Ofqual seeks views on transitional arrangements

Today (17 December 2009) we have published a document "Ensuring regulatory continuity" setting out proposed transitional arrangements that should be put in place from 1 April 2010, to assist us in moving from the current regime to an independent body with new duties and powers. We are seeking views on these proposals from awarding organisations and National Curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage responsible bodies to inform advice that we have been asked to provide to the Secretary of State as to the transitional arrangements that should put in place for this purpose.

The purpose of the transitional arrangements is to ensure a smooth transition from the current regulatory regime to the new one that will commence on 1 April 2010 under the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009. The arrangements are intended to minimise the disruption to the system of regulated qualifications and assessment arrangements whilst maintaining effective regulation.

The proposed arrangements do not, therefore, set out how we will regulate in the longer term. However, they represent what we think is a sensible starting point under the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act 2009, whilst we consult upon and considers longer term arrangements. We believe that the proposed arrangements represent the best way of safeguarding standards and protecting learners during that time.

We must provide advice to the Secretary of State on the transitional arrangements by the end of February 2010. We therefore require the receipt of all feedback by Monday 25 January 2010. Feedback can be provided on-line, via e-mail to transitionals@ofqual.gov.uk or by writing to the Regulatory Policy Team, Ofqual, Spring Place, Coventry Business Park, Herald Avenue, Coventry, CV5 6UB.