Approval
How do we become a FutureQuals Centre?
To become a FutureQuals Centre, you will need to complete an Expression of Interest Form to let us know some information about your Centre and the qualifications you are interested in offering. This can be found in the ‘Centre Approval’ section on the FutureQuals website.
FutureQuals will make some initial checks and then invite you to discuss your application further. The Fees & Pricing Policy and the Qualification List may also support becoming a Centre with us. These documents can also be found in the ‘Centre Approval’ section on the FutureQuals website.
Where do I find the staff requirements to deliver FutureQuals qualifications?
Qualification delivery requirements are detailed in the specification for each qualification. The Assessment Principles also detail Tutor, Lead Tutor, Assessor, Invigilator, Mentor, Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) and External Quality Assurer (EQA) requirements, for example, occupational competency requirements. Please be advised that these will need to be approved before they are deployed.
What policies and procedures are required?
For Centre approval, you must submit policies, procedures and documents for review and approval prior to gaining full Centre approval. Some examples of these are health, safety and welfare policy and procedures, staff and Learner induction, safeguarding policy, conflict of interest policy and process, and Learner appeals procedure. This list is not exhaustive. Once the full application has been submitted, you will be provided with a document checklist which details all documents required.
Prior to Qualification Delivery and Assessment
What is CASS?
Centre Assessment Standards Scrutiny. This strategy is used by FutureQuals to scrutinise the assessment and internal quality assurance decisions made by approved Centres to ensure safe certification of FutureQuals qualifications. The requirement of a CASS strategy forms part of Ofqual’s overall strategy to improve the controls awarding organisations have in place where an assessment is marked by a Centre. This monitoring process means direct claims status is no longer applicable for any approved Centres that are offering qualifications that require assessments to be marked internally.
When is a purchase order required?
A purchase order (PO) is required for any processes involving monetary transactions, such as Learner registrations and resits of assessments. Your Centre will have its own financial agreement in place.
How do I request more users/logins for QMIS, XAMS, Centre SharePoint and SharePoint Learner Results and Resources?
This can be requested using the System User Access Application Form, which requires Head of Centre authorisation.
How can I check a Learner’s certificate is valid?
You can use the ‘Learner Certificate Validator’ found on the FutureQuals website. You will need the Learner’s first name, last name, date of birth, certificate number and certificate date to validate a certificate.
How do I apply to be approved for an additional qualification?
If your Centre is not currently approved to deliver a specific qualification, you can apply for it using the Additional Qualification Application Form.
Details required for this request are:
- The qualification you are applying to deliver
- Expected Learner numbers for the next 12 months
- Scheme of Work/Delivery Plan (not required for all qualifications)
- Qualification workforce details and role (Assessor, Tutor, IQA, Lead IQA, Lead Tutor, Invigilator)
How do I apply for approval for additional staff/workforce?
You can request approval by using the Additional Workforce Application Form.
Details required for this request are:
- Individual’s name and contact details
- Qualifications this member of the workforce is applying for
- Employment status
- Role of the individual (Assessor, Tutor, IQA, Lead IQA, Lead Tutor, Invigilator)
How do I change my Centre’s details, for example, Head of Centre or Centre address?
You can use the Change of Centre Details Form to notify us of any changes, such as a change of name and/or business ownership, an additional site, a change of Head of Centre, owner or quality lead, and additional Centre staff.
What is an Event and how do I create an Event?
The Events function is an exciting new function that will enable each approved Centre to register an Event on QMIS, assign Learners and allocate Assessors and IQAs to that event. It can be used to track the process and completion of your Learners, knowing that there’s one place to look. We believe this will combine multiple processes into one streamlined process. The QMIS Events Function Guide provides a step-by-step illustration of how to complete this process. The guide can be found in the ‘Existing Centres’ section on the FutureQuals website.
How will I identify a conflict of interest in our Centre, and how do I notify FutureQuals?
Any person acting on behalf of FutureQuals (this includes Centre staff, delivery workforce and FutureQuals staff and associates) must declare any conflicts of interest that could influence their judgement, objectivity, or have the potential to lead them to act contrary to FutureQuals’, or their Centre’s, interests in the development, delivery and award of qualifications. This could include business relationships between Centres, relationships between staff within a Centre, or across different Centres, and/or between delivery staff, Learners or Apprentices and associates.
FutureQuals can be notified of any conflicts of interest by using the Conflict of Interest Form.
How do I notify FutureQuals that a Learner requires a reasonable adjustment?
Some reasonable adjustments can be agreed upon by the Centre and FutureQuals notified; others will need agreement from FutureQuals. Evidence of need is required for all reasonable adjustments. A table of possible reasonable adjustments and the responsibility for agreeing to them is included in Appendix 1 in the Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy, which can be found in the ‘Policies and Procedures’ section on the FutureQuals website.
What is the external quality assurance (EQA) process?
