Frequently Asked Questions
What is an NVQ?
NVQs are achieved through assessment and training. Assessment will normally be through on-the-job observation and questioning. Candidates build a portfolio of evidence to prove they have the competence to meet the NVQ standards. Assessors sign-off units when achieved - they check Learners knowledge, understanding and work-based performance to make sure they can demonstrate competence in the workplace.
How are NVQs Achieved?
NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification. This is a qualification that is recognised by employers across the country. Its focus is on the workplace and shows that you have the skill, ability and knowledge to do the job to industry standards. Modules of the NVQ are completed through portfolio work and practical assessment in the workplace.
What are Basic Skills?
Basic Skills can be defined as ‘the ability to read, write and speak in English and use mathematics at a level necessary to function and progress at work and in society in general’ (Basic Skills Agency, 1997). About one in five of the workforce have a poor grasp of these skills.
What are Awarding Bodies?
The awarding bodies were originally known as examination boards. They approve assessment centres and send out external verifiers to ensure that all Learners are assessed fairly and consistently. They award certificates for units achieved and for full qualifications.
What are D32/33 or A1/A2 units?
These are the Qualifications that are required to be a fully trained NVQ Assessor. The D32/D33 has now been replaced with the A1 and A2 qualifications.
What are Apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships provide work-based learning to enable people of any age to learn on the building skills and gain qualifications whilst working. They normally last between one and three years, leading to recognised qualifications. Apprenticeships are not a single qualification, they are a package of several qualifications that allow the apprentice to build their skills and knowledge at work as well as their understanding of communication and application of number skills. An Apprenticeship consists of a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), Technical Certificate & Key Skills. For further information go to our Apprenticeship pages or check out the Learning & Skills Council information website dedicated to Apprenticeships http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk
How Long Does An Apprenticeship Take?
An Apprenticeship will usually take anything from 12 to 24 months but there is no set time to complete an Apprenticeship as they vary widely in content and size. One of our Training Managers will agree with you an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) and the length of time agreed will depend on your own experience in the job and your employer’s requirements.
What are Key Skills?
Key Skills are the types of skills that employers look for when recruiting and promoting people. They are also important in your personal life. Key Skills Units include Application of Number, Communication and Information Technology. Qualifications can be obtained in these key skills. Key skills can be taken at any level regardless of age or experience.
What is a Technical Certificate?
A Technical Certificate is q knowledge based qualification that is specific to the job that you are doing and aimed at the level at which you are currently working. There is a Level 2 or a Level 3 Technical certificate for most vocations apart form Accounting as this includes knowledge examinations as pert of the NVQ.
What certificates will I get when I have finished?
If you complete everything you will receive: Apprenticeship Completion Certificate, National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Certificates, Key Skills Certificates & Technical Certificate.
All adding up to a nationally recognised qualification that will kick-start or further your current career. It will boost your earnings potential and will demonstrate to employers your dedication, knowledge and competence.
How do I know if funding is available?
Many of our learning programmes are supported by funding form the Learning & Skills Council (LSC), click here for more information.
How will I know what qualification is suitable for me?
If you're unsure about exactly what type of qualification you should take one of our Training Managers will help you decide. They will give you advice and guidance to help you to access the right course for you and together you'll complete a Personal Learning Plan.
What does Work Based Learning mean?
Usually this means that the assessor comes to you in your place of work and helps you to put together your portfolio of evidence to prove your competence in your job. Your assess will observe you in your own working environment and at a time that suits you and your employer.
How do I find out more about the training you offer?
That is easy. Simply call our general enquiry number 01752 505020 or Contact us via this website