NVQs are available to anybody who can demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a working environment.

Timescales

NVQs are not time-bound it will take a learner as long as they need to achieve the skills levels required. However, some training organisations do structure NVQs in a course format typically one year full-time or two years on a part-time basis. Entry time for training organisations vary with colleges usually offering September and sometimes January starts and independent providers offering all year round access. Check with the training organisations themselves for full details.

Commitments

Employers need to take the time and care to support their learner and ensure that enough time is allowed for both the learner and supervisory staff to carry out training and assessment. Assessment is usually carried out by a visiting assessor but it is also possible to train a member of staff to carry out the assessment.

Costs

Costs vary according to the training organisation, occupation, level and delivery method chosen.

Links

Further information on NVQs is available on the following sites:
Aim Higher: www.aimhigher.ac.uk/student_info/nvq.cfm

Qualification and Curriculum Authority
www.qca.org.uk/14-19/qualifications/index_nvqs.htm

Edexcel www.edexcel.org.uk/studying/work/faq/nvq/

Progression Routes

NVQs provide a very structured progression route from Level 1 to Level 4. At each level the skills learnt allow for young person to do more of the key roles required for an occupation with a greater degree of autonomy. Level 2 is regarded by most as the qualification required for entry into the work place.