Deciding your next education or career move can be challenging. Do you want to study an academic or practical course? Go to university, or learn on the job? See what NVQ qualifications give you.
We’re aiming to take the mystery out of making these choices. In this series, we’ve broken down the specifics of some of the different kinds of qualifications you can take. They will help you weigh up the pros and cons, and decide which path suits you the best.
In this article, we’re taking a deep dive into NVQs.
What is an NVQ?
NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification. An NVQ is a type of qualification that you can study in the UK and they are designed to prepare you for a specific job. NVQs don’t have a specific timeframe attached to them, though a Level 1-3 NVQ takes most people about a year.
How do NVQs differ from other qualifications?
NVQs are work-based qualifications. They are usually delivered in the workplace via on-the-job training. You can also study for an NVQ if you are at school or college and have a part-time job or access to a relevant work placement.
NVQs are actually five different levels of qualification. The level you take will depend on your prior experience and where you are in your work journey. Here are the levels and their approximate equivalent in traditional qualifications:
- Level 1: 3-4 GCSEs at grade D-G
- Level 2: 4-5 GCSEs at grade A*-C
- Level 3: 2 A Levels
- Level 4: Higher Education Certificate/BTEC
- Level 5: Higher Education Diploma/Foundation Degree
You don’t have to start at Level 1. You can also take a lower level and then upgrade to a higher level later on.
What kinds of subjects can I study?
NVQs are available in a huge range of industries and look slightly different in each sector. Here are a few common areas of work where you can study for an NVQ:
- Health and social care
- Business and management
- Engineering
- Construction
- Sales
- Hospitality and leisure
- Hairdressing and barbering
There are many, many more. This list is just designed to give you a flavour of the sheer variety of different NVQ possibilities on offer!
How much does an NVQ cost? Is there any support available?
Costs for NVQs vary. Different providers and institutions charge different amounts, and it depends on your industry.
In some cases, your workplace will pay to put you through an NVQ. This is because it benefits them to have more highly qualified employees, too. If you accept help from your employer, make sure you understand any conditions attached to it. For example, do they expect you to stick around for a certain amount of time after you’ve qualified (and if so, is there a contract binding you to honour this?)
In some industries, particularly those where there is a high demand for qualified staff, you might be able to get your NVQ for free. In certain circumstances, you might also be able to get government financial support to help you while you train.
What sort of person should do NVQs?
NVQs are ideal for those who want to train and gain a qualification at the same time. They are great for people who have a clear idea of what career they want to do. If you’re a practical and hands-on person who thrives on learning by doing, then NVQs will be a good fit for your learning style.
Because you’ll be learning on the job, you’ll also be able to earn a wage while you train.
What are the entry requirements?
NVQs have no age limit and no specific requirements. As long as you are employed in a relevant sector or enrolled at college with either a part time job or access to a placement (paid or voluntary,) you can study for an NVQ.
If you’re doing an apprenticeship, you might be able to take an NVQ Level 2 or Level 3 as part of that programme.
