at Associate grade, look at developing 'soft skills' such as communication skills, people management and ensuring you have an up to date knowledge of IT packages. It is important to reflect on how the CPD you have undertaken has helped you to develop your skills and competence in these areas.
Volunteering for CIfA committees such as the Validation, Registration and Accredited degree, CIfA Area and Special Interest Groups, and Advisory Council will deepen and widen your knowledge of the historic environment and CIfA's work.
Other useful links and documents
Professional practice papers (view full list)
Advice from CIfA's Validation committee
CIfA annual conference
External resources
