How do you ensure the teaching standard of your Instructors is up to the mark?

[admin]

I was recently asked this question in an email, and as it is quite a common one I thought it merited space on the forum. 
A lot of schools employ sailing and motor cruising instructors on a freelance basis, but a few years ago we took the decision to give our Instructors a contract, pay their taxes for them and also thir social security.
In exchange we have the knowledge that we have a consistent approach. Every Thursday we have a staff meeting to go through the progress of the previous week, whether its progress of clients on a fastrack programme, diffculites during the week or a new problem that an Instructor has not come across before.  We also go through any MAIB (marine Accident investigation Board), MLA or RYA reports which may have learning points which can be shared.
We have our own Training Manual which is continuing to be developed, and any useful points are published on this forum for all to share.
During 2010 we are working to gain accreditation for ISO9000 - which is already benefiting Instructors and students alike.
All in all I can definately say that being one of the very few schools that employs all their Instructors full time is well worth the investment!