This impacts case study shows how government has improved controls over standards as a result of our report, which underlined the risks in rapidly expanding a new market.
It is one example of financial or non-financial benefits realised in 2014 as a result of our involvement, all of which are set out in our interactive PDF.
Impacts case study
We conducted an investigation into the financial support for students at alternative higher education providers. The report and subsequent Committee of Public Accounts evidence session underlined the risks with a rapidly expanding market, and what can go awry when public bodies lack adequate controls to regulate a new market.
What are impacts?
This investigation is having an early impact. In January 2015, the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills (BIS) announced action to secure improved standards among alternative higher education providers. In particular, alternative providers will now face tougher checks from the Quality Assurance Agency. In addition, the department is using student number controls to limit recruitment at providers whose performance is unsatisfactory and has consulted on the introduction of a minimum English language requirement to strengthen recruitment practice by providers.
