The 157 Group has welcomed today’s announcement by Ofqual that the Regulatory Arrangements for the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) are to be withdrawn.
Dr Lynne Sedgmore CBE, executive director of the 157 Group, said, “Today’s announcement suggests a very positive direction of travel – towards less, rather than more, regulation of qualifications. We know how important it is to be able to tailor programmes to individual needs and a one-size-fits-all approach is unhelpful. The removal of the framework does not, of course, mean that the principle of unitisation is wrong or has to go. Rather, Colleges will hopefully see an increase in the genuine flexibility they have to deliver appropriate qualifications in the future.
“We are delighted that Ofqual have acknowledged the need for a gradual transition, and that the needs of students currently studying for QCF units are at the forefront of thinking. We will be working closely with Ofqual to ensure that whatever new arrangements result from the further consultation are as light-touch as possible, reflecting Colleges’ good practice rather than being a straight-jacket into which qualifications must be squeezed.”