OIA statement on awarding organisations and Memorandum of Understanding with Ofqual

We believe that all students should have equal access to independent redress for their unresolved complaints. We encourage Ofqual-regulated awarding organisations that are awarding higher education qualifications to apply to join our Scheme voluntarily, so that students whose qualifications are awarded by these organisations can benefit from access to our Scheme if their complaint is not resolved through internal complaints processes. This is supported by the confirmation in the Department for Education’s Reforming Higher Technical Education consultation response that they will expect awarding organisations with approved Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQ) to join the OIA Scheme.

The OIA is independent of other organisations with a role in the higher education sector, but we are part of the regulatory framework for higher education. We work with regulators and other bodies to share information where this may help organisations to fulfil their responsibilities effectively. We are pleased to have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (PDF | 224kb) with Ofqual as a framework for how we work together and share information.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For further information please contact Jenn Runde, Communications Officer, mediarelations@oiahe.org.uk, 0118 959 9813.

1. The Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education (OIA) is the independent student complaints ombuds service for higher education in England and Wales. It is the designated operator of the student complaints’ scheme under the Higher Education Act 2004.
2. Our Scheme is free to students.
3. We have a wide remit to review student complaints about higher education providers in England and Wales, as set out in our Scheme Rules.
4. We are part of the regulatory framework for higher education and we have information-sharing arrangements with a number of relevant organisations. More information is available on our website.