Ascentis is a national qualification-awarding body based in Lancaster in the North West of England.
Formed in 1975 as a partnership between Lancaster University and Nelson and Colne College, the Open College of the North West was developed to accredit courses of learning aimed at adult returners to education with the aim of helping them progress to university education.
These early courses have now developed into the QAA-approved Access to HE Diploma,[1] which most universities accept as an alternative to GCSEs and A Levels for adult applicants.
Ascentis awards two main types of qualification at a range of levels: Ascentis is now accrediting learners in the UK and around the world, and is a recognised education charity, supporting over 200,000 learners each year to climb the 'qualifications ladder' and achieve their lifelong aspirations.
On 1 August 2009 OCNW changed its name to Ascentis to reflect the fact that it was now a national and international awarding body and in order to reduce confusion with NOCN members.