Quality Framework

The Quality Framework is a voluntary quality recognition scheme, which is independent, peer-assessed and self-regulated. It is run for and by supplementary schools and those who support them. It aims to celebrate and record the achievements of supplementary schools and improve quality across the sector.

The Quality Framework is administered by the National Resource Centre for Supplementary Education (NRC), which is part of the learning charity ContinYou. The NRC and its core activities are funded by the Department for Education (DfE) and the Paul Hamlyn Foundation. The John Lyon’s Charity funds inovative approaches to support quality assurance in supplementary schools located in eight London boroughs.

Supplementary schools can gain a Quality Framework Award at bronze, silver or gold level. These levels cover teaching and learning, governance and community engagement. Schools must complete the Bronze level first to demonstrate that they have essential management and safeguarding procedures in place. There is also a Special Distinction Award for schools that are disseminating good practice with other supplementary schools.

How to get involved

We are keen to talk to local authorities and funders that would like to use the Quality Framework to encourage quality assurance in supplementary education. Contact your Regional Strategic Adviser to discuss further.

If you have a background in education and would like to become a voluntary mentor for supplementary schools in your area, please visit the mentors page to complete a mentor application form, and find out more about our training.