UK’s first cross-tertiary regulatory system launched in Wales

Medr has today formally launched and published a new, cross-tertiary education regulatory system, the first of its kind in the UK.

This milestone is the product of extensive engagement across the tertiary education sector, including two formal consultation periods, and lays the foundations for a joined-up regulatory approach that strengthens learner engagement, drives best practice, and helps ensure value for public money across the sector.

The published regulatory system includes:

• Medr’s regulatory approach
• Statement of intervention powers
• The full regulatory framework, including conditions of registration or funding
• The Quality Framework for tertiary education
• The Learner Engagement Code
• A frequently asked questions document setting out responses to common queries raised during engagement
• A glossary of key terms

Associated materials outline how the system applies across different parts of the tertiary sector and sets clear expectations for both registered and funded providers in respect of a range of conditions.

Bethan Evans, Executive Director Regulation and Analysis at Medr said:

“Regulation can often feel procedural, but this cross-tertiary framework – the first of its kind in UK – will make a lasting, positive difference to learners across our tertiary education sectors.

“We’re very grateful for the insight and feedback offered by learners, providers and interested parties throughout the process to date and, while this marks an important milestone, it is by no means the end of the journey. The sector continues to evolve, and our regulatory approach will be under continuous review so that it can evolve with it.

“With the publication of this thorough and wide-ranging regulatory framework, the iterative journey towards a fairer, more consistent and outcome-focused tertiary education regulatory approach in Wales can now begin in earnest.”

Medr is developing an online application portal which will allow providers to submit the information needed in order to apply to become registered. The application process will open for providers shortly, and further information will be provided. A register, applicable to all providers of higher education, will then be operational from August.

Full details on what the new regulations mean for you or your education provider can be found on our website:

Medr's Regulatory Framework