911±¬ÁÏ

Qualification Withdrawal Policy and Procedure

Purpose

This policy outlines the process 911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications follows to withdraw qualifications to ensure protection of learners and training providers while complying with regulatory requirements. 911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications is regulated by Ofqual, CCEA and Qualifications Wales and aligns this policy with Conditions D6 and D7 of the Ofqual General Conditions of Recognition.

Scope

This policy applies to all regulatory qualifications offered by 911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications and includes withdrawal initiated by the awarding organisation.

Reasons for Withdrawal

  • Lack of demand for the qualification
  • Qualification no longer fit for purpose
  • Qualification fails to meet regulatory requirements
  • A newer, updated version of the qualification is being introduced
  • Strategic business decision
  • A qualification might be redeveloped to make sure the content is current and fit for purpose and a replacement may be introduced. If this happens, 911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications will plan for the transfer of learners to any revised version as required

Withdrawal Procedure

4.1 Decision making

911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications will compile evidence of why a qualification withdrawal is needed and go to the senior leadership team for approval. The justification of the evidence will be documented.

4.2 Notification

Notify regulators (Ofqual, CCEA, Qualifications Wales) in writing with the intention to withdraw the qualification(s) within a reasonable timeframe and prior to any communication with centres, learners or purchasers.

4.3 Withdrawal Plan

The withdrawal plan will include the following.

4.3.1 Notification to Ofqual, CCEA and Qualifications Wales

Include the following when notifying Ofqual, CCEA and Qualifications Wales:

  • Name of qualification
  • Rationale for withdrawal
  • A plan to protect existing learners’ interests
  • Details of affected learners
  • Key dates
  • Withdrawal Plan

4.3.2 Key Dates

  • Operation end date
  • Certification end date
  • Final registration date
  • Last assessment date

4.3.3 Rationale for withdrawal

Explain the reasons the qualification is being withdrawn.

4.3.4 Impact Assessment

  • Number of Centres affected
  • Number of learners affected

 4.3.5 Protection of learners Interests

  • To ensure learners are not disadvantaged
  • Make sure the Learners already registered for the qualification are accommodated for, allowing them the opportunity to complete their qualification
  • Centres will receive guidance on managing transitions and supporting learners
  • Where appropriate, learners will be offered alternative qualifications or pathways

 4.3.6 Communication Strategy

Information will be provided to users in a timely and proportionate manner, including

  • Which qualifications are being withdrawn and why
  • How the withdrawal may affect learners
  • Key dates for registration, assessment and certification
  • Deadlines for completing specific actions
  • Arrangements for switching to alternative qualifications, if applicable

4.3.7 Monitoring and Review

The withdrawal plan will be kept under regular review.
Feedback will be sought from centres to monitor progress and identify issues.
Adjustments will be made to the plan as necessary to ensure effective delivery and learner protection.

4.4 Communication

Inform centres, learners and other stakeholders of the intention to withdraw the qualification.
 
Provide at least 12 months’ notice before registration ends and 2 years for certification where possible.

4.5 Implementation

Monitor and support centres during the transition

4.6 Final Certification and Appeals

Ensure all learners can complete and appeal within the set timelines. The Appeals and Customer Service and Complaints procedures can be found on the 911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications section of the website.
 

 Centre Responsibilities

Centres must do the following:

  • Inform learners
  • Stop new registrations
  • Complete certification for existing learners
  • Co-operate with 911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications withdrawal plan

Learner Protection Measures

  • Ensure learners can complete their qualifications
  • Provide guidance on alternative qualifications
  • Maintain access to support and appeals

 Review and Monitoring

This policy will be reviewed bi-annually or sooner if there are changes in regulatory requirements.

 
911±¬ÁÏ Qualifications will review this policy and associated procedures bi-annually as part of our self-assessment arrangements, or earlier if significant changes occur in regulatory requirements, operational practices, or identified risks.
It will be revised as necessary in response to feedback from our learners, centres, associates, and regulators.
 
Policy Last Reviewed: October 2025
Next revision date: October 2027
Reviewed by: Sharon Byde

911±¬ÁÏ

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