FutureQuals will notify Centres if an external quality assurance sample is required. This may be upon submission of certificate claims or formatively, during a Learner’s journey. The Head of Centre and other significant staff will be notified via email, detailing the qualification, Assessors, IQAs and Learners that have been selected for sampling. The components and outstanding Centre actions will also be detailed, if relevant. The allocated EQA will then advise on availability for sampling and a feedback meeting arranged where appropriate. Certificates are released upon recommendation by the EQA following report moderation by FutureQuals.
How do I subscribe to FutureQuals newsletters?
Please contact AO@futurequals.com and specify which qualification you would like to be updated on.
How do I request a Learner name change?
You can request a Learner name change by emailing AO@futurequals.com. There may be a charge incurred, depending on the change, and further evidence may be requested, for example, Learner identification. For further information, please refer to the Replacement Certificate Form in the ‘Existing Centres’ section of the website.
How do I apply for credit with FutureQuals?
Financial due diligence is required prior to approval. For further guidance and support with this, contact finance@futurequals.com.
Why has the registration file been returned?
If a registration upload file has been returned, there will be details in the ‘notes’ box as to why. Reasons include no purchase order received for the cost of the requested registration, an invoice not paid, or Event number not detailed. This list is not exhaustive.
Where can I find the entry requirements for FutureQuals qualifications?
You will find entry requirements and guidance in the relevant overview qualification specification on the FutureQuals website or in the full specification which can be found in SharePoint Learner Results & Resources.
What is XAMS?
The Exam and Assessment System (XAMS) is the system where all online FutureQuals assessments are scheduled by Centres and completed by Learners. Access is only granted to Centre staff where XAMS is used to support a qualification(s) for which the Centre is approved. If you require access, please complete the System User Access Application Form.
Are FutureQuals qualifications accredited or regulated by any governing bodies?
Future (Awards and Qualifications) Ltd works in collaboration with industries, governments and professional bodies to ensure its qualifications and assessments are regulated, recognised and fit for purpose. The government regulators for England (Ofqual), Wales (Qualifications in Wales), Northern Ireland (CCEA Regulation) and Scotland (Scottish Qualifications Authority Accreditation) recognise FutureQuals as an awarding organisation and regulate our qualifications.
How do I access a copy of the full qualification specification and associated qualification resources?
The full specification can be found in the relevant SharePoint ‘Learner Results & Resources’ folder. If you require access, please complete the System User Access Application Form.
What is the difference between Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and Total Qualification Time (TQT)?
TQT determines the overall size of a qualification. This indicates how long a ‘typical’ Learner might take to study for a qualification, this includes time spent on individual study and assessment. It includes Guided Learning Hours, which is the time spent being taught by an Assessor or under supervision. Learners study at different rates, so the TQT of the qualification is a guide.
During Qualification Delivery and Assessment
How long prior to scheduling online XAMS assessments do Learners need to be registered?
At least 72 hours prior to the assessment. This allows Parnassus/QMIS to synchronise all Learner details once the registration has been processed.
Can I extend a Learner’s registration?
You can request an extension of a Learner’s qualification registration by emailing AO@futurequals.com.
How do I withdraw a Learner from their qualification?
The Learner Transfer and Withdrawal Form can be used to notify us that a Learner needs to be withdrawn from their qualification.
How do I transfer a Learner from their qualification to another qualification?
The Learner Transfer and Withdrawal Form can be used to request a transfer between qualifications. A cost may be incurred if the registration for the qualification to be transferred to is more than that of the existing registration.
When do we get the results for an online test?
Results for MCQ assessments will be marked and available instantly on XAMS. Functional Skills assessments will be marked by our marker team and will be available to view once marked as complete.
What is Safe Exam Browser (SEB)?
SEB is a web browser environment for carrying out online assessments safely. It temporarily turns any device into a secure workstation and controls access to resources, such as other websites and applications. We recommend that the SEB is installed and used for all assessments, where possible.
How do I schedule an online assessment on XAMS?
You can only schedule assessments if you have access to XAMS from FutureQuals. If you have access and require guidance to schedule assessments, the XAMS Centre User Guide will support you with this. This can be found in the ‘Existing Centres’ section on the FutureQuals website.
How do I access qualification sample assessments for Learners?
If you have access to SharePoint ‘Learner Results & Resources’, you will find the sample assessments within the relevant qualification folder. If you require access, please complete the System User Access Application Form.
After Qualification Delivery and Assessment
Is a claims form required for each certificate claim on QMIS?
Yes – this will detail the facilitators involved in the Learner’s journey, for example, the Assessor/s or IQA/s. The latest version of the form can be found in the ‘Existing Centres’ section on the FutureQuals website.
Can I request a replacement certificate on behalf of a Learner?
If the Learner requires a replacement certificate, you will need to complete the Replacement Certificate Form in the ‘Existing Centres’ section of the FutureQuals website.
Prior to Qualification Delivery and Assessment
Can I use my previous learning and achievement towards a FutureQuals qualification?
Yes. Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) is a method of assessing and validating learning, achievement or credit that considers whether you can demonstrate you meet the assessment requirements for a Component. This may be through knowledge, understanding or skills you already possess.
