Ofqual updates compliance policy to ensure standards

School children taking exams

Ofqual has updated its policy to ensure high standards in qualifications.

The policy introduces the new Chief Regulator’s Rebuke - a new tool which can be used when an awarding organisation is found to have breached rules, but not in a way that is serious enough to warrant a financial penalty.

Sir Ian Bauckham CBE, Chief Regulator at Ofqual, said: ”This updated policy reflects our agile approach to regulation. We want to ensure awarding organisations resolve issues early wherever possible. However, when awarding organisations do not meet our high standards, we will use our enforcement powers in the interests of students and all who rely on qualifications.”

Awarding organisations can appeal to Ofqual’s Enforcement Panel if they disagree with a decision that they have not met requirements, or if they receive a Chief Regulator’s Rebuke. A rebuke will only be published after the appeal period has ended.

This new policy follows two consultations in 2019 and 2025 and comes into immediate effect.