The role of the external authenticator is to provide independent confirmation of the fair and consistent assessment of learners and to ensure consistency of assessment results with national standards. This is achieved by moderating learner assessment evidence against the relevant standard and the assessment criteria in the award specifications and validated programmes. External authenticators are appointed by the provider in order to carry out this role. For further information see page 26 of the QQI Quality Assuring ASsessment, Guidleins for Providers revised 2013