In accordance with its statutory powers the national regulator for farriery, the Farriers Registration Council (FRC) has withdrawn its approval previously granted to the WCF. The WCF’s approval under s11 of the Farriers (Registration) Act 1975 will be withdrawn at close of business Thursday 5th October 2023.
The reasons for withdrawal of approval are:
- The IT system used by the WCF for planning and delivery of its qualifications, examinations and assessments is not supported and its functionality cannot be guaranteed.
- This places at risk candidates being able to access the End Point Assessment on an assured basis, complete their apprenticeship and seek registration; it also affects potential Approved Training Farriers (ATF’s) being able to access the AWCF examination.
- The Council understands that the WCF failed to give proper notice to the regulator for qualifications (OFQUAL) and to the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) in respect of the matters set out above.
- The WCF has not fully resolved matters outstanding from its last approval visit in November 2021 relating to: Health and Safety responsibilities at WCF examinations and assessments; reasonable adjustments for those with special educational needs at examinations and assessments, and access to information for candidates.
- In aggregate, the Council took the view that it had lost confidence in the WCF’s ability to deliver the EPA with the appropriate level of assurance. Withdrawal of approval from the WCF was necessary to safeguard the interests of learners and training providers, and to maintain public confidence. Any qualification awarded outwith the approval of the FRC may not be accepted by the Council for the purpose of securing entry to the register of farriers or becoming an ATF.
The Council is engaged with relevant stakeholders, notably OFQUAL and IfATE, in seeking the best possible outcomes for learners who may be affected. Further information will be provided as soon as possible.