--- title: "BACP Approved PDA in Counselling Supervision" date: 2023-01-01 author: "The Spark" featured_image: "https://cdn.thespark.org.uk/www.thespark.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/AdobeStock_404416234.jpg" --- # BACP Approved PDA in Counselling Supervision The [Professional Development Award (PDA) in Counselling Supervision](https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/92558.html) is designed to equip experienced counselling practitioners with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to take on a clinical supervisory role. Jointly awarded with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy ([BACP](https://www.bacp.co.uk/)), this SCQF Level 11 qualification sets a consistent and nationally recognised standard for counselling supervision training. The course qualifies you to practice as a Clinical Supervisor in the UK. [Supervision](https://www.bacp.co.uk/events-and-resources/ethics-and-standards/competences-and-curricula/supervision-curriculum/) is an ethical requirement for counselling practice and essential for ensuring safe, effective, and reflective client work. This course provides a deep understanding of the theories, models, and practical approaches to supervision, tailored for those working with adult supervisees in a variety of counselling contexts, including face-to-face and online modalities. ![](https://cdn.thespark.org.uk/www.thespark.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/AdobeStock_485852423-1024x683.jpg)### **Why Choose This Qualification?** - Gain a qualification jointly awarded by BACP and Qualifications Scotland. - Build advanced supervisory skills to support supervisees ethically and effectively. - Enhance your career prospects within counselling supervision. - Fulfil the increasing demand for qualified supervisors in counselling practice. ## What you will learn --- Through this comprehensive course, you will: - Understand the facilitative role and responsibilities of a counselling supervisor. - Explore the theoretical models and approaches that underpin professional supervision. - Gain practical experience in establishing and maintaining effective supervisory relationships. - Learn to support supervisees sensitively and ethically, enabling them to work effectively with their clients. - Develop leadership and management skills specific to group supervision settings. - Build competence in remote supervision using audio, text, email, and blended approaches. ## Course structure --- This course is underpinned by the [BACP Competence Framework](https://www.bacp.co.uk/events-and-resources/ethics-and-standards/competences-and-curricula/supervision-curriculum/) and comprises three mandatory units: 1. **Counselling Supervision: Introduction** ([J3HJ37](https://www.sqa.org.uk/files/hn/J3HJ37.pdf)) Gain foundational knowledge about the role of the supervisor, including ethical practice and the supervisory relationship. 2. **Counselling: Theoretical Models and Approaches in Professional Clinical Supervision** ([J3HK37](https://www.sqa.org.uk/files/hn/J3HK37.pdf)) Explore key theories and principles that inform supervision and learn how to apply them in practice. 3. **Counselling Supervision: Practice** ([J3HL38](https://www.sqa.org.uk/files/hn/J3HL38.pdf)) Engage in supervised practice, logging a minimum of 20 hours of supervision with at least two supervisees and one hour of consultative supervision per month. ## **Assessment** --- Assessments include a combination of: - Written portfolios and reflective journals. - Peer group work and practical demonstrations. - Logged supervision practice hours with consultative supervision. Attendance is critical, with a **minimum 80% attendance requirement** (90% for some funding bodies). ## Course entry requirements --- To apply, candidates must: - Have a minimum of **450 client hours** in counselling/psychotherapy practice. - Possess **two years**‘ **post-qualifying experience**. - Be a **registered member** of a professional body adhering to an ethical framework (e.g., BACP). - Have appropriate supervision arrangements in place with access to at least two supervisees. - Demonstrate knowledge of remote supervision tools and practices. Learn more about the application process, including the specific documentation required and how to secure your place by reading the [BACP Approved PDA in Counselling Supervision FAQ](https://www.thespark.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/BACP-Approved-PDA-in-Counselling-Supervision-FAQ.pdf). ## Course dates and delivery --- This course is delivered entirely online via Zoom, offering flexibility and accessibility for learners. Sessions are interactive, with a blend of live lectures, group discussions, and practical exercises. ![Supportive woman engaging in virtual meeting at work, attending an online video conference from home.](https://cdn.thespark.org.uk/www.thespark.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/AdobeStock_561468925-1024x683.jpg)This 12-day online course takes place fortnightly. July 2026 Course Dates – Fridays**Course Day****Date****Day****Time**117 Jul 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm231 Jul 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm314 Aug 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm428 Aug 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm511 Sep 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm625 Sep 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm79 Oct 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm823 Oct 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm96 Nov 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm1020 Nov 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm114 Dec 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pm1218 Dec 2026Friday9:30am – 4:30pmAugust 2026 Course Dates – Wednesdays**Course Day****Date****Day****Time**112 Aug 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm226 Aug 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm309 Sep 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm423 Sep 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm507 Oct 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm621 Oct 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm704 Nov 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm818 Nov 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm902 Dec 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm1016 Dec 2026Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm1113 Jan 2027Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm1227 Jan 2027Wednesday9:30am – 4:30pm