ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Course
This is a CQI IRCA Professional level course, providing a globally recognised qualification for those with a deep knowledge of quality management or audit of quality management systems (QMS) designed to meet the requirements of ISO 9001:2015.
£1,650.00 +VAT per delegate
Course Details
£1,650.00 +VAT per delegate
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What will I learn?
This training course will cover the following topics:
- Interpretation of ISO 9001 and being able to evaluate the effectiveness of arrangements designed to meet requirements.
- Adding value in your audits by understanding the key steps in how to plan, prepare and undertake an effective QMS audit.
- Developing your ability to generate ‘checklist’ questions you might ask in an audit.
- How to use ‘the process approach’ and ‘risk-based thinking’ in your audits
- How to write a non-conformity that will deliver an effective corrective action every time.
- The skills required to lead an audit team.
- The core elements of ISO 17021 – the international standard for conformity assessment and the basis for UKAS accreditation when applied to certification bodies and those who audit on their behalf.
- The key requirements for planning for 2nd or 3rd party audits.
- Interview techniques and following audit trails.
- Writing clear audit reports, including non-conformances against the clauses of ISO 9001.
- Following up audit findings
- How to use ‘the process approach’ and ‘risk-based thinking’ in your audits
- The opportunity to lead or participate in a ‘live’ audit using a scenario driven case study allowing you to develop and test your audit skills whilst benefiting from tutor support and coaching.
This 5-day course is for anyone who wishes to lead and conduct effective quality audits to the requirements of certification bodies or to that level, where specifically applied to ISO 9001.
The IRCA Pre Knowledge requirements for delegates to attend are successfully met through successful completion of a IRCA Registered ISO 9001:2015 Foundation Course or IRCA Registered ISO 9001:2015 Internal Audit Course.
Lead Auditor status is ‘must have’ for individuals who have completed Foundation or Internal Auditor courses and are practising at a mid to senior level.
Developing advanced expertise to lead and manage quality and audit functions, preparing delegates for certification body audit positions, supply chain audit roles, leadership or senior quality management positions
This course, combined with an ISO 9001 Foundation course, satisfies the formal training requirements for those wishing to register with CQI and IRCA as a Quality Management System Lead Auditor
Our experienced trainers will assist in the interpretation of ISO 9001:2015, sharing their knowledge and experience, combining both audit skills and an appreciation of the standard’s requirements and the likely evidence available to you as an auditor. The ability to plan for and to conduct an audit are key. Gaining this ability will support your audits time after time allowing you to benefit from a defined framework, structured to consistently allow you to undertake effective internal audits. A real ‘how to’ guide for the audit of management systems at an advanced level.
We are proud to be an IRCA approved training partner and this course is CQI and IRCA certified (18082). Our company and our trainers undergo intensive inspection and assessment every year with the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA). This means that the qualifications obtained from completion of this course are valid and will be recognised by your customers and certification body.

Build confidence. Sharpen skills. Audit with assurance.
The Audit Mentor service from QCS International is designed to support auditors who want to turn theory into confident, effective practice. Following your CQI & IRCA registered training, this service provides personalised, practical coaching to help you develop your auditing capability in real-world settings.
Delivered as a one-to-one or small group session, you will be accompanied by an experienced ISO audit professional who will mentor you through a live audit. You’ll receive hands-on support, constructive feedback, and expert guidance throughout the process—helping you refine your approach and gain confidence in your audit role.
What you’ll gain
• Live audit coaching during an on-site or remote audit
• Practical advice on audit structure, approach, and questioning techniques
• Guidance on audit format, evidence gathering, and reporting
• Real-time feedback to strengthen your audit skills and professional judgement
• Increased confidence and competence in conducting audits independently
How it works
• Half-day mentoring session
• Includes a pre-audit planning call to prepare objectives, scope, and approach
• Available for on-site or remote audits, offering flexibility to suit your organisation
BSI Standards
A copy of ISO 9001:2015 will be available to you for the duration of your training – you now have the opportunity to obtain your own copy of the standard for use during and after the course.
QCS International are an authorised BSI Distributor of publications and can make available to purchase a full, licenced copy of the standard. You can add this to your purchase at check-out.
Pre-paid Training – buy 2 day Internal Auditor and 5 day Lead Auditor get 1 day Foundation Free – to be redeemed over 12 months.
Terms & Conditions: All courses must be invoiced at the same time on the same invoice and must be paid 30 days from date of invoice or before the start date of the first course whichever is soonest.
Call 01236-734447 for more details
