Our history and formation
Thursday, 04 March 2010 11:35
Ofqual became the independent regulator of qualifications, examinations and assessments on 1 April 2010.
An independent regulator for qualifications
The need for a qualifications regulator was first recognised by the Department of Schools, Children and Families (DSCF) in September 2007. DSCF then announced that the regulatory functions of the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) were to become statutorily independent (reporting to parliament rather than to governmental ministers), with appropriate legislation to be enacted. DCSF launched a public consultation on the remit and role of an independent regulator in December of 2008.
Interim work as part of the QCA
We began our work on 8 April 2008, overseeing the examinations and tests of summer 2008 and along with our other regulatory functions. We operated as part of the QCA, with their board legally responsible for our regulatory functions and use of our powers. We were immediately required to react and comment on issues with the delivery of National Curriculum assessments (also known as SATs).
DCSF and QCA put extensive governance and reporting arrangements in place to allow us to operate within existing legislation, with a clear division of working arrangements. As part of this structure the Ofqual Committee (a non-executive group appointed by the Secretary of State and QCA board) oversaw our regulatory functions.
The Apprenticeship, Skills, Children and Learning Act
The Act that contained the legislation allowing us to exist as an independent regulator was given royal assent in November 2009.
Read the Apprenticeship, Skills, Children and Learning Act (2009)
Current governance
The Ofqual Board is the legal authority ultimately responsible for the regulation of qualifications, examinations and tests. It also provides leadership and direction, setting the strategic aims, values and standards of the organisation.
We adhere to the five principles of regulation established by the government's Better Regulation Executive
- Proportionality
- Accountability
- Consistency
- Transparency
- Targeting
Latest news
Ofqual confirms changes to GCSEs
27 January 2012We have published an update on the changes to GCSEs.
Seeking Board members
19 January 2012We are seeking to appoint 5 members to the Ofqual Board. The Board…
Ofqual launches consultation into how it should use its new powers
09 January 2012Following the passing of the Education Act 2011, we are today…