Ofqual is proposing to introduce new measures to manage awarding organisation (AO) non-compliance.

Whilst Ofqual can currently issue fines where an AO breaches its conditions of recognition, it is now consulting on potentially taking new types of action in less serious cases including issuing rebukes and imposing fixed penalties. Whilst most non-compliance by AOs is resolved without formal action, these latest proposals would give Ofqual the ability to highlight issues which it would not expect to see occur elsewhere.

Proposals in the consultation also include:

• An explanation of Ofqual’s approach to supporting AOs to remain in compliance, including how it might notify AOs where it has concerns about a training provider, school or college
• The removal of the £10,000 lower threshold on recovering Ofqual’s costs where it takes regulatory action.

The changes are intended to better reflect Ofqual’s regulatory strategy and current practices which have moved on since the regulatory policy was first published in 2012.

The consultation is aimed at AOs, schools, colleges and other users of regulated qualifications.