Building capability for qualification development
Embedding internal expertise for long-term success
Awarding organisations face increasing pressure to deliver high-quality qualifications at pace while ensuring assessment approaches are robust, defensible and fit for purpose. Building internal capability adds another layer of complexity, but also creates long-term organisational value.
Find out how we helped a UK awarding organisation deliver complex qualification programmes while building the long-term capability to deliver similar projects independently.
The challenge
The organisation needed to develop a suite of four Technical Level Foundation Qualifications across a variety of subjects within a six-week timeframe. As well as developing qualification specifications, assessment strategies and supporting assessment materials, the project aimed to:
- develop robust and valid assessment approaches
- establish governance processes and clear decision-making frameworks
- create practical qualification development methodologies
- strengthen internal assessment and development capability
- improve organisational understanding of emerging regulatory requirements.
This required balancing accelerated delivery with the development of long-term organisational capability.
Our approach
We worked closely with the organisation to implement a model that combined consultancy, facilitation, quality assurance and capability building.
We began with project initiation and governance workshops to establish shared objectives, clarify roles and responsibilities, introduce assessment design principles and create effective oversight arrangements.
We then supported the organisation through a phased qualification development process that included:
Assessment design and development
Working with qualification leads and subject matter experts, we developed a practical approach to assessment, from interpreting qualification requirements to developing assessment materials.
Quality assurance and review
As materials were developed, we conducted detailed reviews of qualification specifications, assessment strategies and assessment materials to ensure consistency, validity and readiness for submission.
Capability building
By embedding knowledge transfer throughout the project, we helped client teams build the skills and confidence to develop assessments, make evidence-based decisions and support quality assurance.
Project impact
The project successfully delivered qualification specifications, assessment strategies and supporting materials for four Technical Level Foundation Qualifications, supporting progression towards regulatory submission.
Beyond the immediate project outputs, the organisation developed foundational processes, expertise and confidence, including:
- a repeatable qualification development process
- assessment models and strategies for multiple qualifications
- stronger governance and programme oversight
- improved organisational readiness for regulatory review.
These outcomes strengthened organisational capability while reducing reliance on external support for future developments.
Training and capacity building
Developing qualifications can provide an opportunity to develop organisational capability as well as deliver project outcomes.
We can help you to:
- train specialists in curriculum design, assessment development and quality assurance
- provide mentoring and hands-on support during live projects
- co-develop frameworks, materials and processes with your teams.
Strengthen your organisational capability
Whether you are developing new qualifications or reviewing existing assessment approaches, we can help you deliver immediate project objectives while strengthening internal capability for the future.
Reach out to our team of experts to find out how we can support you.
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