Bye bye QCF 06 August 2015

Following responses to its consultation, Ofqual has confirmed the arrangements for withdrawing the QCF. The QCF rules will be withdrawn and the unit bank closed on 30 September 2015. On 1 October 2015 a new framework for all Ofqual-regulated qualifications will be introduced - the Regulated Qualifications Framework. 

“When we reviewed the QCF last year, we found that the rules placed too much focus on structure, and not enough on validity, and that they were not flexible enough to meet the variety of needs covered by vocational qualifications” says Ofqual, finding much support for proposals to remove the QCF rules.

Ofqual claims that it’s unlikely that centres will see much difference in most qualifications as a result of these changes, at least in the short term, but that changes to how the size and level of demand of qualifications are described will be introduced.

Next steps

More information on the technical aspects of the changes and on the publication of new rules for exam boards will follow next month.