Commentary on Sections Part 2: Registration and Regulation of Tertiary Education Providers General quality assurance functions Section 50: Quality assurance frameworks
153.Subsection (1) gives a power to the Commission to produce and publish a quality assurance framework or frameworks. A quality assurance framework is a document setting out information and guidance on policy and practice relating to the criteria and arrangements for assessing or inspecting the quality of tertiary education and training. It may outline the roles and responsibilities of Estyn and the designated quality assessment body in conducting quality assurance, as well as the roles and responsibilities of tertiary education providers and others regarding the quality of tertiary education, and consideration of the views of students about the quality of tertiary education they receive.
154.Frameworks may also set out guidance and information regarding the professional development of the tertiary education workforce and provide information and guidance on any other relevant matters related to quality assurance.
155.The Commission is required to consult with registered tertiary education providers, Estyn and any other stakeholders as the Commission sees fit before publishing, revising or withdrawing a quality assurance framework document (subsection (4)).
156.Estyn, the designated quality assurance body and the Commission will be required to take account of the quality assurance framework in their work (subsections (5) and (6)).