• What are the benefits
• How can I prepare for Accreditation
• How do I apply
• When do I apply
• What is a Registered Museum
• What if we are not ready
• Who assesses the applications
• Once we have achieved Accreditation
• Advice and Support
• Resources and information
• The Accreditation Development Project

The Accreditation Development Project

 MLA is currently leading the Accreditation Development Project, aimed at ensuring that the current scheme (launched in 2004) remains helpful, relevant and appropriate. MLA are also committed to reducing the bureaucracy of the Scheme.

CyMAL, NIMC, MGS and the MLA met in 2009 to discuss the devolved issues around the development of the Accreditation scheme and agreed the following:

• Commitment to maintaining and developing Accreditation as a nationally agreed standard for museums, for public benefit;
• Appropriate branding to reflect UK coverage, ensuring representation from all devolved countries;
• Using Accreditation as a foundation, working in partnership across the UK to ensure continuous improvement while respecting national initiatives.

This last point relates to our development of the Quality Improvement System (QIS) as a continuous improvement model in Scotland.

MGS are members of the Accreditation Advisory Panel and will sit on working groups to develop the Accreditation Scheme. Scottish museums are also represented on the working groups. In addition, we have chaired a workshop comprising representatives of Scotland’s museums to hear views and opinions on the future of Accreditation and the development of QIS. Discussion from this session will feed into both projects.

For more information about the Accreditation Development Project, visit the MLA website.The revised Accreditation Standard will be launched at the October 2010 Museums Association conference.