The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental international body that develops and publishes globally recognised standards. These standards support innovation, improve quality, ensure safety, and promote interoperability across a wide range of sectors. In the education sector, ISO standards provide robust frameworks to ensure the delivery of high-quality, learner-centered experiences. By obtaining relevant ISO certifications, Recognition Education demonstrated its commitment to excellence, transparency, and continuous improvement—reinforcing its mission to deliver accessible, transformative learning for all.

ISO 21001:2018 – Educational Organisations Management Systems 

Overview: 

ISO 21001 is an educational organisation management system (EOMS) standard, built upon the principles of ISO 9001, but specifically designed for educational institutions. While ISO 9001 is a broader quality management system applicable to various organisations, ISO 21001 focuses on the unique aspects of education, including learner satisfaction, staff development, and continuous improvement within the context of teaching and learning. 

It specifies the requirements for a management system tailored to educational organisations that seek to support the acquisition and development of competence through teaching, learning, or research. 

Recognition Education successfully implemented and certified to ISO 21001:2018, affirming its capability to consistently meet learner needs and enhance satisfaction. 

This certification has the organisation's focus on structured quality processes, inclusive learning environments, and outcome-based education. 

In February 2024, ISO 21001 was enhanced with Amendment 1, which introduced specific guidance on incorporating climate action into educational management systems. This amendment reflects a broader international commitment to addressing climate change through institutional responsibility and sustainable practices. The update aligns with the objectives of the London Declaration, which calls for urgent integration of climate-related considerations into all relevant ISO standards. 

For Recognition Education, this amendment encourages the inclusion of climate aware policies and procedures within strategic planning, resource allocation, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement. 

By adopting this amendment, Recognition Education has reaffirmed its dedication not only to educational excellence but also to environmental stewardship and global sustainability goals. This positions the organiastion at the forefront of socially responsible education delivery, responding to the evolving expectations of learners, partners, and the broader community. 

ISO/IEC 17024:2012 – Certification of Persons 

Overview: 

ISO/IEC 17024 outlines the principles and requirements for a body certifying individuals, ensuring a fair, impartial, and consistent assessment of competence. With its application to become an awarding body, 

Recognition Education obtained ISO/IEC 17024:2012 certification to reinforce the integrity and international recognition of its credentialing programs. The standard serves as a benchmark for developing robust, transparent, and trusted certification processes. 

ISO 29993:2017 – Learning Services Outside Formal Education 

Overview: 

ISO 29993 defines requirements for learning services provided outside formal education systems, such as professional training and lifelong learning programs. 

This certification was achieved to strengthen the organisation’s Training and Development arm. Recognition Education has demonstrated adherence to global best practices in non-formal education, supporting learners through outcomes-focused, engaging, and continuous learning experiences. 

ISO 29994:2021 – Distance Learning Services 

Overview: 

ISO 29994 sets out specific requirements for the design, delivery, and evaluation of distance learning services, ensuring they are effective and learner-focused. 

By obtaining ISO 29994 certification, Recognition Education has confirmed its ability to deliver high-quality, scalable distance learning experiences. This is especially important to its mission of educational accessibility and inclusion through flexible delivery models. 

ISO 29995:2021 – Education and Learning Services Vocabulary 

Overview: 

ISO 29995 provides standardised terminology used across the education and learning sector, enabling clear and consistent communication among stakeholders. 

Recognition Education has adopted this standard to unify language across its five delivery arms—Qualifications, Training and Development, Awarding Body, Partnerships, and Publishing. This enhanced consistency, reduced ambiguity, and supported effective engagement with learners and partners.

As Recognition Education expands, it will initially adopt ISO 9001 (Quality Management System) and ISO/IEC 27001 (Information Security Management System) to establish a strong foundation for sustainable growth and regulatory compliance.Implementing ISO 9001 will ensure consistent, high-quality delivery of qualifications through robust internal processes, clear accountability, and a culture of continuous improvement. This will support operational efficiency, learner satisfaction, and effective quality assurance across all functions.

Adopting ISO/IEC 27001 will provide a structured approach to protecting sensitive learner, assessment, and certification data. It will help mitigate risks, ensure compliance with UK GDPR, and demonstrate our commitment to safeguarding the integrity of all information assets.Together, these standards will play a key role in supporting Recognition Education’s application to Ofqual for the regulation of its qualifications. They demonstrate that the organisation is committed to meeting Ofqual’s General Conditions of Recognition and operating to internationally recognised best practices in quality and data governance.