QAA signs Memorandum of Understanding with Ofqual

QAA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulations (Ofqual), which regulates qualifications, examinations and assessments in England.

Both Ofqual and QAA have a role in the oversight of qualifications. Ofqual's work oversees qualifications at all levels of the Regulated Qualifications Framework; QAA's work is primarily focused at Level 4 and above of The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ), and also involves wider engagement in relation to education at those levels. QAA is also regulator of the Level 3 Access to HE qualification.

The Memorandum of Understanding outlines areas of common interest between the parties and details how they will liaise so that they can fulfil their respective responsibilities effectively and efficiently.

Areas of common interest between QAA and Ofqual include:

• qualifications relevant to higher education, particularly qualifications which allow progression to higher education
• matters which may positively or negatively impact confidence in qualifications including: academic integrity, the Skills and Post-16 Education Act and the implications for ‘essay mills’, assessment design and enforcement
• information obtained that relates to regulated awarding organisations (AOs), the qualifications offered by AOs, and AOs that are Access Validating Agencies.

The working collaboration between QAA and Ofqual will ensure that oversight and delivery of qualifications are carried out in the best interests of students.

QAA’s Chief Executive Vicki Stott said: 'We are delighted to announce the signing of this memorandum which will strengthen the longstanding relationship between QAA and Ofqual. Through our shared commitment to the principles of good communication, we will continue to serve the best interests of students across England.'