NVQs here to stay

26-03-2010

The Government has backed down on its plans to scrap NVQs from the construction industry’s qualification structure, following intense lobbying by ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council for the construction industry, and other bodies. The news follows recent research which reveals that more than 80% of construction companies with experience of NVQs are happy with the current structure.

There will be a slight change of name, to NVQ Diploma, within the new Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) and, as part of the QCF, every unit and qualification will have a credit value (one credit represents 10 hours, showing how much time it takes to complete) and a level between Entry level and level 8.

There are three sizes of qualifications in the QCF: Awards (one to 12 credits), Certificates (13 to 36 credits) and Diplomas (37 credits or more). In almost every area, construction NVQs have been converted successfully to match this new structure.

"We have fought to save NVQs as they are an essential part of the construction training infrastructure," said Nick Gooderson, head of Standards and Qualifications at ConstructionSkills. "They underpin the industry's drive to qualify the workforce and are a vital requisite for workers to gain professional accreditation.

"Removing the NVQ as a qualification in its own right would have been unacceptable for industry, leading to widespread confusion among employers, as well as increased bureaucracy in communicating the significant changes at a time when every business is striving cut down on costs.

"Employers have been supporting us in leading the fight to save the qualifications. I am extremely pleased we have achieved this feat, and look forward to working with Ofqual to maintain the high standards the NVQ has produced, as well as the professional regard and endorsement of them from the people that matter the most; the employers."