Gateway Qualifications needs to inform you of some changes that have been introduced by QAA, which must be implemented for all Access to HE Diplomas.
The key change is that QAA has reduced the time learners must be registered on a Diploma from 12 weeks (84 days) to six weeks (42 days). In addition, course start dates must be set for all diplomas as units must be selected for all registered learners within 12 weeks of the course start date. This new registration timescale will be introduced from 1st September 2018.
QAA has also changed the key measurement used to measure provider performance. The current model is to use the ABB+, A-Level equivalent measure. This has been the key statistical measure to report performance to QAA. From September 2018, the measure will be National Achievement Rates.
These changes have to be implemented by all Awarding Organisations and will affect all centres offering Access to HE Diplomas. Please feel free to share the official letter from QAA regarding these changes with all relevant staff within your centres, particularly your exams team. You will note that the letter was received several weeks ago – the reason for the delay in communicating with centres is that Gateway Qualifications sought clarity over some of the details.
As a result of these changes, all centres must provide course start dates prior to the new academic year. The Quality team at Gateway Qualifications will be contacting centres over the next few weeks to gather this information. We appreciate that this update is being shared by us at very late notice and we apologise for the inconvenience this may cause staff. However, it is important to stress that this is a regulatory requirement from QAA, hence is something Gateway Qualifications has to implement.
Gateway Qualifications assures you that we will do everything possible to support centres with these changes. If staff do have any specific concerns, please contact quality@gatewayqualifications.org.uk.