ABOUT OCNW
OCNW is distinctive in that it is both:
- a National Awarding Body, approved by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority
and
- an Authorised Validating Agency for “Access to Higher Education” Programmes, licensed by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education
OCNW is therefore able to offer a comprehensive ladder of opportunities to centres and their learners, starting at Pre-Entry programmes and progressing to QAA-recognised Access to HE qualifications or professional Further Education Teaching Certificates.
OCNW was established in 1975 as a partnership scheme between universities and colleges of further education. It was the very first “Open College” and its initial aim was to provide innovative Access to Higher Education Qualifications for adult learners. Over the past thirty one years the membership has increased significantly and the portfolio of qualifications has expanded to include a wide range of curriculum areas.
Throughout this period, OCNW has maintained its independence in order to ensure that it can continue to respond promptly to the requirements of its customers and provide a consistently high standard of service. Although it is proud of its origins within the North West, OCNW is truly a national organisation and provides a service throughout the UK. Similarly, although OCNW has historically focused on the needs of adults many of its programmes are now followed by learners of all ages.
There are several reasons for choosing OCNW as your awarding body:
- OCNW is responsive to the needs of tutors & learners
- OCNW offers the highest level of customer service
- OCNW offers progression from “Skills for Life” to Higher Education
- OCNW’s qualifications are competitively priced
- OCNW is a partnership organisation
- OCNW is approved by both the QCA and the QAA
GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT
OCNW is governed by a Board, with representation from the member organisations. The work of the Board is supported by three committees:
OCNW is managed by the Chief Executive - Phil Wilkinson, the Deputy Chief Executive – Kath Fanning, and managers responsible for, Qualification Development, Marketing & Sales, Operations, Finance and Systems and Secretariat Services.