Please find a selection of answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive.   

What are NVQs?   

NVQs are National Vocational Qualifications which prove you are capable of doing a job rather than stating you can do it theoretically.


They provide official recognition of your skills and experience and to draw comparison to differing NVQ levels, they are the equivalent of GCSEs, A Levels and Degrees’, the amount of knowledge, work performed and experience required determines the level you would enter into.  


NVQs are a progression path designed to suit your role ensuring you become expert in your chosen field and therefore contributing to the future of British Manufacturing.


NVQs are organised into 5 categories from level one to five. Level one covers basic work activities and level five covers professional and senior management roles.


An NVQ level two will generally consist of 6 units and level 3 will generally consist of 9 units with some exceptions


How are they achieved?

You will receive advice and guidance based around your NVQ, detailing what you will be doing and how that will be done, the qualification is designed to fit in with your daily job so by working your normal job role, you achieve recognition for that.  You will have the opportunity to air any thoughts you will have.

Enrolment   

You will complete enrolment paperwork in order to be registered for the NVQ with the awarding body.  This paperwork will discuss your specific requirements around the qualification.


Assessment plan

This plans what will happen and when and with the help of your assessor, you confirm your individual assessment plan to encompass all aspects of your personal, work-based and NVQ development.


Assessment

Your assessment will be mostly undertaken using on-the-job observation, with a blend of oral and written questions relating to the tools and equipment you use, your reporting lines, health and safety and the process you follow.


Duration

Generally the NVQ criteria at level 2 is achieved between 3-6 months depending upon experience and qualification undertaken


After the assessment

With your assessor you will look at what you have achieved, how much you need to do and how you should go about it. Each assessment is structured this way until completion.


Certification

Once you have achieved the requirements, your NVQ certificate is requested from the awarding body and distributed to you.


Who is the awarding body?

An awarding body governs the quality of NVQ delivery and distributes certificates upon completion. 
 
They have strict guidelines for training providers to follow and regularly audit all of our systems, processes, procedures and methods of delivery.

Your awarding body is called Emta Awards Ltd (EAL) and they award over 70% of all NVQs in the manufacturing and logistics industry.  

A familiar awarding body to you may be City and Guilds, EAL are exactly the same however hold the expertise within the manufacturing industry.

What are the benefits?

1.    NVQs prove you have up-to-date skills sought by employers and you can do the job competently, based on national standards. They help you prepare for work and assist with career development.

2.    They are rewarding because you can put your learning and skills into practice whilst at work, and there are no exams.

3.    They are flexible and accessible and blend in with your normal role.

4.    Most people who take them believe they directly enhance the quality of their work and their overall productivity and some subsequently take on increased responsibility or gain a promotion.

5.    The NVQ will really make you think about why you do things and how that is done in order to achieve best results.

What topics might I cover?  

Here is a sample list of topics you may cover:

•    Health and Safety
•    Team-working
•    Tools and equipment
•    Communication methods
•    Lean Manufacturing
•    Problem Solving
•    Data Analysis