What are NVQ Courses?

NVQ FAQs

Looking for a straightforward qualification to get your dream job?  Want to gain new skills without the stress of countless written exams?  If you fancy gaining plenty of practical experience to help you forge a career in a particular industry, then an NVQ course could be for you.

NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification and is an industry recognised qualification that gives you practical skills and knowledge to be able to work in a specific profession.  Does this sound relevant to you and your career goals?  If so, read our NVQ FAQs below to learn more about this option and if it fits your future plans.

How is an NVQ course structured?

A typical NVQ course is split into many units, which are separately assessed and signed off when completed.  Each unit will test a different element of work in that particular industry, requiring students to demonstrate certain skills and knowledge in order to pass.

Who takes NVQ qualifications?

NVQs are open to people of all ages, and many entry-level courses are studied by those still in full-time education.  Traditionally, entry-level NVQs are offered to students who may academically struggle to achieve good GCSEs, while many school-leavers go on to take higher-level NVQs as part of apprenticeship programmes.  This doesn’t mean NVQs are only suitable for those still in education; many mature students use NVQs as a career stepping stone or to gain a new qualification to help their job prospects.

What is an NVQ qualification?

Each NVQ level has its own place within the education classification system, ranging from entry-level to level 8, with the higher levels offering a higher academic qualification.  Don’t worry — it’s not as complex as it sounds.  An NVQ level 2 qualification is the equivalent of getting five A*-C GCSEs, while a level 3 NVQ is worth the same as two A-Levels.  The higher levels are comparable to different stages of university study, and they usually take more time and work to complete than other levels. 

What subjects can I study?

There is a wide variety of topics you can study to help you pursue your desired career.  From NVQ hairdressing to NVQ health & social care, you’ll be able to find a course at a level to fit your needs.  There are over 1,000 different programmes available to choose from across dozens of different industries.

How will I be assessed?

In most NVQ programmes, you’ll generally be expected to build up a portfolio of work you’ve completed during the course, which will then be assessed by your mentor or teacher.  Your total mark will include that portfolio, along with an assessor’s evaluation of your task performance and ability to work in the field. 

What prior qualifications do I need to have?

The qualifications you need to enrol on a course depend on which NVQ level you’re planning to study.  For those taking entry-level NVQs, there likely won’t be any specific qualifications requirements for enrolment.  However, the college may ask you to take an entry test to show that you’re competent in Maths and English.

How are NVQs accredited?

Many courses include industry governing body qualifications as part of their syllabus.  These are overseen by a separate organisation called the National Occupational Standards, which takes advice from different sectors to ensure that courses fully prepare students for a career in the industry they choose. 

Once I have an NVQ qualification, do I have to study the same subject in the future?

Generally, most programmes allow you to switch subjects as you progress through the levels of qualifications.  This means that you are able to gain vocational qualifications in several different subjects.  So, whether you have a level 2 NVQ qualification in IT or have passed your GCSEs, the majority of courses will enrol you on a level 3 programme of any subject, increasing your versatility when applying for jobs.  However, this isn’t always the case, so it’s worth checking the entry requirements of the course you’re interested in first.

How long does it take to complete?

NVQs offer flexible schedules to complete the course, allowing students to work at a more relaxed pace compared to other qualifications.  However, the length of the programme does vary depending on the level you’re planning to study; NVQ courses can take a few months to over three years to finish.  Most programmes allow you the option of either studying full-time or part-time, while a distance NVQ enables you to complete your qualification at any location and time that suits you.

Can I study NVQs in Scotland?

There are a very limited number of NVQ programmes available north of the border since Scotland has their own variation of vocational programmes called SVQs.  The Scottish vocational qualifications have very similar structures and are worth the same classifications as the NVQs, but are only taught in Scotland.

What happens when you’ve finished?

After completing an NVQ course, you can either use your newly gained skills and knowledge to enter your chosen industry or continue to the next level of study to further enhance your qualifications.  Whatever path you decide to pursue after you finish the programme, your new course will provide you with plenty of positive traits to highlight on your CV and the tools you need to succeed in your future career.