Anthony McClaran, Chief Executive of the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), said: 'QAA welcomes the outcome of HEFCE's consultation on a more risk-based approach to higher education quality assurance in England.

'The proposals provide a sensible balance between better regulation for universities and colleges, and the need to safeguard quality and standards that enhance students' experience of higher education.

'QAA looks forward to consulting with students and the higher education sector this winter, and to begin reviews under the new system in January 2014.'

Notes to editor:

For more information, please contact Joanna Wynn, Media Relations Officer, at j.wynn@qaa.ac.uk or 01452 557074.
HEFCE's consultation on a risk-based approach to quality assurance ran from May to July 2012. The report on the outcomes of the consultation is published on Thursday 25 October at www.hefce.ac.uk/pubs/year/2012/201227/
QAA safeguards the public interest in the quality and standards of UK higher education. We check how UK universities and colleges maintain their academic standards and quality. We review and report on how they meet their responsibilities, identify good practice and make recommendations for improvement. We publish guidelines to help UK universities and colleges develop effective systems to ensure students have the best learning experience. Further information is available at www.qaa.ac.uk.

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