How to prepare for a FAB-tastic Final Awards Board (FAB)

Written by Maria Karsa, Quality and Standards Advisor

The moment we’ve all been working towards is almost here. Learners completing their Access to Higher Education Diplomas are preparing to take their next step into higher education, and your role in that journey has never been more important. 

At the centre of this exciting milestone is the Final Awards Board (FAB). When everything runs smoothly, FABs ensure that learner achievements are accurately recognised and that certification is completed efficiently, supporting timely certification, processing and progression. 

By now, your FAB meeting details should be in your diary. If not, it’s important to get in touch with your Quality and Standards Advisor (QASA) as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute delays. Some providers may also have a ‘Pre-FAB’ scheduled – this is a valuable opportunity to check that everything is on track and that all requirements will be met ahead of the main event. 

A FAB is very much a team effort. Your team should include a chair, a scribe, and subject area representatives for each diploma offered. You’ll be joined by representatives from Open Awards, including your QASA, a member of our Customer Services team and a representative from our team known as the Access Validating Agency representative.  Everyone has a role to play in ensuring the process runs smoothly and confidently. 

Preparation is key to success. Taking the time to thoroughly check learner registrations and withdrawals is essential in ensuring that all learners are correctly registered against the appropriate units and that they meet the rules of combination for their diploma. Any requests for extenuating circumstances (such as referrals, Aegrotat awards or Posthumous awards) must be submitted through the Open Awards portal at least 10 working days before your scheduled FAB. 

Ahead of the meeting, you are required to pre-populate the minutes template. This year, all subject areas should be included within one set of minutes to help streamline the process. If you’re unsure about anything, your QASA is there to support you every step of the way. It’s also important to ensure that all grades are released from the basket at least 24 hours before the FAB. 

To support you further, Open Awards is hosting a webinar on 14 May, where our team will walk you through the FAB process, including how to complete the minutes template. It’s a great way to build confidence and ensure you are fully prepared 

While FABs are an important procedural step, they are also a moment to recognise and celebrate the hard work and achievements of your learners. With good preparation and a clear approach, your FAB can run smoothly, efficiently, and be a truly positive experience for everyone involved. 

Here’s to a successful, and FAB-tastic, FAB season!