Focus on Careers Learning Resources - National Qualifications Framework

We all agree that young people need to understand the options available to them, in order to make useful choices about their future. Currently, there are over 6,500 different qualifications available in the UK! Although reform is underway, currently, these qualifications can be described as:

• Academic (e.g. GCSEs, A Levels)
• Vocational (e.g. NVQ, National Diplomas, Apprenticeship Framework)
• A combination of academic and vocational (e.g. new Diplomas)

The purpose of this section is for students to gain an awareness of the types of qualifications available to them in schools, colleges, private training providers and universities, along with an understanding of the equivalence levels between these very different types of qualification. In the Routes to Higher Education section they will also explore where these qualifications can take them.

By 2010, the Qualification Reform Support Programme will have completed its work, which includes “the rationalisation of existing qualifications so that learners and employers can more easily identify the best vocational qualifications for their needs”. See www.qrsp.org.uk for further information.

Until that time, we are faced with a confusing and changing qualifications scene, which needs careful explanation. The National Qualifications Framework section of these Teaching Resources is a good starting point.

Before using this NQF section, please look at these links:

• Brief Overview of Current Qualifications
• Qualification Level Equivalences

Lesson plans and
accompanying resources

• NQF1 - National Qualifications Framework lesson plan 1
• NQF2 - National Qualifications Framework lesson plan 2
• NQF3 - National Qualifications Framework lesson plan 3

*All text-only versions will be available for download soon.