Active IQ and NCFE integration

Why is Active IQ integrating with NCFE?

 

Active IQ was acquired by NCFE in 2022, and this next phase of integration brings together the strengths of both organisations into a single, enhanced offering. By combining expertise, resources and capabilities, we can provide greater breadth in qualifications, assessment solutions and customer support, while continuing to serve the sport, active leisure and wellbeing sector with specialist focus and expertise.

 

Will the Active IQ brand continue?

 

Yes. Active IQ will continue as a recognised and respected specialist brand within NCFE, maintaining its strong reputation in the active leisure and wellbeing sector.

 

Will Active IQ qualifications still be available?

 

Learners can continue to be registered onto Active IQ qualifications throughout the integration process. Both NCFE and Active IQ portfolios will undergo regular review and maintenance to ensure the highest levels of quality as part of our normal business operations. Any planned changes, including any additions to the portfolio, will be clearly communicated within a reasonable notice period.

 

Will there be any changes to certification or awarding arrangements?

 

There are no immediate changes. Any future operational or process changes will be communicated clearly and well in advance with appropriate guidance to ensure customers are fully supported.

 

What does this mean for centres and training providers?

 

Centres and training providers will continue to receive support from their existing contacts and teams. Over time, customers will benefit from access to broader products, services, expertise and resources across the combined organisation.

 

What does this mean for existing learner registrations and certifications?

 

All existing learner registrations and certifications will remain valid throughout the integration process. Learners currently registered on Active IQ qualifications will continue to be supported and there will be no disruption to certification services. Any future changes that may affect operational processes will be communicated clearly and well in advance to centres and learners.

 

Will account managers and customer support contacts remain the same?

 

Yes, where possible, during the integration period customers will continue to work with their existing Active IQ contacts and account managers. We will let customers know ahead of time if there are any changes to points of contact, but rest assured that maintaining strong, personal relationships and high levels of customer service remains a priority.

 

Will there be changes to systems or processes?

 

As part of the integration, we’re reviewing systems and processes to create a more efficient experience for customers over time. Where changes affect centres, learners or delivery partners, these will be communicated in advance alongside guidance, support and training where necessary.

 

Will I need to go through approval with NCFE? If so, what is that process?

 

For all existing Active IQ centres, approvals will be transferred over automatically as part of integration and there is nothing else required.

 

If you are not an NCFE approved centre but would like to deliver NCFE qualifications, prior to integration, fast-track approval will be given. You will need to complete the new centre approval form, and we will process your approval within 5 working days. The detailed process on gaining centre approval can be found here.

 

If you are already an approved NCFE centre but do not currently have approval to deliver the suitable alternative qualification, you’ll simply require approval for an additional qualification, which can be done via the NCFE website. The detailed process for gaining approval for additional qualifications can be found here.

 

Once the form is submitted you’ll receive an email confirmation. Within one working day you’ll receive confirmation from [email protected] that you’re approved to deliver and will be able to make registrations in the NCFE Portal. There will be no additional approval fee charged.

 

Will I keep the same EQA?

 

The EQA allocated to your centre will remain unchanged to ensure you have consistency. Should we need to make any changes to EQA allocations in the future, we will contact you.

 

Will there be changes to fees and pricing?

 

From the start of the new academic year (1 August 2026), Active IQ and NCFE will continue to operate as two separate awarding organisations. Because of this, we will follow normal business operations and publish two separate fees and pricing lists. We plan to bring these together later in the year as part of the integration and will share further updates at that point.

 

Will the qualification numbers change?

 

No, qualification numbers will remain the same.

 

Will funding change?

 

No, there will be no changes to funding.

 

Will I see any changes this academic year?

 

We are currently reviewing fees and will provide an update towards the end of June, where we aim to align some centre fees where possible.

 

If I’m a customer of both Active IQ and NCFE, will I be charged twice?

 

No. If you are approved with both Active IQ and NCFE, you will only be charged one annual centre recognition fee for the 2026/27 academic year.

 

Will the Active IQ brand / logo still be in operation?

 

Yes. There will be some visual brand changes and updates as we progress integration, but we recognise the value of the Active IQ brand, and as a key part of our future it is very much here to stay.

 

What will be the impact of rebranding NCFE sport qualifications as Active IQ?

 

There will be no impact to the qualification itself. The only change will be that both NCFE and Active IQ brand names will be in the qualification title.

 

What benefits will customers see from the integration?

 

The integration will enable customers to benefit from:

 

• A broader portfolio of qualifications and learning solutions
• Enhanced assessment and delivery options
• Increased investment in sector innovation and support
• Greater operational capability and infrastructure
• Stronger representation and advocacy for the sector.

 

How will this benefit learners?

 

By combining expertise and resources, the integrated organisation will be able to support more learners through clearer progression pathways, expanded learning opportunities and qualifications aligned to evolving workforce needs.

 

Will Active IQ still focus on the active leisure and wellbeing sector?

 

Absolutely. The sport, active leisure and wellbeing sector remains a strategic priority area for NCFE, and Active IQ’s specialist expertise, sector relationships and advocacy work will continue.

 

Will Active IQ qualifications continue to be recognised by employers and the sector?

 

Yes. Maintaining the strong employer and sector recognition of Active IQ qualifications remains a priority. Active IQ qualifications will continue to be developed and quality assured in line with sector and regulatory requirements, supported by the combined expertise, relationships and infrastructure of NCFE and Active IQ.

 

What does this mean for regulatory compliance and quality assurance?

 

Both Active IQ and NCFE are established awarding organisations with strong regulatory and quality assurance frameworks. The integration will strengthen operational resilience while maintaining the high standards customers and learners expect.

 

When will the integration be completed?

 

The full integration is expected to be completed by the end of the calendar year. We will continue to share key milestones and implementation timelines with centres as plans are confirmed, including advance notice of any changes that may affect systems, processes or customer operations.

 

How will customers be kept informed?

 

Customers will receive a regular monthly bulletin throughout the integration process. We will also continue updating the dedicated web page and provide guidance and support where needed.

 

Who should I contact if I have questions?

 

Customers are encouraged to contact their respective account manager directly or email [email protected] with any questions or concerns.