What’s the Difference Between IV and IQA?
If you’re new to the world of vocational education and training, you might have come across two terms, IV and IQA. At first glance, they might seem like different roles, which can make things confusing. But don’t worry. This blog will break down the difference between IV and IQA. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of what IV and IQA mean and how they relate to each other. So what’s the difference between IV and IQA?
What is IQA?
Internal Quality Assurance, also known as IQA, is all about ensuring that assessments meet the standards set for them. It’s a crucial process that guarantees assessments are fair, consistent and reliable. Without IQA, it would be challenging to maintain trust in qualifications or ensure that learners receive the quality they deserve.
IQAs ensure that assessors are following the correct procedures and that their decisions are accurate and fair. They also check assessment practices, so they’re consistent across all learners and meet the required standards. They make sure that the organisation’s processes align with the expectations of awarding bodies and regulatory frameworks.
What’s the Difference Between IV and IQA?
If you’ve heard the term Internal Verifier or IV, it’s because it was the name normally used in vocational education for many years. It referred to the same role we now call Internal Quality Assurance or IQA. The main responsibility was always to monitor assessors and ensure that assessments met the required standards. Over time, as industry standards and frameworks changed, the terminology changed better to reflect the broader range of responsibilities in the role.
While the name has changed, the core responsibilities remain the same. IQA is simply the modern term used now. If you see the term IV, think of it as the same role under an older name.
Understanding IQA Qualifications
If you’re considering a career in Internal Quality Assurance, it’s important to know the qualifications available. These qualifications ensure you have the knowledge and skills to maintain high standards in assessments and effectively support assessors. Two key qualifications to understand are the IQA Award and IQA Lead qualifications.
Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice
This is the starting point for those who want to become qualified in Internal Quality Assurance. This qualification allows you to contribute to the overall improvement and maintenance of assessment standards. This IQA qualification doesn’t qualify you to lead or manage teams or processes. For this, you need the Lead IQA qualification, which we’ll go into in a moment!
The IQA Award is focused on 2 units. These are Unit 1: Understanding the Principles and Practices of Internally Assuring the Quality of Assessment and Unit 2: Internally Assure the Quality of Assessment. Unit 1 is all theory-based. In Unit 2, you’ll be tasked with monitoring two assessors, who are each overseeing two learners.
It’s the ideal qualification for assessors who want to progress into quality assurance roles or for professionals stepping into IQA for the first time.
Level 4 Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice.
This qualification is for those who are looking to take on more responsibility. Such as becoming a centre lead or quality manager. This allows you to oversee a team of assessors and the assessment processes and practice.
The Lead IQA qualification has 3 units. The first two are the same as the award; however, the third unit is to plan, allocate and monitor work in own area of responsibility. In this unit, you’ll learn how to create work plans for your designed area, assign and agree upon responsibilities with team members, and manage relevant information for the IQA process.
Whether you choose the IQA Award or progress to the Lead qualification, both provide you with the skills to ensure quality and consistency in vocational education and open doors to rewarding career opportunities.
Benefits of Becoming an IQA
Choosing to become a qualified IQA comes with a range of benefits that can boost your career and open new responsibilities. Qualified IQAs are in high demand across a variety of industries. Whether you’re working in education, health and social care, construction or other vocational sectors, organisations rely on IQAs to maintain the quality of their assessments.
An IQA qualification is widely recognised and respected by employers and awarding bodies. Completing the course demonstrates your expertise in quality assurance, which can set you apart from other professionals and enhance your reputation in the field.
Additionally, the skills you learn as an IQA are valuable in a range of roles. These skills not only make you a strong IQA but also prepare you for progression into other positions.
How Brooks and Kirk Can Help
At Brooks and Kirk, we understand how important it is to gain the right qualifications to advance your career. That’s why we offer all the qualifications you need to move your career into your IQA role. Each one of our courses are designed with flexibility in mind. We provide the tools and resources you need to excel.
You’ll be guided by an experienced team. The team is here to support you with personalised advice and step-by-step guidance. Ready to take the next step in your career? Get in touch with us today either by email at training@brooksandkirk.ac.uk or by phone on 01205 805155 and we’d be happy to answer all your questions about the IQA course.