QRV UK Quality Code Cathy Shaw Quality & Engagement Manager QRV Event, Northern Ireland 6 th October 2017
Session overview Background The baseline regulatory requirement Outline of the code Tools to assist preparation Workshop
UK Quality Code for Higher Education A strategic part of the Regulatory Framework Co-developed with & owned by the higher education sector Covers programmes of study leading to awards at levels 4 to 8 of The Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ) Subject specific guidance is contained in the Subject Benchmark Statements. These set out the skills and knowledge that graduates are expected to have at the end of each specific level of degree courses the Code s Expectations form part of the baseline regulatory requirements underpinning the new Quality Assessment system (for N.Ireland and England)
Element of baseline regulatory requirements The Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ) The Expectations of the UK Quality Code for Higher Education (the Quality Code) Focus The academic standard set for, and achieved by, your students. The reference points that address quality management; the provider s approach to learning, teaching and assessment; programme approval and review. QAA will review how it has been adopted within the specific context and mission of the provider s higher education provision. a) reliability of academic standards and their reasonable comparability with standards set and achieved in other providers in the UK b) quality of the student academic experience, including student outcomes where the provider has a track record of delivery of higher education.
The UK Quality Code: covers all four nations of the UK and all providers of UK higher education operating internationally protects the interests of all students (full-time, part-time, under/postgraduate/research, distance learners) makes clear what all UK higher education providers are required to do
The Parts Part A Part B Part C Setting and Maintaining Academic Standards Assuring and Enhancing Academic Quality Information about Higher Education Provision
The Quality Code sets out expectations that all UK Higher Education providers must meet. Part A: Covers areas relating to setting and maintaining academic standards Part B: Covers areas relevant to ensuring that the quality of learning opportunities meets expectations and is continually being improved Part C: It addresses how providers make available information that is fit for purpose, accessible and trustworthy.
What you like about the Quality Code It offers the benchmark for quality for UK higher education Underpins existing quality systems in institutions It is used to shape and develop quality processes and practices internally Helps to reduce risk associated with new providers entering the market sets the standard Provides a structure for collaboration between providers
Tools to assist preparation Mapping exercise? Compliance v Enhancement Evidence base of compliance Training & development Process review Identify improvements / enhancements
QRV: Responsibilities checklist for providers without degree awarding powers Uses a checklist to identify management responsibilities (or responsibilities for implementation within partnership agreements). Documentary evidence should be aligned with the management structure and areas of responsibility assigned. Area Provider AWB Shared Documentation Programme development & approval Modifications to programmes Setting assessments Moderation / 2 nd marking of student work
Workshop
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