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The future of NVQs

In order to achieve simplicity, flexibility and meet the needs of employers and learners the QCF is a new regulated unit- and credit-based qualifications framework which has a single set of regulatory arrangements for all qualifications. There are therefore no separate types of qualifications on the QCF and it does not include NVQs as such. However we know that in some sectors NVQs are well-recognised and valued qualifications. The regulatory arrangements therefore allow for qualifications to continue to be described as NVQs and awarding bodies and SSCs can continue to use the NVQ brand where desired.

The QCF is a new regulated qualifications framework and is completely different to the NQF. All QCF qualifications will be built up from units which carry credit for learners and, to ensure clarity, the QCF has a rational titling structure, with the title of each QCF qualification and unit containing information about the level (i.e. from entry level to levels 1-8), size (indicated by their credit value based on learning time) and content.

The requirements for QCF qualifications are set out in the Regulatory Arrangements for the QCF. These Regulatory Arrangements were published by Ofqual in August 2008 and are available at http://www.ofqual.gov.uk/files/Regulatory_arrangements_QCF_August08.pdf Only those qualifications which comply with these regulatory arrangements will go on to the QCF. NVQs will not comply with these arrangements and therefore cannot simply be transferred from the NQF to the QCF.

The QCF’s Regulatory Arrangements provide that the term 'NVQ' may be used as a bracketed addition to a QCF qualification title for certain occupational qualifications, subject to it meeting the requirements specified in a set of Operating Rules for using the term NVQ in this way. These operating rules were published in August 2008 alongside the Regulatory Arrangements for the QCF and are available at http://www.ofqual.gov.uk/files/Operating_rules_for_using_the_term_NVQ_in_a_QCF_qualification_title_28-08-08.pdf.

These rules state that the qualification must:

  • Be based entirely and only on national occupational standards (NOS)
  • Attest to competence (defined as the ability to carry out activities to the standards required) in an occupational role
  • Apply any requirements specified by a relevant SSC or SSB about the way in which units are assessed and apply any rules of combination they specify
  • Be made up entirely of shared units
  • Specify 'Confirm occupational competence and/or licence to practise' as its main qualification purpose.