Review
Introduction
All existing qualifications need to be reviewed periodically for currency and relevance to ensure SQA continues to maintain a balanced portfolio of qualifications that is inclusive, addresses progression needs and reflects Scotland's economic, social, political, cultural and environmental needs. This is done in accordance with our Lifespan of SQA Qualifications policy and helps to balance our portfolio.
Note: The policy covers qualifications out with Scotland, however, references to “Scottish” needs is due to the involvement of the Scottish Government with regards to the development, review and withdrawal of National Courses. To date, there has been no involvement by governments from other countries on the qualifications SQA provide for the international market including RoUK.
Qualifications offered by SQA are subject to a six stage review process:
Qualification Review - light touch review to consider what activity, if any, is required for a particular qualification and its supporting surround.
Formal review (scoping) - to establish whether the purpose and content of an SQA-developed qualification and its supporting documentation surround is meeting current and future needs.
Sector review – to carry out a review of all qualifications within an identified sector, to establish that they are meeting current and future needs.
12 Month Rolling Programme (Regulated Qualifications) - identification of regulated qualifications due to lapse within the next 12 months to in order avoid any potential gaps in provision.
Uptake Analysis Review (UAR): Courses and Group Awards - to establish whether candidate entries are as expected, and whether centres intend to keep delivering the qualification.
Uptake Analysis Review (UAR): Units - identification and removal of any free-standing regulated units and any non-regulated units that are more than five years old and have had no uptake for a minimum of two consecutive years.
Notes:
SQA accredited qualifications developed by a Sector Skills Council (SSC) / Skills Development Scotland (SDS): Review and any resulting revision to the structure/NOS/Work Instructions/Assessment Strategy is carried out by the SSC/SDS and submitted to SQA Accreditation for re-accreditation. Once re-accredited, Awarding Bodies are notified so they can make a submission to SQA Accreditation to offer the re-accredited qualification should they choose to do so.
Ofqual accredited qualifications developed by a Sector Skills Council (SSC) QMs should have a close working relationship with their SSC, in cases where the SSC takes full responsibility for the development and review of a qualification framework. Information on any changes should be sought from the SSC direct, in order for the AB to submit any adjustments or replacement qualifications through the Ofqual portal and to operationalise on SQA systems.