Level 4 Award in Understanding the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice
The Level 4 Award in Understanding the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice was introduced when the old V1 internal verifier course was withdrawn. The course is intended for those who wish to gain an understanding of the principles and practices of internal quality assurance without any requirement to practise. It is ideal for candidates or managers who just want to understand the work of an internal verifier.
About this qualification
This course is the foundation unit for all internal quality assurance qualifications. It does not qualify you as an internal verifier but provides the theoretical knowledge and understanding that underpins IQA practice. The course has a 45 hours guided learning requirement and you are usually expected to complete within 3 to 6 weeks.
Course Structure
To gain this qualification, learners must complete the following units:
| Unit Number | Unit Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understanding the principles and practices of internally assuring the quality of assessment | 6 |
Course Delivery and Support
Online (Distance Learning)
Our online distance learning option allows you to complete this course at your own pace from the comfort of your home or workplace. You will be assigned a dedicated personal tutor who will provide expert guidance, constructive feedback, and individual support throughout your course. All learning materials, assignment templates, and study guides are accessible 24/7 via our online learning portal.
Blended Learning
Blended learning combines the flexibility of independent online study with targeted face-to-face or live virtual workshops. This option allows you to work through theory assignments in your own time while benefiting from interactive practical sessions.
How long is this course?
Key Facts
Completion time depends on your personal commitment, the quality of your evidence, and your ability to study. We expect learners to complete the course within 3 to 6 weeks.
Entry Requirements
This course is open to anyone. You will be expected to have basic numeracy, literacy and IT skills in line with national occupational skills for internal quality assurers. You are also expected to be committed and serious about achieving the qualification. All learners should have access to the internet and a word processor.
Assessment
The course is assessed by a portfolio of evidence. You will normally be expected to complete written assignments to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of internal quality assurance.
What can I do after completion?
You can go on to complete the Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice (the practical IQA qualification) or any other learning and development courses.
How This Fits with the Other Quality Assurance Qualifications
| Qualification | Price | Credits | GLH | Practical requirement | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Understanding the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice (this course) | £190 | 6 | 45 | Knowledge only - does not qualify you as an internal verifier | 3 to 6 weeks |
| Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice (IQA Award) | £395 (£250 upgrade price if you already hold this course) | 12 | 90 | Access to at least two assessors to supervise | 2 to 10 weeks |
| Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice (Certificate) | £490 | 17 | 115 | Team leader status, plus access to at least two assessors | 3 to 15 weeks |
This course's unit is the shared foundational unit built into both the full IQA Award and the Leading IQA Certificate, so it doesn't need to be taken as a separate purchase before either. Taking it standalone mainly suits you if you want this knowledge now without yet meeting a full qualification's practical requirement, access to at least two assessors to supervise, and it unlocks a reduced upgrade price on the full IQA Award when you're ready to move on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this course qualify me as an internal verifier?
No. This is a knowledge-based qualification that provides the theoretical understanding underpinning internal quality assurance practice, but it doesn't certify you as an internal verifier. For that, you'll need the full Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice, or the Leading IQA Certificate.
Do I need to take this before the full IQA Award?
Not as a separate purchase: this unit is built into both the full IQA Award and the Leading IQA Certificate, so you cover this content either way. Taking it standalone first mainly makes sense if you want the knowledge now but aren't ready to meet the full Award's practical requirement yet, since holding it unlocks a reduced upgrade price when you do move on.
How is this course assessed?
Through a portfolio of evidence, using written assignments that demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of internal quality assurance principles and practice. There's no requirement to supervise assessors in practice for this course.
What can I do after completing this course?
You can progress to the full Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice, at a reduced upgrade price since you already hold this unit, or, if you're in a role managing the wider IQA process, the Leading IQA Certificate.
Enrolment (Costs and Signing up)
Our course fees are fully inclusive and cover awarding body registration, dedicated tutor support, tutorial guidance, access to online learning resources, portfolio assessments, quality assurance and certification. There are no hidden fees. Payment is required within 5 days of booking.
Online / Distance Learning
Full cost: £190. Instalments: deposit £110, one monthly instalment of £110.
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