The British Accreditation Council (BAC) has launched two new accreditation schemes, covering international private institutions based outside of the UK and online/distance learning.
The international centre accreditation scheme is designed for education and training institutions operating outside of the UK and offering courses in English. Institutions will need to have been delivering high-quality education and training for at least two years and be recognised by their local or national regulatory body. They will also need to provide testimonials supporting claims of global-quality provision and meet BAC’s stringent tests of probity and financial accountability.
For over ten years, BAC has been offering accreditation for institutions overseas that are linked to a UK university or awarding body, and Dr Gina Hobson, BAC Chief Executive, said the new scheme was a natural extension of that.
“We are aware of demand for an accreditation scheme from the UK,” said Dr Hobson. “There is a global recognition of standards and quality in the UK and a desire to replicate those overseas.” Dr Hobson confirmed that over recent years, BAC had received a number of unsolicited accreditation requests from quality international institutions.
The external recognition of the international centre accreditation scheme is designed to help providers attract students locally and globally and stand out in a competitive market. BAC will inspect management, teaching, welfare and premises, ensuring providers meet standards required in the UK, but within a local context. Achievement in all areas leads to accreditation as an international centre by BAC for three years.
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