The Institute has announced their response to the recent consultation on simplifying the existing external quality assurance (EQA) system.
The Institute has announced their response to the recent consultation on simplifying the existing external quality assurance (EQA) system.
We considered all the feedback and made the decision to move to a system where EQA is delivered by either Ofqual or, for integrated degree apprenticeships, the Office for Students (OfS). This will be in line with a framework set by the Institute as we will retain our strategic role and statutory oversight of EQA. There will be a few exceptions to this system – e.g. where an existing statutory regulator is in place, they will provide EQA rather than Ofqual or OfS. Further detail on this will be published later this year.
We plan to supplement the educational expertise of the regulators with industry insight by creating a new directory of professional and employer-led bodies. These bodies will be nominated by yourselves. Ofqual and OfS will draw support from these organisations as part of their EQA activity.
The transition to Ofqual or OfS will take place over a two-year period. The current EQA providers will work alongside Ofqual to ensure a well-managed and orderly transition.
You can read the full response on our website here.
We will be back in touch shortly about the transition timetable and the initial batch of standards that will transfer to Ofqual EQA activity.
You can contact your relationship manager for any queries or email our dedicated inbox enquiries.ifa@education.gov.uk.