QAA podcast explores the new edition of the Quality Code

Our latest QAA podcast marks yesterday's publication of the new edition of the UK Quality Code for Higher Education.

Our guests are Dr Helen Driscoll, interim PVC for Learning & Teaching at the University of Sunderland; Swansea University's Dr Kate Chapman, co-organiser of the QAA Programme Leaders’ Network; Rachel Sutton, Associate Director of Quality at the University of London, Charlotte Baker, President of Winchester Student Union; and Ruth Burchell, Quality Enhancement & Standards Specialist at QAA.

As our podcast's regular host Dr Kerr Castle explains, the UK Quality Code, as lots of us will know, articulates the principles of UK higher education for securing academic standards and assuring and enhancing quality.

Ruth explains that following feedback from the sector it became apparent early in the development process that the 2018 Quality Code required more than a simple refresh. She adds that the 2024 edition is the product of extensive sector engagement that resulted in a principle-led approach that aligns to the European Standards and Guidelines. 

‘The Quality Code is a really good reference point,’ says Helen. ‘I think it's perceived really positively. Sometimes when we're not sure how to approach something, the starting point is “What does the Quality Code say?”. But there is sometimes that perception in the sector that quality is a dry topic. It shouldn't be, and it isn't. It's about giving equal focus to enhancement as to assurance. Assurance is equally important, but enhancement is where the really exciting stuff happens. Some of the value in the new Quality Code is if we think about how we drive forward quality enhancement. It's in many ways very proactive and can be looked at that way.’

‘The Quality Code is already highly regarded in our institution, it's our go-to document,’ adds Rachel. ‘Now that it has the explicit links between assurance and enhancement, that will really help to get buy-in as well.’

That buy-in by the sector by colleagues across a range of roles and institutions is clearly crucial, and the new edition of the Quality Code is designed to be relevant, accessible and useful, supporting colleagues to enhance their practice.

‘Academics can see the value in following the Quality Code to promote quality within programmes,’ says Kate. ‘Some academics are perhaps less aware of it, so raising awareness of the Code for new programme leaders would be helpful.’

This is a point with which Charlotte agrees. ‘I'd like to see us moving to a space where it is talked about more and referenced more, and also something that's discussed more with students,’ she says. ‘It may be that this iteration is embedded more into university practices - and also from QAA's point of view shouting about it more and making sure that we as a sector we are checking in with it.’

How to tune in

QAA Membership podcasts can be found on Buzzsprout and other popular streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts,  Spotify and Google Podcasts. On these platforms, you can explore our full catalogue of podcasts, covering topics including student transitions, experiences of pass/fail assessment, employability, and neuroinclusivity.

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If you would like to contribute to our research and/or engagement activities on awarding gaps, please contact membership@qaa.ac.uk.