New Collaborative Provision Procedure

24 Jul 2026

A new University procedure for taught collaborative provision introduces a simplified, risk-based approach to partnership approval and oversight, supported by updated forms, guidance and governance arrangements aligned to QAA expectations.

The University has approved a new Procedure for the Quality Assurance of Taught Collaborative Provision, which replaces the previous guidance. The revised procedure was developed following a comprehensive review of the University's approach to collaborative provision and aligns with the QAA's Quality Code Advice and Guidance: Principle 8 – Operating Partnerships with Other Organisations (2025).

The procedure introduces a simplified, proportionate and risk-based framework for the approval and oversight of collaborative provision. Approval routes have been streamlined so that lower-risk activities can be approved locally, while higher-risk proposals continue to receive appropriate institutional scrutiny, including Senate approval where required.

Key changes include:

• Updated collaborative provision typologies aligned with sector-standard QAA definitions, supported by guidance to help colleagues transition from existing terminology.
• Enhanced partner due diligence and risk assessment processes, including new risk matrices for both initial partner approval and ongoing relationship management.
• A new central register of collaborative provision, maintained by TLD, to support institutional oversight, compliance monitoring and strategic management of partnerships.
• A revised suite of standardised documentation, including approval forms, due diligence and risk assessment templates, monitoring and re-approval forms, approval flowcharts, and template award certificates.

The procedure applies to all colleagues involved in the development, approval, management and review of collaborative provision. Staff considering new collaborative activity are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the requirements and engage with their School and Faculty at an early stage.

Where work has already commenced using existing forms, these will continue to be accepted during the 2026/27 academic year.

Further information, including the procedure, forms and supporting guidance, is available on the TLD Collaborative Provision webpages. To ensure colleagues always access the most up-to-date versions, please link directly to the documents rather than storing or circulating local copies.