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Mandatory Qualifications in Sensory Impairment

An update, published on 1st April 2022,  on DfE’s plans for identifying providers of Mandatory Qualifications in Sensory Impairment (MQSIs) from October 2023, follows;

'We are aiming to determine a long-term approach to delivering MQSIs and, through the approval process, want to ensure a robust market of providers in order to train a pipeline of specialist teachers to support children and young people with a sensory impairment. Our intention is to develop a new model which will:

  • deliver a high-quality qualification that ensures that students with a sensory impairment receive the support they need from a qualified teacher able to meet their individual needs.
  • enable long-term sustainability by ensuring there is a steady stream of sensory impairment teachers.
  • raise aspirations for children and young people with VI, HI and MSI.

Furthermore, to ensure qualifications retain their currency and continue to provide sensory impairment teachers with the skills and knowledge needed, successful providers will be expected to work with partners in the sector to ensure their courses reflect any  developments and/or technological advancements, and are based on best practice.

Invitation to Tender:

 Following a prior information notice published in December 2021, yesterday (31/03) we launched an Invitation to Tender (ITT). The ITT will include the revised specifications and mandatory qualification outcomes, which set the minimum requirement of what a qualification should deliver, that were developed by NatSIP in conjunction with the sector in 2020. In their bids, providers will be required to demonstrate their suitability for developing and delivering the qualifications, including how:

  • their course will ensure the specification and mandatory qualification outcomes are achieved.
  • they will ensure their courses are high-quality and provide learners with the knowledge and skills needed to improve outcomes for children and young people with a sensory impairment.
  • they will recruit learners to ensure a sustainable market and supply of sensory impairment teachers.

The ITT is open to 09/05 and on conclusion approved providers will be expected to enter into a contract with the DfE.

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