What are NVQs?

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are work-related, competence-based qualifications.
They reflect the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively, and show that a candidate is competent in the area of work the NVQ represents.

NVQs are based on national occupational standards. These standards are statements of performance that describe what competent people in a particular occupation are expected to be able to do. They cover all the main aspects of an occupation, including current best practice, the ability to adapt to future requirements and the knowledge and understanding that underpin competent performance.

NVQs are achieved through assessment and training. Assessment is normally through on-thejob observation and questioning. Candidates produce evidence to prove they have the competence to meet the NVQ standards. Assessors ‘sign-off’ units when the candidates are ready - the assessor tests candidates’ underpinning knowledge, understanding and workbased performance to make sure they can demonstrate competence in the workplace.