Changes to the regulation of Vocational Qualifications in Northern Ireland

Changes to the regulation of Vocational Qualifications in Northern Ireland 
  
As you may already know, there are currently two qualifications regulators in Northern Ireland: Ofqual, which regulates vocational qualifications and CCEA Accreditation, which regulates general qualifications (i.e. GCSE’s & A Levels). These arrangements were put in place in 2010 when Ofqual was established, with a review scheduled so that the Northern Ireland Government could consider long-term arrangements.
 
Following a review of current arrangements, the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) in Northern Ireland intends to move to a single Northern Ireland-based qualifications regulator. CCEA Accreditation will become the single qualifications regulator. DEL and the Department for Education in Westminster are seeking to amend the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act to remove Ofqual’s statutory responsibilities to regulate vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland. The aim is to do this by 1 April 2016, subject to Parliament passing the necessary legislative amendments.
 
So what does this mean for OCN NI Centres? 
OCN NI met with both DEL and CCEA Accreditation and is satisfied with their responses to operational issues which could impact on Centres.  Ofqual and CCEA Accreditation are working together with DEL to make sure that the necessary transition arrangements are put in place. Their aim is to ensure a smooth and orderly transition to protect the interests of learners and others who rely on regulated qualifications.
 
OCN NI has created a list of questions and answers which centres can read by clicking here and choosing the "Regulation of Vocational Qualifications" section.  In addition, OCN NI will be attending further meetings with DEL, Ofqual and CCEA Accreditation and will ensure OCN NI centres are kept updated with relevant information.
 
In the meantime, if you have any questions about the changes to the regulation of Vocational Qualifications in Northern Ireland please contact [email protected]
 
Martin Flynn
Chief Executive Officer