In this section...
- QCF and Vocational Qualification Reform
- NVQs and SVQs in this section
- Approvals
- Processing Apprenticeships for the CWDC
- Foundation Degrees
- Development Awards
- Diploma in Probation Studies
- 14-19 Diplomas
- Sector Qualifications Strategy
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Functional Skills
- Qualification Consultations
NVQs and SVQs
What are NVQs/SVQs?
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) are vocational qualifications in which learners study to achieve a meaningful qualification that reflect a role. Upon achievement the learner can claim not only to have achieved the knowledge and understanding required but also to have demonstrated workplace competence.
Benchmarks of good practice
NVQs/SVQs are recognised as benchmarks of good practice in all types of work in the UK. More than 2,500,000 people now have an NVQ/SVQ to prove their ability to work to nationally agreed standards in their profession. Many employers look for this kind of evidence when recruiting new staff, or seeking to fill posts through internal promotion.
Methods of assessing competency
NVQs/SVQs are methods of assessing the competency of and giving recognition to people who have been trained up to the National Occupational Standards (NOS)| for their job. By grouping NOS units together, the range of knowledge, skills and performance needed for a particular job can be specified. Often that group of NOS units can be used to achieve an NVQ/SVQ. A learner has to show an assessor they can carry out all activities covered by the units to the standard described.
What levels are they available at?
NVQs/SVQs are available at 5 levels, ranging from Level 1 for simple, routine activities, to Level 5 for substantial professional or managerial responsibilities. We have developed a number of NVQs/SVQs at Levels 2 to 5 which are awarded by bodies such as City & Guilds, Edexcel, Open University, SQA and OCR.
Read a case study of NVQs in action|
