Self Assessment (SAR)

The Self Assessment Report (SAR) is our approach to assuring and improving the quality of primary care learning environments through one shared, supportive assessment process.

SAR brings together education quality information into a single view, aligned to the NHS England Education Quality Framework, and replaces multiple overlapping assessment processes.

What does the Self Assessment cover?

The SAR looks at the whole learning environment, not individual learners or educators. It considers how well an organisation supports education and training across six key areas:

• Learning environment and culture
• Educational governance and quality
• Developing and supporting learners
• Developing and supporting educators
• Delivering programmes and curricula
• Developing a sustainable workforce

Why SAR matters

The Single Assessment:

• Reduces duplication for practices and providers
• Supports consistent quality standards across primary care
• Identifies strengths as well as areas for development
• Enables early, supportive intervention where needed
• Provides assurance for learners, educators and partner organisations

How SAR works

Information is collected once and reviewed collaboratively with Training Hubs and quality teams. Where standards are fully met, no further action is required.

If any areas are identified as partially met or not met, this is managed in a supportive, improvement‑focused way, working with the organisation to agree proportionate next steps. Only significant concerns are escalated through formal quality processes.

Supportive, not punitive

SAR is designed to support continuous improvement, not to penalise organisations. The emphasis is on:

• Understanding local context
• Sharing good practice
• Offering practical support
• Improving learner and educator experience

Who is SAR for?

SAR applies to primary care learning environments hosting:

• Undergraduate learners
• Postgraduate doctors and other professionals
• Continuing professional development (CPD)

When does it start?

• The process should start in May 2026. Affected learning enivroments will receieve an email from their Training Hub,