Learning In Sunderland

Vocational qualifications measure your ability to do a particular job. They are based on your performance in the workplace.

Find an NVQ to suit you

Definition: NVQs are work-related, competence based qualifications NVQs reflect the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively NVQs represent national standards recognised by employers throughout the country If you have a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) it shows that you can do the work for which it has been awarded to national standards. It means you are competent in this kind of work. NVQs are qualifications for work and show you can actually do a job, and not simply that you know how to do it in theory. They are made up of units which describe the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively.

Levels Definitions

Level 1
Competence which involves the application of knowledge in the performance of a range of varied work activities, most of which may be routine and predictable.

Level 2
Competence which involves the application of knowledge in a significant range of varied work activities, performed in a variety of contexts. Some of these activities are complex or non-routine and there is some individual responsibility or autonomy. Collaboration with others, perhaps through membership of a work group or team, may often be a requirement.

Level 3
Competence's which involves the application of knowledge in a broad range of varied work activities performed in a wide variety of contexts, most of which are complex and non-routine. There is considerable responsibility and autonomy and control or guidance of others is often required.

Level 4
Competence which involves the application of knowledge in a broad range of complex, technical or professional work activities performed in a variety of contexts and with a substantial degree of personal responsibility and autonomy. Responsibility for the work of others and the allocation of resources is often present.

Level 5
Competence which involves the application of a range of fundamental principles across a wide and often unpredictable variety of contexts. Very substantial personal autonomy and often significant responsibility for the work of others and for the allocation of substantial resources features strongly, as do personal accountabilities for analysis, diagnosis, design, planning, execution and evaluation.

City and Guilds
City and Guilds also offer vocational qualifications. There are more than 400 subjects to choose from and they include NVQs, modern apprenticeships and key skills, as well as City and Guilds. Find out more at the City and Guilds website.
Find out about City and Guilds qualifications