FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q. What is an NVQ?
A. An NVQ is a qualification- a National Vocational
Qualification - that affirms the candidate’s ability and skills in their area of work. Candidates are assessed against national occupational standards to monitor and applaud their competence in their work role.

Q. What are National Occupational Standards (NOS)
A. National Occupational Standards are agreed standards of performance across areas of work. They describe performance in terms of outcomes - what is to be achieved, rather than what is to be done. National Occupational Standards can be used by managers to develop job descriptions, recruit staff, supervise and appraise performance and for planning staff development including the attainment of National Vocational Qualifications.

Q. Why work towards an NVQ?
A. Candidates who undertake an NVQ will have the opportunity to have their abilities and skills assessed. NVQs are increasingly being used as criteria for job selection. NVQs are a positive affirmation of competent practice.

Q. Why would Agencies support staff working towards an NVQ?
Agencies that are striving to gain recognition for providing a supportive programme of staff development can use NVQ attainment as evidence of their committment to investment in their people. NVQs can assist the supervision and appraisal processes and can enable managers to assess and support staff from an objective set of occupational standards that define competent practice.

Q. What about funding?
A. The Northern Ireland Office provides funding for a number of candidates undertaking NVQs within the Regional Assessment Centre for Justice Sector Awards. Contact AM Communication.

Q. How do candidates register for an NVQ Award?
A. Agencies with staff seeking to undertake an NVQ should Contact AM Communication where we will discuss the NVQ process.

Q. Do I have to go to college?
A. It is not necessary to go to college. In this centre candidates are assessed on the work practice and the knowledge that informs their work. NVQs do not prescribe where skills and knowledge originate, rather competence is assessed through performance. Some candidates will have all the knowledge required to attain their Award from their experience and participation in previous training programmes. For other candidates an update in knowledge may be required. However knowledge may be secured from a range of sources and the RACJSA will discuss with candidates and employers the options available.

Q. What kind of work do I need to be doing?
A. NVQ Candidates must be working in the Community or Youth Justice Sectors with opportunities to provide evidence of their work in practice. Candidates may be paid or in a volunteer capacity, however assessment of competence is based upon 'real work' situations.

Q. Can I just complete some units or do I have to complete a whole Award?
A. Candidates may register for a complete Award - ten Units of competence are assessed for Level 3 - or may register for individual Units, reflecting areas of specialism in their work role.

Q. How long does it take?
A. Candidates are supported by the Assessment Centre for twelve months. Candidates must be in their work role for a minimum of six months prior to registration.