QCA and freedom of information: the publication scheme

The publication scheme lists the types (classes) of information QCA publishes (a requirement of the Freedom of Information Act). The scheme covers both QCA’s external work, such as national tests and qualifications, and the organisation’s internal workings. It gives details of how to access each publication, as well as its format, price, publication date and availability.

Classes of information in the publication scheme

The information that QCA publishes is grouped into nine classes.

National curriculum

1.1 Exemplification of pupils' work
1.2 Statutory programmes of study
1.3 Schemes of work
1.4 Curriculum support and guidance
1.5 International comparisons

National tests

2.1 Statutory test and task material
2.2 Optional test materials
2.3 Progress tests
2.4 Assessment of gifted and talented pupils
2.5 Assessment support and guidance support and guidance, including:
2.5.1 Assessment and reporting arrangements
2.5.2 Reports on standards achieved
2.5.3 Guidance on collection and review of test papers
2.6 Recruitment literature for external markers

National qualifications

3.1 National Qualifications Framework
3.2 Key skills and basic skills
3.3 Qualifications support and guidance
3.4 Codes of practice
3.5 Awarding body monitoring reports
3.6 National vocational qualification data
3.7 Awarding body support and guidance
3.8 Qualifications data
3.9 Longitudinal comparability studies

Internal guidance and procedures

4.1 Diversity
4.2 Health and safety
4.3 Code of conduct
4.4 Travel and subsistence
4.5 Staff leave
4.6 Absence management

Recruitment and development of staff

5.1 Recruitment
5.2 Vacancies
5.3 Pay structure
5.4 Performance appraisal
5.5 Learning and development

Financial management

6.1 Annual audited accounts
6.2 Schedule of contracts awarded

Access to information

7.1 Data protection
7.1 Freedom of information

Strategic management

8.1 Organisational structure and leadership
8.2 Chairman and chief executive speeches
8.3 Annual report and corporate plan
8.4 E-business strategy

Public relations

9.1 Press releases
9.2 Circulars
9.3 Newsletters
9.4 Publications
9.5 Customer complaints
9.6 Customer services

Ofqual

10.1 Information about Ofqual
10.2 Outcomes of our work
10.3 Speeches and statements
10.4 Press releases
10.5 Complaints and queries

Keeping the publication scheme up to date

QCA’s intention is to publish and make available as much information as possible, limiting the amount considered exempt. Every two years we review the information we provide.

How to request a copy of the publication scheme

The scheme is available on QCA's website from the links above and in hard copy from:
Customer Relations
QCA
83 Piccadilly
London
W1J 8QA
email: info@qca.org.uk
telephone: 020 7509 5555
fax: 020 7509 6666

Copies in large print, Braille and on tape or available on request. We are willing to consider requests for providing the scheme in languages other than English.

How to request information in the scheme

The publication scheme contains details on how to access each item. Generally, the items are available through the QCA website and on the QCA Orderline.
If you can’t find the information you can request the information from the Customer Relations team at the contact details above.
QCA aims to supply requested information, where it is not exempt, within 20 working days, and earlier where possible. Requested information will normally be provided in its standard format, such as a bound publication or printout. However, we will endeavour to meet the needs of those with disabilities wherever feasible.

How to request information not in the scheme

You can request information that is not in the scheme under the Act by writing to Customer Relations at the above address.

Exempt information

Where information is not listed in the scheme, it may be because the information is considered exempt under the provisions of the Act. QCA reserves the right to refuse requests for such information under the terms set out in the Act. More about these terms and your rights is available from the Information Commissioner's Office website.

Copyright

QCA owns the copyright for all material listed in the publication scheme. Copyright restrictions differ between items. For details on these restrictions, please see the QCA website.

Personal information

All requests for personal information are subject to the provisions of the Data Protection Act, and not to those of the Freedom of Information Act. For more on this see our Freedom of Information page.

Fees

The publication scheme gives details about any costs for information listed. Access to information outside the scheme may be subject to fees to cover photocopying or printing (10p per side of A4), administration (£3.50) and postage (second class actual cost). QCA reserves the right to waive these charges where it deems it appropriate.