Scottish Qualifications Authority
SQA is a trusted partner providing qualifications and assessment across the UK.
Based in Scotland, SQA works across the UK and internationally. SQA team takes take great pride in offering exceptional customer service, which is acknowledged by government organisations, universities, businesses and individuals throughout the world. SQA is sponsored by the Scottish Government's Learning Directorate and employs over 900 people in Glasgow, Dalkeith and Newtongrange.
SQA's strategic direction is developed by its Board of Management and its committees. It is approved by Scottish Ministers. The Board is corporately responsible for its implementation. SQA's functions are set out in the Education (Scotland) Act 1996 as amended by the Scottish Qualifications Act 2002.
The organisation has two main roles: accreditation, and awarding qualifications.
SQA Accreditation
- accredits qualifications other than degrees
- approves and quality assures awarding bodies that plan to enter people for these qualifications
SQA Awarding Body
- devises and develops qualifications
- validates qualifications (makes sure they are well written and meet the needs of learners and tutors)
- reviews qualifications to ensure they are up to date
- arranges for, assists in, and carries out, the assessment of people taking SQA qualifications
- quality-assures education and training establishments which offer SQA qualifications
- issues certificates to candidates
Within these roles SQA offers a range of services for businesses and training providers, ranging from course and centre approval through customised awards, to endorsement, credit rating and licensing services.