Increasing the value of qualifications
A key aim of the VQ reforms is to give employers greater confidence in the value of vocational qualifications in enhancing their competitiveness, helping to make learners’ achievements more highly respected and valued by employers
Increasing flexibility
Learners have greater flexibility in:
- what they study because they can choose between optional units.
- when they study and the pace of study. Learners can study units at a pace and time which suits them to build up a training portfolio with no learning ever lost
Clear learner record
Learners’ credits for each completed unit are captured on a learner record, helping learners to demonstrate to anyone - such as an employer or college - what they have already achieved and ensure they do not have to repeat any study. Learner records also make it easier for learners to see the qualifications that can be built up from the units they have already completed.
Easier to understand
The QCF has clear titles showing a qualification’s level content and size in terms of number of credits (from award to certificate to diploma). After finding the right title, it will be easier to see the options best suited to the individual learner.
Enhance further opportunities
It is easier for learners to see the further qualifications they can take - right up to PhD level. It will also be much easier for vocational qualifications to be accepted by universities and other Higher Education institutions, so learners may go on to study for a degree or other higher qualification.
Further Information
Information on qualifications can be found on the National Database of Accredited Qualifications
Advice on existing courses and general information about studying for vocational qualifications is available at:
