The Department for Education has announced plans to revamp and rename level 4 and 5 qualifications, such as CertHE, DipHE and foundation degrees. The plans to rebadge these qualifications as Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQ), are to attract more learners to study them. The government’s proposals are to review level 4 and 5 qualifications to ensure they are high quality and are providing the skills which employers need. Alongside their case for change, they have published an interim impact assessment on the effect of the changes to higher technical education, and a consultation seeking views on the plans. The consultation is open until 29 September 2019. Sector comment on the announcements can be read here.
It has also been announced that the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) will be responsible for approving new and existing HTQs and awarding them a quality mark. They will still be regulated by Ofqual.