Explaining Qualifications
Often there is confusion between different types of qualification and levels. Below you will find a simple explanation that will enable you to gain a greater understanding.
National Vocational Qualifications
National vocational qualifications (NVQs) are work-related, competence-based qualifications. They reflect the skills and knowledge required to perform a job role effectively, and show that a candidate is competent in the area of work the NVQ framework represents. NVQs are based on National Occupational Standards (NOS). These standards are statements of performance that describe what competent people in a particular occupation are expected to be able to do. They cover all the main aspects of an occupation, including current best practice, the ability to adapt to future requirements, and the knowledge and understanding that underpin competent performance. They can be taken by full-time employees, or by school and college learners with a work placement or part-time job that enables them to develop the appropriate skills. There are no age limits and no special entry requirements.
How are NVQs achieved?
NVQs are achieved through assessment and training. Assessment is normally through on-the-job observation and questioning. Candidates produce evidence to prove they have the competence to meet the NVQ standards. Assessors sign off units when the candidates are considered competent against the standards. The assessor tests candidates’ knowledge, understanding and work-based performance to ensure they are able to demonstrate competence in the workplace.
Vocationally Related Qualifications
Vocationally related qualifications (VRQs) offer a practical learning programme that relates directly to a specific job role or industry. Completing a VRQ means that learners study and gain skills in a particular area. These qualifications follow a course structure, and have an emphasis on developing practical skills and knowledge. They tend to be classroom-based, with assessment by written and practical examinations. These qualifications give individuals the required technical skills to fulfil a job role effectively. Candidates who gain VRQs can follow a pathway to employment, study further, or go on to show competence in their job role by completing the full Scottish/National Vocational Qualification (S/NVQ).
Technical Certificates
Essentially technical certificates are VRQs and these qualifications form part of Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship pathways. Many Active IQ qualifications can be used within an apprenticeship framework including the Active IQ Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Industry and Organisational Awareness in the Active Leisure and Learning Sector (Apprenticeship Mandatory Technical Certificate).
Government Funded Apprenticeship Programmes
The training element of an Apprenticeship is Government funded through the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), and to complete a full framework, individuals would achieve an NVQ and technical certificates which give the underpinning knowledge necessary to achieve the NVQ, Key skills and additional employer requirements.
Apprenticeships within the Active Leisure and Learning Sector have been designed to present opportunities for all ages of people in order to develop a mix of practical and technical skills that will allow them to both develop at work, and, where applicable progress to higher education.
There are no set entry requirements for the programmes but interested employers and providers will need to ensure that the individual has the potential to achieve the different components, and be working at the right level and across the correct range of activities in the work place.