How should an External Quality Assurer deliver verbal feedback to a centre?

When providing feedback to centres, whether written or verbal, it is crucial to offer clear, constructive guidance that supports their professional development and the quality of assessment.

 Effective feedback should highlight strengths in their assessment approach, pinpoint specific areas for improvement, and outline actionable next steps. By delivering feedback in a positive and supportive manner, you encourage teams to reflect on their practice and continuously strive for excellence.

Verbal Feedback 

When giving feedback make it genuine and specific so they feel their individual efforts are recognised and valued. Tailor your feedback to the centre’s unique strengths and areas for growth, demonstrating that you are invested in their ongoing professional development.

• Provide feedback promptly: Offer feedback as soon as possible after observing assessment activities or reviewing assessment records. As many visit are now remote it’s important to have included feedback session in your planning. Ensure you have sufficient time and an appropriate setting for the conversation and consider the team’s readiness to receive feedback to maximise its impact.
• Encourage and motivate: Use positive reinforcement to acknowledge what the centre has done well. Encourage them to keep developing their practice, making it clear that their contributions are valued and that you support their professional growth.

• • Be specific – Use SMART criteria: Make your feedback clear and detailed, referencing the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) where appropriate. This helps centres understand exactly what is expected and how they can enhance their practice.
  • Stand by your feedback: Be confident and consistent in your conclusions. Support your feedback with evidence from the centre, e.g. portfolios sampling, interviews or observation and referencing assessment standards and qualification specifications. Maintain a fair and professional tone, ensuring your reasoning is clear and well-founded.

• Be factual and honest: Ground your feedback in documented evidence, rather than assumptions. Honest, constructive feedback helps centres trust your process and use your advice to make meaningful improvements in their assessment practice. Verbal feedback should mirror your written report. There should be no surprises for a centre when they read the report.

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