New Zealand Qualifications Authority
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For Education Organisations

How do I apply for registration and what happens?

This section answers these questions:

Become informed

To become a registered private training establishment (PTE) applicants must provide evidence that they meet or will meet the requirements of Quality Assurance (QA) Standard One.

Applicants may apply for National Qualifications Framework (NQF) accreditation and/or course approval and accreditation at the same time as applying for registration. However, because registration is the prerequisite for all other applications, registration must be approved before any other application approvals. All applications should be sent in as separate applications.

Conduct a self-review

Some applicants are already operating before applying to become registered. Others are in the start-up phase of a new business.

If the organisation is already operating it is recommended that a full review be conducted of existing systems and procedures. This can be done by either working through NZQA's Self-Evaluation Guide and Workbook or by using self-review processes already in place. The review will help determine how well current systems meet the requirements of QA Standard One.

Develop a quality management system

New businesses will need to develop a quality management system (QMS).

Financial requirements

Section 236(1)(ba) of the Education Act 1989, requires PTEs to have "acceptable financial management practices and performance". There are a number of financial requirements to satisfy and this information must be included in the application.

Compile the application

Once the preparatory work is completed the Registration Application Form should be completed and sent to NZQA with the required supporting documents. If key information is missing when the application is received, it will be returned and will not be passed onto an evaluator until the required information is submitted in full.

What happens once NZQA receives my application?

Timelines

NZQA sets a timeline of six months to complete the registration process. The application will be reviewed on receipt. If key documents are missing or incomplete the applicant will be advised and invited to re-submit information within an agreed timeframe. Timeframes for submitting additional information will be agreed with the applicant. If the information is not received within a reasonable timeframe, NZQA can close the application and all documents will be returned.

Evaluation of application

Once the application is accepted, it will be assigned to a quality auditor. The auditor will conduct an in-depth analysis of the documents to determine whether the requirements of QA Standard One are met.

Site visit

Once the documentation requirements are met, the auditor will arrange a registration visit. The purpose of the visit is to confirm that the premises and resources meet the requirements of QA Standard One. Throughout the process the auditor may request further information or clarification of policies and procedures.

Outcome

Once all requirements of QA Standard One are met, NZQA confirms registration and sends a registration certificate. The provider's details will then appear on the NZQA website.

The first audit of the organisation is generally scheduled for six months after registration is granted.

 


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Page updated: 07 August 2007