As part of JACIE’s continuous improvement projects, a review of the current, New-Inspector Training programme was conducted in Autumn 2025. We would like to sincerely thank all inspectors who took the time to respond to the survey and share their thoughtful feedback. Your input has been invaluable in helping us continuously strengthen and refine the programme.
Since re-starting the inspector training courses post-pandemic there has been ten training courses with a further two courses planned for 2026. The post-covid format saw the transition of some onsite elements into an e-learning format, reducing the onsite commitment for the training from two to one day, allowing more access and flexibility in participation for the busy clinical and scientific community.
| Year | Course Venues |
| 2022 | Spain |
| 2023 | Spain, France, Turkey |
| 2024 | Spain, UK, Sweden |
| 2025 | Italy, Switzerland, Germany |
The survey was distributed on 22 September 2025 to 128 inspectors who had completed their training since 2022. The feedback provides a constructive and comprehensive overview of the current training format.
Overall Impression
The training programme was widely regarded as effective and well structured. All components were positively rated, with the majority of responses scoring four or five out of five. While the online course was rated slightly lower than the in-person components, it was still viewed favourably overall.
A clear message emerged from the survey: the blended format works. Inspectors value the combination of online preparation, face-to-face learning, and real-world observation.
The Strength of the Onsite Experience
The onsite training component was consistently described as the most valuable part of the programme. Participants appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with experienced inspectors and JACIE staff, ask questions in real time, and discuss scenarios in a mock environment. Role-play exercises and practical discussions were highlighted as particularly helpful in understanding how inspections unfold in practice.
Beyond content, the in-person setting created space for meaningful exchanges. Many respondents emphasised that meeting colleagues from other centres across Europe and sharing experiences added depth to the learning experience. The networking element is clearly one of the programme’s highlights.
Observer Visits: Turning Theory into Practice
The observer visit received the highest overall ratings. Inspectors described it as formative and essential, allowing them to translate theoretical knowledge into practical understanding. Observing an experienced inspector conduct an inspection helped clarify expectations and interpretation of standards.
Several respondents noted that while theory provides a framework, real-life exposure builds confidence. For many, the observer visit helped the inspection process “make sense”.
That said, some inspectors expressed a desire for more structured guidance during observer visits, including clearer instructions on what to focus on and how to take effective notes. Others suggested that more than one observer visit, particularly for those inspecting multiple scopes, would further strengthen preparedness.
Areas for Development
While the overall feedback was very positive, respondents identified several areas where additional clarity and support would be beneficial.
A recurring theme was the need for more practical guidance on applying the standards. Inspectors requested deeper discussion of difficult or ambiguous standards, clearer explanation of what constitutes full, partial, or non-compliance, and better understanding of acceptable deviations. Many also asked for more hands-on experience in completing checklists and writing inspection reports, including examples of real cases or model reports.
Another common concern was uncertainty during early inspections. Some inspectors felt unsure about how to judge borderline cases or whom to contact when in doubt. Although support from the JACIE team was acknowledged, respondents suggested that more explicit guidance about available support channels would help build confidence, particularly for first-time inspectors.
Timing was also mentioned. Several respondents felt that the observer visit should take place as soon as possible after the onsite training to maintain continuity and momentum. A shorter gap between training and practice is indicative of enhanced readiness.
Finally, a few operational improvements were suggested, including improving certain online course videos, offering clearer upfront explanations of the full training pathway, and providing occasional refresher sessions or forums for inspectors to exchange experiences.
Key Reflections
The survey reinforces that the current Inspector Training programme is strong and valued by participants. The blended approach is effective, with onsite interaction and observer visits standing out as the most impactful elements. At the same time, there is room to enhance practical guidance around standards interpretation, checklist completion, and report writing, as well as to provide additional structure and reassurance for new inspectors.
Importantly, the feedback reflects a highly engaged inspector community that is motivated to perform its role well and committed to maintaining high standards within the JACIE certification programme.
The feedback is used to improve the forthcoming courses and to better support the new inspectors into the JACIE certification process, with small and key improvements scheduled for the upcoming year.
If you are a JACIE Inspector and you would like to contribute additional feedback to our New-Inspector Training Course, please contact inspectors@ebmt.org.