What is an NVQ
NVQ stands for national vocational qualification and are work-related qualifications; they are available in more than 1,000 subjects across a wide range of business sectors, including business and management, construction, manufacturing and healthcare. An NVQ at Level 3 is roughly equivalent to two A levels. Most people complete a Level 3 NVQ in one year.
How long do they take?
- NVQs don't have to be completed in a specific amount of time, but most people find it takes about a year to complete an NVQ Level 1, 2, or 3.
- They can be taken by full-time employees or by school and college students who have a work placement or part-time job that enables them to develop the appropriate skills.
Parent and Carer Information
Are they right for your child?
- NVQs are assessed by testing students’ skills in the workplace, so if your child knows what career they’d like to go into and prefers a practical learning style, NVQs could be for them.
- Many universities do not accept NVQs in their own right for entry to degree courses; some accept them alongside A levels or other Level 3 qualifications. If your child wants to leave their options open, they should check the entry requirements of universities and courses that interest them.
- For some NVQ courses, applicants already need to be in a relevant job, so make sure your child checks course requirements carefully.
How am I assessed?
How are they studied?
NVQs can be based in a college, school, or workplace.
- They're a good choice if you know what job you'd like to do.
- There are five NVQ levels, so you can start at a level that suits you and work your way up.
- There are no age limits and no special entry requirements, although you might need to complete a Level 2 NVQ before starting a Level 3 programme.
How are they assessed?
NVQs test your abilities in the workplace. You'll complete training and the following assessment to prove you can do certain work-related tasks:
- Portfolio assessment – where you build up evidence of what you've done at work.
- Observation – where an assessor watches you work and checks that you can do the required tasks.
The levels you'll be expected to reach are based on national standards for the particular job you want to do. Assessors sign off units when you've met these standards.
