The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) regulates qualifications, examinations and assessments in England and vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland. It oversees the qualifications and examinations system to make sure that it is fair, provides value for money, and meets the needs of learners and employers. Ofqual has been set up to ensure that children, young people and adult learners get the results their work deserves, that standards are maintained, and that qualifications count now and in the future. Ofqual also makes sure that the qualifications available meet the needs of learners and employers.
Ofqual is responsible for setting and keeping under review the requirements that awarding organisations must meet to deliver Diplomas and their components appropriately, consistently and on time, and to ensure awarding organisations award grades that are appropriate and consistent. It also makes sure that awarding organisations meet those requirements. Ofqual recognises awarding organisations that meet its requirements to award Diplomas and constituent qualifications and accredit Diploma qualifications that meet its criteria.
Ofqual sets requirements to ensure that appropriate grades are awarded in principal learning and the project, and makes sure that these are met. Ofqual monitors risks to delivery and standards and, where appropriate, notifies those responsible and/or Government, even where those involved are not regulated by Ofqual. It gives priority to making sure that learners are treated fairly and receive appropriate grades. Ofqual monitors the value for money of the Diploma.
Ofqual wants to be assured that all learners have equal and appropriate access to all assessments and qualifications that will enable them to demonstrate their skills, abilities and knowledge. As a public body, Ofqual is bound by all the equalities legislation to promote fairness, equality and equity. To achieve a fully inclusive education system our aim is to ensure that all groups can fully participate in assessments and examinations by proactively ensuring that as many obstacles as possible are removed at the design stage of qualification criteria.
