Composition Of The Validation Panel

There are two basic models for validation meetings - though these can be altered to meet the validation needs of a particular qualification proposal. Regardless of which model is chosen, all members of the panel are equal partners at the validation meeting. Their role is to act as independent judges of the proposed qualification, and to make a validation decision at the end of the meeting.

Model 1 - appropriate when significant changes to an existing Group Award framework are proposed, including the introduction of new Units to the mandatory section. The panel should include as a minimum:

• an educationist (wherever possible with knowledge of Core Skills)
• an industrialist
• an SQA representative
• a centre representative (if the proposal has been submitted by a centre or small group of centres - the centre representative should not have been directly involved in the development)

Either the educationist or the industrialist should chair the meeting.

Model 2 - appropriate for a new or completely revised Group Award proposal. The panel should include as a minimum:

• a chairperson (convener) from education or industry
• three educationists/industrialists (both categories to be represented - one of whom should have knowledge of Core Skills)
• an SQA representative
• a centre representative (if the proposal has been submitted by a centre or small group of centres) the centre representative should not have been directly involved in the development

Panels may be larger if a greater range of expertise is required, but they should not be smaller.