Before we take a decision to withdraw recognition, we will give the AO notice of our intention to do. This notice of intention will be sent to the AO’s chair (or equivalent) and to its responsible officer.

The notice of intention to withdraw recognition will include:

• the reasons why we propose that recognition should be withdrawn, the date of the proposed withdrawal, and whether the proposed withdrawal is in respect of all or only particular qualifications or types of qualification for which the AO is recognised,
• any saving or transitional provisions that we intend to make to protect the interests of learners or otherwise should the recognition be withdrawn as proposed, and
• information about the period in which the AO may make representations about the proposal, and the procedure to be followed to make representations (including the details of the designated officer at Ofqual dealing with the matter).

We will send the notice in writing. Where we send the notice by email, we will assume that the notice was received on the date the email was sent, unless there is evidence to the contrary.

We may, in appropriate cases, publish the notice of intention and consult with other interested parties.