Orvanta Open College
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to set out the principles and procedures governing the delivery of programmes through distance and blended learning at Orvanta Open College. It ensures that learners receive high-quality teaching, learning, assessment, and support regardless of delivery mode, in full compliance with awarding body and regulatory requirements.
Scope
This policy applies to:
All programmes delivered fully online or via blended learning.
All learners enrolled with Orvanta Open College.
All staff involved in the design, delivery, assessment, and support of distance learning.
Policy Statement
Orvanta Open College is committed to delivering flexible and accessible learning opportunities that maintain the same academic standards as face-to-face provision. The College ensures that distance and blended learning provision is:
Inclusive and accessible to all learners.
Structured and engaging , with clear learning outcomes.
Supported by trained staff who are competent in online teaching and assessment methods.
Monitored and quality assured to maintain standards of delivery and assessment.
Responsibilities
Centre Director – overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with awarding body requirements.
Programme Leaders / Tutors – responsible for the design and delivery of engaging online learning materials.
Assessors and IQAs – ensure that assessment and internal verification processes are applied consistently across all modes of delivery.
Learners – responsible for engaging with the online platforms, completing tasks, and maintaining academic integrity.
Delivery Principles
Learning Resources All learning materials will be provided electronically via the College’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).
Materials will be accessible in multiple formats where possible, including text, video, and interactive media.
Teaching and Support Tutors will provide structured guidance, tutorials, and regular online interaction with learners.
Learners will have access to academic support, pastoral support, and technical assistance.
Assessment Assessments will be submitted electronically via secure platforms.
Deadlines and feedback timelines will be clearly communicated.
Online assessments will follow awarding body rules to ensure authenticity and reliability.
Communication Clear communication channels (e.g., email, VLE forums, live sessions) will be maintained.
Staff will respond to learner queries within 2 working days .
Learner Engagement
Attendance will be monitored through online participation, assignment submissions, and engagement in discussions.
Learners who disengage will be contacted proactively and offered support to re-engage.
Records of learner engagement will be maintained for quality assurance and regulatory compliance.
Quality Assurance
All programmes delivered by distance learning are subject to the same internal quality assurance (IQA) processes as face-to-face programmes.
Staff delivering online provision will receive CPD in digital pedagogy and e-learning tools.
Learner feedback will be regularly collected and analysed to inform improvements.
Monitoring and Review
The effectiveness of distance/blended learning provision will be monitored by the Quality Assurance Team.
Key performance indicators include learner satisfaction, retention, achievement, and progression rates.
This policy will be reviewed annually or earlier if required by changes in awarding body or regulatory guidance.
Join a Global Network of Ambitious Learners
Study with an NCFE CACHE-approved UK college trusted by nurseries, schools, and care providers worldwide.
