Our history
Since its formation in 1998, JCQ has played a central role in shaping the assessment landscape of the UK qualifications sector. We work continuously to create and refine the systems, processes and guidance that underpin secure and consistent examination delivery across the country. Here are some of our key milestones.
Key dates in JCQ’s history
1998
JCQ established by the UK’s major awarding organisations (AQA, CCEA, OCR, Pearson and WJEC), setting a shared commitment to unified standards for examinations and assessments.
2003
City & Guilds (C&G) and Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) become JCQ members, expanding the breadth of our collaboration.
2004
Centre Inspection Service launched to standardise exam delivery across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, alongside coordinated regulations and instructions.
2007
Introduction of the first General Regulations for Approved Centres, defining requirements for schools and colleges delivering JCQ member exams.
2011
Launch of the Access Arrangements Online platform, streamlining submissions and regulatory compliance for centres. This marked a shift towards digital innovation in exam administration.
2018
NCFE joins JCQ, strengthening support for both vocational and general qualifications. The JCQ Access Arrangements platform enhanced.
2019
Independent Commission on Examination Malpractice established to address emerging sector issues and modernise management of malpractice, security and accountability.
2020
JCQ built on its ongoing support for VTQs, working to streamline VTQ assessment arrangements, reduce bureaucracy for schools, colleges and other educational establishments, and offer students greater clarity on VTQ qualifications.
2021
During the COVID-19 pandemic, JCQ adapts processes to support schools and colleges in delivering secure assessments and results amidst significant disruption. Enhanced guidance on vocational and technical qualification arrangements also introduced.
2025
JCQ introduced its new Associate Membership scheme, welcoming OCNNI as the first associate member. This milestone broadens JCQ’s collaboration with awarding organisations of all sizes and builds stronger links across the UK.
Ongoing impact
JCQ’s member awarding organisations collectively issue over 8.9 million awards annually across all qualification types. Our work to harmonise procedures, deliver clarity and ensure assessment integrity remains central to supporting the UK’s education and qualifications sector.
JCQ’s history reflects a shared drive for collaboration, consistency and continuous improvement in qualification delivery—benefiting centres, educators and learners nationwide.