background image
For more details on courses please telephone 707328
11
Vocational Courses
In December 2010, National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ's) ceased to exist and were replaced
with Qualification and Credit Framework Vocational Awards (VQ's).
Vocational Qualifications (VQ's) are work-based qualifications that assess the skills and knowledge
people need to perform their job role effectively.
The qualifications are based on the National Occupational Standards (NOS), which define what
employees must be able to do and know, and how well they undertake work tasks and work roles.
These standards are defined by the Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) and National Training Organisations
(NTOs) for health and social care, which is made up of representatives from the health and social
care sector.
Each VQ is designed to fit into the Qualifications Credit Framework (QCF) which allows for the
comparison of different qualifications in the UK and throughout Europe.
Who are these qualifications for?
Unless otherwise stated, these qualifications are for all learners aged 16 and above who are
capable of reaching the required standards. Edexcel's policy is that the qualifications should
be free from any barriers that restrict access and progression and ensure equality of
opportunity for all wishing to access the qualifications.
The Institute Vocational Qualification Centre
The VQ Centre at the Institute was inspected
several times during 2013 by Quality Assurance
personnel from the Centres Awarding Body, Edexcel.
The reports from all visits were positive and
demonstrated the success of the Centre.
Of particular note was; the support provided to learners, sound team work headed by
informed management, openness to change and review, an impressive array of teaching
and learning accommodation and equipment, a quality ethos and professional and
enthusiastic staff.
As a result of these successful inspections, the VQ Centre is approved to provide direct
certification for all of the following awards.
For more information contact the VQ Office on 707328.