Ofqual has confirmed that its proposals for a framework to allow the adaptation of vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs) in light of the coronavirus pandemic, will go ahead.  This announcement comes after a consultation in August around the principles for the assessment and awarding of VTQs in 2020-21.

The framework is intended to enable awarding organisations (AOs) to mitigate some of the impact of disruption to teaching, learning and assessment through changes to qualifications and assessments, whilst at the same time continuing to deliver qualifications that are a valid and reliable indication of knowledge, understanding, skills or practical competence.

AOs must consider whether assessments can progress as normal, or if there is need to adapt assessments and qualifications. This could include widening assessment windows to provide greater flexibility, streamlining assessments to free up time for teaching and learning, or changing some assessment requirements to deal with the impact of any ongoing social distancing measures. However, if they can progress as normal, qualifications and assessments will not be adapted.

In light of the diversity of the VTQ landscape, no single approach to adaptation will be prescribed but consistent approaches will be encouraged.

An extended VTQ Extraordinary Regulatory Framework (ERF) will be introduced for AOs covering adaptations for the 2020-21 year.

Ofqual has now launched the second stage of this consultation, seeking comments on a further draft of the Extended ERF to put the arrangements in to effect. As the overall approach to the framework has been confirmed, the new consultation covers the statutory guidance for AOs around adaptation and also special considerations. This second consultation also includes proposals for how the regulatory framework will cover assessments taken in autumn 2020.