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Review highlights ways to strengthen the HTQ approval process
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) have emerged as a cornerstone of the government’s strategy for widening participation and bridging skills gaps. This new report explores the approvals process and makes recommendations for how it can be improved.
A new Gatsby-commissioned review of the Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQ) approval process has identified important insights from providers who have engaged with the process since its launch.
Carried out by Professor Elizabeth Cleaver, the review draws on interviews with 46 individuals from 17 institutions or partnerships that successfully submitted qualifications across the first five approval cycles. The findings offer valuable reflections on how institutions have experienced the process, alongside practical suggestions for improvement as oversight transitions from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) to the newly established Skills England.
The research found strong alignment between HTQs and providers' strategic goals, particularly around widening participation and developing employer-informed curriculum. Many institutions saw HTQs as a way to add value to existing technical qualifications, increase regional skills alignment, and create more flexible pathways for adult learners.
Providers also reported that engaging with the HTQ approval process had a positive impact on internal programme design and quality assurance. Mapping qualifications to occupational standards encouraged meaningful reflection and curriculum improvement. Several institutions noted that their engagement with HTQs had deepened employer relationships and enhanced course relevance.
However, the review also highlighted challenges. These included the complexity of the approvals process, resource requirements, and the time taken to move from submission to approval. Interviewees called for streamlined systems, improved communication, and national-level promotion to increase understanding of HTQs among students and employers.
The report offers six recommendations, including the development of integrated institutional processes to support HTQ readiness, alignment with PSRBs, and investment in brand awareness through a national campaign.
As Skills England prepares to take on oversight of HTQs, the review provides timely evidence to inform next steps. The findings aim to support the continuing evolution of the HTQ system and ensure it remains responsive, effective, and valued across the education and skills landscape.