That's Quality!

Description

This event is part of a two-part programme:

1. The online self-study module should be completed prior to attending the residential training. It will provide officers with a detailed overview of quality in Scotland and is designed to be referenced throughout the whole academic year.
2. The 2½ day residential event will consist of interactive group activities and additional taught content, allowing attendees to explore what they have learnt in practice and to network with colleagues from across the tertiary sector. It will be held at Queen Margaret University, beginning in the afternoon on Monday 10th August, followed by two full days on 11th & 12th August 2026.

Attendees are expected to attend the residential event, as well as completing the self-study module.

Optional online introductory sessions

Please note that ahead of the residential event, we will be offering two optional online introductory sessions, aimed at new officers. More details will be provided upon registration.

Audience

That’s Quality! is aimed at new and returning student officers and students' association staff with an education remit. It will provide a valuable addition to planned induction for new officers - introducing participants to Scotland’s approach to quality enhancement, looking at why quality matters to students and how to use it to make change.

Timings and venue info

• The online self-study module will be made available in July.
• 2½-day residential event on 10th, 11th & 12th August 2026
  ~ the event will begin at 2.00pm on Monday 10th August (arrival from 1.30-2.00pm) and will conclude at 4.30pm on Wednesday 12th August.

The venue for the event is Queen Margaret University, QMU Conference Suite, Musselburgh, EH21 6UU (tel: 0131 474 0000).

Accessibility

We want everyone to be able to fully participate in our events, providing an inclusive environment for all delegates. We are committed to ensuring that our events are accessible to all and will make every effort to accommodate their needs. Please read below a list of the formats for both events, to allow delegates to check if they suit their requirements at the point of booking.

Online (for optional introductory sessions)

• Closed captions will be enabled.
• PowerPoint sharing on screen.
• PowerPoint slides will be in a large dark blue font, with a white background.
• Breakout rooms for smaller introductions
• Participants will be able to take short breaks as needed throughout the hour session

In-person event

• Wheelchair accessible, with lifts and fully accessible toilets.
• Disabled parking available.
• Hearing loop enabled.
• Printed materials will be on white paper, black Verdana font size 10.
• PowerPoint slides will be in a large dark blue font, on a white background.
• There will be a morning, lunch and afternoon break each day.
• Training will be held in main plenary with approximately 80 delegates and smaller group work in separate rooms.
• Standard rooms will have a single bed and en suite shower (cubicle) and toilet.

We can arrange printed material in different formats, BSL interpreters, mobility adaptations, dietary requirements and most other requirements. Delegates are  asked to let us know what they need when registering, to allow us to meet requests.  Please provide as much information as possible in terms of any adjustments that may be required. 
 

Queries

For more information, or if you have any queries regarding any parts of this programme, please contact Chase Greenfield, Development Consultant – chase.greenfield@sparqs.ac.uk. 
 

Event costs and terms and conditions

The cost of this two-part programme is £165 per delegate, which includes the self-study module and the joint, two and a half-day residential event. The cost includes dinner, bed and breakfast at the residential event. sparqs will cover all the other event costs, e.g. meeting rooms, catering and development of all materials.

The rate increase (from previous years) reflects the additional night of accommodation. All other costs attributed to the additional day have been covered by sparqs. 

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds once places have been booked.  If delegates book a place but are later unable to attend, they are permitted to send an alternate from their institution.

Pricing

This is a chargeable event, with the following pricing options:

2-part package (self-study module & residential event)

£165.00