Icon Accreditation is the profession's recognised mark of excellence. It provides independent assurance that a conservator-restorer has the knowledge, skills, professional judgement and ethical standards required to practise at the highest level. Achieving Accredited Conservator-Restorer (ACR) status demonstrates that an individual has met Icon's rigorous Professional Standards and is committed to maintaining those standards throughout their career.
Icon Accreditation is the formal assessment of professional competence against the 37 sub-standards that make up the Icon Professional Standards framework. The framework applies a common standard across the profession, regardless of an individual's career route, conservation specialism or working environment.
Icon Accreditation is assessed through a robust peer-review process. Applications are reviewed by the Accreditation Moderation Committee and assessed by trained assessors who are themselves experienced Accredited Conservator-Restorers (ACRs). This ensures that accreditation decisions are made by practising professionals with a strong understanding of conservation practice.
Assessment is evidence-based. Candidates must provide evidence demonstrating how they meet the Icon Professional Standards at accredited level. The ACR Assessment Criteria document sets out the requirements against each sub-standard.
The assessment comprises two stages: an e-portfolio demonstrating professional practice against the Professional Standards, and a half-day professional discussion with two assessors exploring technical knowledge, critical thinking, professional judgement and ethical practice.
Icon Accreditation is a demanding and rigorous process requiring significant preparation and commitment. Designed to reflect the high standards expected of professional conservator-restorers, it provides independent recognition of professional capability and commitment to ethical practice.
Why become Accredited
Achieving Icon Accreditation is a powerful way to gain professional recognition for your knowledge, skills and experience. Accreditation demonstrates to employers, clients and peers that your professional capability has been independently assessed against recognised standards.
As an Accredited Conservator-Restorer (ACR), you can use the ACR post-nominals and be listed on Icon's Find a Conservator service, helping prospective clients identify your accredited status.
Accreditation is also a significant personal achievement. The process encourages reflection on your professional practice and provides formal recognition of the expertise you have developed throughout your career. As an ACR, you join a respected community of accredited practitioners committed to professional development and the ongoing advancement of conservation practice.