In accordance with the requirements set out in The statutory regulation of external qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (2004) and the relevant codes of practice listed in this publication, the regulatory authorities publish reports on their monitoring and evaluation activities.

The reports (available from this page) outline the objectives, methodologies and findings of regulatory monitoring and various investigations and research undertaken into the provision of accredited qualifications. Resulting outcomes and recommendations are also set out in these publications, as appropriate.

The market for qualifications in the UK: a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers

The regulatory authorities in England (QCA), Wales (ACCAC) and Northern Ireland (CCEA) commissioned our most recent report to gain a deeper understanding of the structural characteristics of the qualifications marketplace and the drivers for change in the market.
The report can be downloaded from this page.

The study involved in-depth research with stakeholders, including interviews with 137 awarding bodies, 53 further education colleges, 503 training providers and 500 employers. The report provides an overview and context in which to assess the potential impact on the marketplace of the various strands of work currently being undertaken by the regulatory authorities. The report will be used by the regulatory authorities to inform policy development and decision making.

The report raises a number of important issues, including:

• the large market for qualifications not accredited within the National Qualifications Framework
• the current uncertainty in the marketplace
• the implications of 14-19 developments and the Framework for Achievement in England
• the modernisation agenda
• reducing bureaucracy
• the future of technology in the delivery and assessment of qualifications.

The regulators' current programmes of work are addressing many of the issues raised in the report. Given the current climate of reform, the regulators are keen to work with all stakeholders to ensure an efficient, effective and appropriate qualifications provision for the learner.

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