What is (was) the SQMS Standard?

By Karen MacKenzie
SQMC Associate

SQMS / SQA

The now defunct Scottish Quality Management System (SQMS) was developed by Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, HMI and the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), as a comprehensive and robust set of standards and audit arrangements for vocational training and the Careers Service;
SQMS was a quality management system, which was used as a self-assessment tool to measure and improve the quality of training and associated activities. Although it was designed specifically for the Scottish education and training market it has been used in many countries such as Poland, Ireland and Australia. The system brought together the quality requirements of a number of key national agencies - Scottish Enterprise (SEN), Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), The Scottish Executive and the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). SQMS shows links to BS EN ISO 9000, Investors in People and Total Quality Management.

To ensure best use of all available resources in pursuing the ambitious lifelong learning agenda, only the highest possible standards of quality, achievement and efficiency will do. For that reason, existing quality systems are subject to rigorous evaluation. A concerted approach to lifelong learning includes measures to ensure that the opportunities available to learners match up to the standards expected by Government/funders.

SQMC (originally known as the Scottish Quality Management Centre when part of Stirling University) – has considerable experience in assisting organisations self-assess against the SQMS standards and meet funding body requirements for quality assurance. SQMC Associate, Karen MacKenzie has been involved with SQMS since its inception and worked with SEN, HIE, SQA and SQMS Scotland to develop the standard, provide education and training for users and auditors and operated as an SQMS Auditor since its inception. Karen also has worked closely with the SQA, training QA Managers in self-assessment and has worked widely with all types and sizes of organisations in achieving accreditation to both SQMS and SQA criteria.

For more information contact Karen MacKenzie.