September 5th 2010
What are NVQ,s?
NVQs: what they are
NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification.
It is a 'competence-based' qualification: this means you learn practical, work-related tasks designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge to do a job effectively.
NVQs are based on national standards for various occupations. The standards say what a competent person in a job could be expected to do. As you progress through the course, you compare your skills and knowledge with these standards as you learn, so you can see what you need to do to meet them.
Taking an NVQ could be appropriate if you already have skills and want to improve them, or if you are starting from scratch.
NVQs are at levels 1 to 5 on the National Qualifications Framework. The framework shows how different types of qualifications compare, in terms of the demands they place on learners. Who can take them
NVQs are available to adults and young people alike. You can take NVQs if:
- you are employed
- you are studying at college and have a part-time job or access to a work placement
- You can also take an NVQ qualification at level 2 or 3 as part of an Apprenticeship.
- In some cases you can also do an NVQ if you are at school.
How you are assessed
NVQs are assessed on practical assignments and a portfolio of evidence. Normally, a qualified assessor will observe you and question you about the real work you carry out in the workplace (or a realistic working environment). They will test your knowledge and understanding as well as your actual performance. Your assessor will 'sign-off' individual units within the NVQ when you have reached the required standard.
