Competency Frameworks
Competency frameworks
Our frameworks set national competency standards for the recordkeeping sector, identifying the core competencies needed across archives, archive conservation and records management. Developed with employers, professionals and sector stakeholders, the frameworks support the career development of Archivists, Archive Conservators, Records Managers and those in related roles.
The frameworks are designed to support professional development, strengthen everyday practice, and reflect the wide range of roles and career pathways across the sector. They are interconnected, recognising that recordkeepers often develop competencies across more than one area as their careers progress.
For Members, the frameworks are a key tool for planning CPD and assessing professional skills. For employers, they provide a practical benchmark for national standards of competence and a tool to support the development of staff. The frameworks, or individual competencies, can be easily integrated into appraisals and performance reviews.
Archivist competency framework
Records Manager competency framework
Archive Conservator competency framework
Self-assessment
Self-assessment is about seeing where you are today; reviewing the skills, experience and attributes that you already have and understanding where that puts you in terms of our three grades of registration; Foundation, Registered or Fellow.
Download the relevant self-assessment form below and choose the competencies you think apply to you. Using the competency framework, review the examples given in each of the five competency level descriptions and select the level that best fits your experience Record this in the self-assessment form and use it to plan your professional development and apply for ARA professional registration.
Archivist Self-Assessment Form