The desired outcome of this study is to develop and implement a quality assurance system for Youthreach and Senior Traveller Training Centres. The study explores the development of the two programmes and specifically investigates the changes leading to a focus on improvement and quality. The literature associated with the study involves an examination of the concepts of quality and quality education as well as the origins of the quality movement in business and possible relevance of such approaches in an education setting. Key issues relating to quality systems in education are investigated including accountability, capacity building, professionalism and educational change. Various efforts to improve the quality of education provision are examined such as the school effectiveness, school improvement and quality assurance movements. Finally, the literature focuses on potential key elements of the quality framework: self-evaluation, inspection and planning. An action research methodology is used as it allows for the development of knowledge together with the implementation of actions and it also supports the change process. Elliott’s model of action research is applied through four action research cycles: an exploratory phase; a consultation and development phase; a pilot phase and a re-development and national roll-out phase. The research findings focus on the views of participants following the pilot phase and their recommendations for improvement prior to national roll-out. Four years following the roll-out of the Quality Framework Initiative to all Youthreach and Senior Traveller Training Centres, the research examines the implementation and impact of the of the initiative.