Provided the assessment requirements of a given Component or qualification have been met,
the use of RPL is acceptable for the achievement of a Component(s) or a whole qualification.
For further information, this should be discussed with the Centre you are wishing to complete your qualification with.
How can I find a list of approved Centres near me?
Find the qualification you are interested in within the qualification suite and click the ‘enquire here’ button and FutureQuals will provide you with a list of approved Centres.
How much is it to book/register on a qualification?
FutureQuals set the registration fee for each qualification, which can be found in the website ‘Facts’ tab for the relevant qualification. The approved Centre advises on the cost and booking requirements. FutureQuals can provide a list of approved Centres for qualifications. You can request this by using the ‘Enquire here’ button within the desired qualification.
How do I book on a course/qualification?
Find the qualification you are interested in within the qualification suite and click the ‘Enquire here’ button and one of the Awarding Organisation team will provide you with a list of the approved Centre details. You can then contact them and request further details, such as dates and costings.
Where can I find the entry requirements for FutureQuals qualifications?
You will find entry requirements and guidance in the qualification specification on the FutureQuals website.
What’s the difference between Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and Total Qualification Time (TQT)?
TQT determines the overall size of a qualification. This indicates how long a ‘typical’ Learner might take to study a qualification, this includes time spent on individual study and assessment. It includes Guided Learning Hours, which is the time spent being taught by an Assessor or under supervision. Learners study at different rates, so the TQT of the qualification is a guide.
What’s the difference between qualifications, apprenticeships and end-point assessment?
- An apprenticeship is a paid job where the employee learns and gains valuable experiences.
- End-point assessment (EPA) is the final stage of an apprenticeship. It is an impartial assessment of whether an Apprentice has developed the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the apprenticeship standard.
- A qualification is the requirements a Learner needs to qualify and be successful in a specific role. This is typically achieved through experience, education and training in an industry or role, and is regulated by governing bodies.
During Qualification Delivery and Assessment
When will I know if and when my qualification will expire?
Some qualifications do not expire, but some do. For example, the FAQ Level 3 First Aid at Work (RQF) is valid for three years from the last assessment date. The ‘Requalification’ section within the qualification specification also details how long the qualification is valid.
After Qualification Delivery and Assessment
When will I receive my certificate?
The approved Centre will submit the certificate claim to us, and once we have issued the certificate to the Centre, they will then have 30 days to issue it to you.
How do I get a copy of my certificate?
If you have misplaced your original certificate, initially contact the approved Centre/Training provider that you completed the qualification with. If this is not possible, you can request a replacement certificate by emailing AO@futurequals.com.
How can I verify the authenticity of a qualification obtained from a FutureQuals Centre?
To verify a FutureQuals qualification, you can either scan the QR code on the certificate or use the Learner Certificate Validator on the website. Details needed to complete this are the Learner’s first and last name, date of birth, certificate number and certificate date.
What career opportunities or pathways can FutureQuals qualifications lead to?
Progression opportunities are detailed in the relevant qualification specification, for example, the FAQ Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (RQF) can support progression to the following qualifications:
- FAQ Level 3 Award for First Responders on Scene: Emergency First Responder
- FAQ Level 3 Award for First Responders on Scene: Ambulance Service Community Responder
- FAQ Level 3 Award for First Responders on Scene: Ambulance Service Co-Responder
- FAQ Level 3 Award in Immediate Emergency Care: Fire and Rescue
End-Point Assessment
What happens if I fail? Am I able to resit my assessment?
If you do not pass any part of your end-point assessment (EPA), FutureQuals will notify your Employer/Training Provider. Collectively, the decision as to whether you can resit or retake your end-point assessment will be made. The arrangements for any retraining or revision that you need will be agreed upon by FutureQuals and your Employer/Training Provider and then arrangements for the rebooking of your end-point assessment will be made.
What is the difference between a resit and a retake?
A resit is an opportunity to do the assessment again without any further learning from your Training Provider. A retake would mean you spend a short period of time learning, and revisiting the areas you need to improve, prior to retaking the assessment.
When will I find out my results?
The Independent End-Point Assessor (IEPA) will not be able to issue the results to you on the day; FutureQuals will issue the results to your Employer/Training Provider within approximately 10 working days after your EPA (to allow for any internal quality assurance that we may need to carry out). If any actions are identified during internal quality assurance checks, these will be communicated to you via your Training Provider. Once actions are completed, the internal quality assurance process will begin again and results will be shared upon completion.
Where will my EPA take place?
Your EPA will take place at premises organised by your Employer/Training Provider; the location will be confirmed by your Employer/Training Provider once they have booked your EPA date with FutureQuals.
Who will my Assessor be?
Your Assessor will be allocated from our team of Associates at FutureQuals. You will be introduced to them on the day of your EPA.
If I pass, can I resit and get a Distinction?
You will not be able to resit any part of the end-point assessment that you have passed to increase your overall grade.
When will I receive my certificate?
If you have an enquiry, please visit the Enquiries about the Results and Appeals Policy on our website. This will guide you through the process of what you need to do.