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Becoming an Approved Access Centre

Becoming an OCNSWR Approved Access Centre

Providers wishing to run an OCNSWR Access to HE programme must first become an Approved Access Centre. Approval for Access is separate and distinct from NOCN Centre Approval, which follows different administrative procedures for all other non Access Programmes. This is necessary in order to meet QAA requirements as an Access Validating Agency.

Once approved the Centre is eligible to run any CAF Pathway, provided they can demonstrate that appropriate staff, resources, facilities and quality assurance systems are in place.

Initial Centre Approval Application

Providers wishing to offer Access Programmes should contact the OCNSWR Access to HE Officer to discuss the proposal. An Initial Centre Approval Application Form should be submitted and arrangements made for the Access to HE Officer to visit the proposed centre to view facilities and meet key members of staff.

The Access to HE Officer will refer a satisfactory application to the Director of Access for submission to the HEAC. If confirmed, the HEAC will award Approved Centre status for a period of five years.

Procedure for Becoming an Approved Access Centre

Access Centre Approval Inital Application Form

Access Centre Approval Initial Application Guidance Notes

Additional Pathways

Once approved as an Access Centre, Providers who wish to expand provision may apply to offer additional pathways. A formal 'Application to Offer Additional Pathways' procedure ensures that any new provision meets the same quality standards as those required for the Initial Application.

Centre Review

Approved Access Centre status is reviewed every five years. The Provider is required to submit an Access Centre Review Report which is presented to a Review Group at a Centre Review meeting.