Assessors play a fundamental part in the Accreditation process, reviewing applications, making site visits when necessary, and advising the Accreditation Committee on outcomes and awards. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a major UK archives programme, getting an insight into archive services of all types and sizes, across Scotland. It is also a great way to contribute to the archives profession and to build your own CPD.

The archives sector has taken an immense step forward with the creation of the Archive Service Accreditation standard. Now in its tenth year, it has shown that right across the sector and among all the home nations there is a strong desire for service improvement. The accreditation process provides the tool for the job. It focuses attention and effort on development and improvement within the applicant services (and, indeed, within those services not yet ready to make an application).

Assessments in Scotland are undertaken by an assessor from both Scottish assessor bodies: SCA and National Records of Scotland.

To be appointed to the role you should be able to explain how this appointment will support both your own professional development and the programme’s future. All Assessors must satisfy the role criteria, that they:

• are an experienced archivist currently employed in a service, recently retired (within the last 3 years) or working as a consultant in the sector. Conservators and records managers working in archive services or related fields are also very welcome to apply
• are of high standing and respected by their peers
• are able to demonstrate sound and balanced judgement

We would welcome applications from people with expertise in identified skills gap areas, including analogue and digital preservation, audience development and working with diverse communities.

Archive Service Accreditation Assessors work in rotation, and the role will demand a commitment of up to three to four days each year, being made up of site visits, reviewing applications, preparing reports and, where appropriate, attending currently virtual Accreditation Panel meetings. Additional time should be anticipated for travel and an annual meeting of all UK-assessors.

There will be some initial training for the role, through peer support and shadowing an assessment. Assessors may also be invited to attend publicity events for the programme, such as certificate presentations, but this is an optional extra duty.

The role is voluntary, but travel costs and expenses will be covered where appropriate.

Applicants are invited to submit a CV and a covering letter to Robert Wright, r.wright@scottisharchives.org.uk. The covering letter should consider the following questions:

• What do you feel is the purpose of the accreditation scheme?
• How can you contribute to the work of an Accreditation Assessor?
• Please describe how your experience to date will allow you to provide sound and balanced judgment on issues relating to organisational health, collections management and stakeholders and their experiences
• How would an appointment to the Accreditation Committee support you in your career?

The deadline for submitting applications is 17:00 on Thursday 14 September 2023.