Qualification Purpose:

This unit provides learners with an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices that underpin external quality assurance (EQA) within assessment. It explores the functions, roles, and responsibilities of external quality assurers in maintaining consistency, reliability, and compliance across different assessment contexts. Learners will examine the regulatory and legal frameworks related to EQA, how to plan and adapt assurance activities, and how to support internal quality assurance staff through effective feedback and standardisation practices. It also covers dispute resolution, information management, and the integration of technology and equality principles in EQA. This unit is theory-based and is suitable for professionals looking to deepen their conceptual and strategic understanding of quality assurance practices from an external perspective.

This unit develops the practical competence required to carry out the external quality assurance of assessment in real-time and regulated environments. Learners will be assessed on their ability to plan, conduct, and evaluate external monitoring visits, assess internal quality assurance systems, and provide developmental feedback to assessment centres. It includes evaluating the effectiveness of administrative systems, assessor competence, and sampling techniques, as well as maintaining legal and ethical standards. Learners must demonstrate their performance through observation, work product review, and direct involvement in at least two external quality assurance visits conducted on behalf of an awarding organisation. This unit is ideal for professionals currently or preparing to operate as active external quality assurers/verifiers.

This unit is designed to build strategic planning and team leadership skills within quality assurance contexts. Learners will learn how to develop work plans for their area of responsibility, allocate tasks based on skills and SMART objectives, and monitor progress against performance criteria. It also focuses on evaluating team performance, managing change, and effectively communicating updates to ensure objectives are achieved. This unit is especially relevant for those leading a team of external quality assurers or managing multiple centres or regions as part of a wider quality assurance network.