Written question WQ89097
- Asked by
- Sam RowlandsConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 9 days
Question
What assessment has the Minister made of the quality of courses at universities in Wales?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
The Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) has regulatory responsibility for higher education in Wales, which includes ensuring arrangements are in place for assessing the quality of courses at universities.
The Quality Assessment Framework sets out the mechanisms through which HEFCW assures itself that the quality of education provided by or on behalf of regulated institutions meets the needs of those receiving it. The established procedures set out action to mitigate any risks identified and take account of institutional reviews and intelligence (for example concerns and complaints) and data trends.
Institutions are required to undergo cyclical external quality assurance reviews by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, in line with the European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the Higher Education Area.
In addition, many courses in higher education institutions are subject to oversight of Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies, which set out their own requirements, and monitor compliance.
Established governance arrangements provide a mechanism for Welsh Ministers and officials can discuss and share information with HEFCW, on a range of issues, including course quality as necessary.