NVQs

An NVQ is a "National Vocational Qualification". It is a competence-based qualification: A qualification which is work related that reflects the skills, knowledge, understanding and competence in respect to a specific area. NVQs are based on national standards for various occupations. All qualifications fall into the new qualification framework where the name NVQ is not the prominent feature and in some cases ie. retail it is not included in the qualification name. The format of the NVQ qualification is still available but it may be disguised under the qualification breakdown or award/certificate/diploma. Examples are shown below in the list of courses that are competence based (ie. NVQ). The standards say what a competent person in a job could be expected to do. As you progress through the course, you compare your skills and knowledge with these standards as you learn, so you can see what you need to do to meet them.
Taking an NVQ could be appropriate if you already have skills and want to improve them, or if you are starting from scratch.
NVQs are at levels one to five on the National Qualifications Framework. The framework shows how different types of qualifications compare, in terms of the demands they place on learners.

Remember, if you want to do an NVQ level two or three, or you are an employer who wants their workforce to take NVQs at level two or three, the courses may be available at no cost to you under the Train to Gain initiative.

NVQs are available to adults and young people alike. You can take NVQs if:

you are employed
you are studying at college and have a part-time job or access to a work placement

East Riding College runs NVQ courses in the following subjects. Click on the subject areas below to jump to the NVQs available.

Business and Administration	Hair and Beauty
Construction	Management
Early Years and Health and Social Care	Retail Skills
Engineering	Training and Development
Hospitality and Catering