Certified ToP Facilitator
Gain international recognition of your competency as a ToP™ facilitator
About ToP™ Facilitator Certification
This award provides facilitators, using ToP™ methods, with an internationally recognised certification based on assessment of their competence
The Technology of Participation (ToP™) was developed by the Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA)
ICA authorises trainers and assessors to deliver ToP™ training and assess competency for certification. Facilitate Aotearoa has this authorisation.
Why certify?
Becoming a certified ToP™ Facilitator gives you an internationally recognised award and gives your colleagues or clients confidence that you are an effective facilitator who can meet their expectations of performance.
Certified ToP™ Facilitators (CToPF) meet a global standard for effective consensus building in strategic planning, action planning, foresight, historical reviews, dialogue and stakeholder engagement of all types.
Who should certify?
Organisational development and change professionals, facilitators, extension practitioners, management consultants, trainers and coaches.
In short, anyone who recognises the power and potential for team and group effectiveness that can come from enabling authentic participation.
What you’ll gain
An internationally recognised certification based on assessment of your competence in applying ToP methods and understandings.
Evidence of your competence to share with employers, colleagues and clients.
A great start to your own business or a collaboration with others.
Respect in your own company or field.
Being part of a fast-growing, increasingly-needed 21st century profession.
Eligibility to begin your development journey as an authorised ToP™ Trainer.
What’s involved?
Assessment Criteria
1 Design and Facilitate Using ToP Methods Effectively
2 Create a Participatory Environment
3 Evoke the Creativity of the Group
4 Orchestrate Quality Events
5 Manage Positive Client Relationships
6 Model Positive Facilitative Leadership
7 Produce Effective Results
Full details of the criteria are available in the Certified ToP Facilitator Candidate Guide.
How long does it take?
Most candidates take between one and two years to achieve their Certified ToP™ Facilitator award. Certified trainers support this inquiry and development of competence through pre-arranged mentoring and review sessions.
What your fees cover
Support during the portfolio creation process (quarterly check-ins between candidate and assessor)
The assessment process, interview and assessment moderation by a global ToP colleague
Recognition and links on PTL and ICAI websites
How much does it cost?
The fee for being assessed as a CToPF is $2500 NZD, payable to Participatory Techniques Ltd.
NB: Not-for-profit / sole trader rates are available upon request
Your Next Steps
Ask for a Certified ToP Facilitator Candidate Guide
What our clients have said
“Our team now have the skills to immediately improve how we run events and to do so in a way that builds connections and understanding from the beginning.”
Ariana Te Whetu – Tokona te Raki
“The strength of the facilitation process built respect for the different views and encouraged all to participate. Michelle harnessed the diversity of the committee and assisted it to reach 109 unanimous recommendations.”
Peter Gawith – Chairman, Ruamahanga Whaitua Committee
“Just want to say a huge thank you for being a dream facilitation team! Some very constructive discussions and some good relationships built to move the review forward.”
Aidan Burch – MBIE
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