Contacts:

NVQ Manager Kim Kennedy Tel: 01438 844001 Email: kim.kennedy @hertscc.co.uk NVQ Co-ordinator Louise Kingham Tel: 01438 843066 Email: louise.kingham @hertscc.co.uk

NVQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What will I gain from an NVQ?

A: An up-to-date recognised qualification based on your competence in the workplace.

Q: Will I need to take time out from my school/organisation on a regular basis?

A: No, the only time you will need to be absent from your place of work is when you attend a day or half day start session at Hertfordshire Development Centre. At this point you will be assigned to an assessor who will visit you in your place of work to advise and support you throughout the qualification at a time convenient to you.

Q: What do levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 equate to by today’s standards of accreditation?

A:

• Level 1 is equivalent to 2 GCSE’s
• Level 2 is equivalent to 4 GCSE’s
• Level 3 is equivalent to 2 A Levels
• Level 4 is equivalent to just below a degree

Q: How long does it take to complete an NVQ?

A: The registration time for each qualification differs but the majority of qualifications are registered for a period of with 2-5 years depending on the award undertaken. The individual will need to complete the qualification during the registration period. The majority of people normally complete within 18 months – 2 years.

Q: How much will it cost?

A: This is dependent on the qualification but the costs can be reduced by using in-house assessment, which is why some schools/organisations may wish to use their own in-house assessors.

Q: Here are some quotes from individuals who have completed an NVQ. They were asked: How do you feel your NVQ has helped you in your work?

A:

• "By building confidence and strengthening my underpinning knowledge."
• "Made me reassess and re-evaluate my job and the routine functions I perform and whether the procedures were efficient, effective and worthwhile."
• "It has given me further insight into several aspects of my work and my organisation. I have learned a lot after completing each module."
• "It has made me more aware of what I am doing and more organised in how I work."