The Membership Organisation for IQA Professionals in Education & Training across the UK

September is the perfect time to review and update your IQA sampling strategy: Does it reflect the current cohort sizes, assessor availability, and delivery models? Are you sampling a variety of units, assessment methods, and learner abilities? Having a clear, updated sampling plan now will help avoid surprises later — and ensures your practice stays compliant and robust.

Every IQA knows the challenge: ensuring compliance while nurturing tutors to be confident and creative practitioners. Too much emphasis on control, and we risk stifling innovation. Too much leniency, and standards slip. Ask yourself: Am I seen as a partner in quality, or a gatekeeper of rules? The best IQAs are those who manage to be both — rigorous in standards but generous in guidance.

Going forward, include Functional Skills review content as a standard feature of your IQA sampling activity. Offer feedback and coaching where needed, and share examples of strong practice regularly.

Creating a supportive culture is a shared responsibility—leaders must lead with empathy, and teams must be empowered to contribute to shaping a positive working environment. At IQA-UK, we are committed to helping educational providers embed well-being into the DNA of their quality frameworks.

CPD isn’t about finding large chunks of uninterrupted time—it’s about making the most of the moments you do have. Whether your organisation slows down over summer or maintains a regular rhythm, these flexible CPD options are designed to support your professional growth and readiness for the year ahead.

By offering thoughtful, practical support—not just critique—as their IQA you can empower tutors to plan lessons that are structured, engaging, and impactful.

Here’s a quick Multiple Choice Question quiz for IQAs to test their knowledge of their role in the industry

For tutors, working closely with an Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) is essential in maintaining high standards and supporting learners

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can foster a positive, high-performing team environment and uphold the standards of your organisation

Maintaining accurate and organised IQA records supports compliance with awarding organisation and regulatory requirements, and much more...

Many IQAs have found success by committing to CPD. Sharing and learning can inspire others to pursue meaningful CPD opportunities.

Observations and teaching practice are crucial tools for driving excellence in education. Tips for IQAs on mastering observation techniques.

May your Christmas be filled with peace, joy, and laughter, and may 2025 bring you success, growth, and fulfilment

Take note: IQAs and assessors need to relax and recharge too! A culture of well-being improves all round performance and reduces stress

Take a look at some of the CPD opportunities for IQAs: these suggestions might help enhance both your technical and leadership skills in FE

Standardisation meetings are crucial for Internal Quality Assurers in Further Education (FE). These gatherings ensure that assessment...

As an Internal Quality Assurer, handling a conversation with an assessor who isn't marking work correctly can sometimes be difficult...

External Quality Assurer (EQA) and Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) are both key in maintaining standards in Education; what's the difference?

In FE, where learners come from diverse backgrounds, creating a unique learner experience is vital; the IM (or IQA) plays a key role in this

Quick Quiz # 1:  How Well Do You Know Your IQA Essentials?   1. What does IQA stand for in the context of education?     A) Internal...