Ofqual seeks feedback on apprenticeship assessment

Ofqual has launched a consultation seeking views on its proposed approach to regulating apprenticeship assessments, including those for foundation apprenticeship assessments.

The consultation is asking for views on the future regulatory framework from awarding organisations, colleges and training providers, employers and apprentices.

The framework has been developed to reflect the new apprenticeship assessment principles published by the Department for Education earlier this year. It has been designed to accommodate the new apprenticeship assessment plans being put in place by Skills England.

The proposed framework would allow awarding organisations more flexibility in assessment design and delivery to enable them to be more responsive to the needs of employers. This includes greater responsibility for decisions about how assessments are structured, delivered and marked.

Ofqual will regulate both the assessments and the awarding organisations that develop and deliver them.

Catherine Large, Executive Director for Vocational and Technical Qualifications at Ofqual, said: "We want to hear from everyone with an interest in apprenticeships to ensure our regulatory approach is effective, proportionate and supports the development of valid and reliable assessment.

"Ofqual understands the significance of potential changes to the current end point assessment model, and the important role that employers and providers play in the system. We are working to ensure quality is upheld throughout this transition."

Following the consultation, Ofqual will publish a summary of responses and outline next steps for implementing the regulatory framework.