About this course
About this course
Auditing is a professional skill that combines structured methodology, evidence-based judgement and interview technique. This Level 3 qualification teaches those skills in the context of food and manufacturing environments, with specific attention to the audit types most commonly conducted in technical and quality roles.
Who should attend
The course is aimed at quality and technical staff responsible for internal audits, supplier audits and site inspections, including internal auditors, quality auditors, supplier assurance specialists and technical team members stepping into formal audit roles for the first time. It is also useful for consultants supporting clients through audit preparation and for production supervisors taking on supplier audit work as part of broader quality responsibility.
What the programme covers
Content covers audit planning, evidence sampling, interview technique, non-conformity writing and reporting, structured around the full audit cycle. Sessions include audit programme design, opening and closing meeting structure, questioning styles, note-taking discipline, evidence evaluation and the writing of non-conformities that are specific, measurable and tied to documented requirements. The programme also addresses the particular challenges of supplier audits, including managing audits at sites with limited technical maturity, handling disagreement over findings and maintaining professional boundaries across long-term supplier relationships.
Assessment and certification
Delegates complete a written examination and a practical audit assignment. A pass earns a Level 3 qualification in Effective Auditing and Inspection, recognised across the food manufacturing, quality and supply chain sectors.
Course format and delivery
The programme runs as a live virtual classroom across multiple sessions, giving delegates time to practise the audit assignment component between teaching days. Delivery combines methodology teaching with worked audit exercises, structured peer feedback on report drafts and case study discussion from real internal and supplier audits.
Why this matters
Auditor competence determines the credibility of every audit report produced. Sites with well-trained internal and supplier auditors see fewer repeat non-conformities, stronger corrective action outcomes and more productive supplier relationships. The qualification is also increasingly referenced in role specifications for quality and supplier assurance positions, and supports auditors taking on wider audit responsibility across multiple Standards. The course pairs naturally with the BRCGS Internal Auditor qualification for staff working to BRCGS Standards, and with the BRCGS HACCP programme for auditors assessing HACCP system evidence. For senior delegates progressing into lead auditor work, the BRCGS Food Safety Auditor Training provides the natural BRCGS-specific progression.
Browse all STC courses and training or read more in the food safety news and commentary section.
