FAQs

Who are NVQs for?

Just about anyone and everyone. NVQs are about competence in the workplace. Any person wanting an NVQ Qualification must actually be doing the work to be able to be properly assessed for competence.

Where are NVQs undertaken?

NVQs can be undertaken in the workplace, in a college, or through a training provider. For lift, escalator, stairlift and lifting platforms all NVQs are undertaken in the workplace.

When do courses start?

There are no pre-set start dates, which means that a candidate can be registered at any time of the year. Individuals can start with one unit and progress at their own rate.

How long does it take to complete an NVQ?

There is no hard and fast guidance as it depends on the level of the qualification, exposure to the relevant work and the previous experience of the candidate. There are other variables too, such as the candidate’s commitment, recording of work (evidence) and the involvement of the company in planning the person’s programme. However as a rough guide, a new entrant to the industry who has completed their first year basic training will take approximately 2 to 3 years to complete a level 3 NVQ.

How do I start/register to do an NVQ?

Speak to your company training department or person responsible for training.

What is a portfolio?

A binder or book used to keep all evidence of the competencies that have been undertaken, it also contains information on the assessments, evidence routes and progress

How do I record entries into the portfolio?

Entries are evidence of the competencies in the evidence routes. Entries into the portfolio can be written, drawn, photographed, record of a procedure etc., the assessor will help in explaining what is acceptable.

What is a Pathway Unit?

A pathway unit is the awarding body document that specifies the range of equipment and competencies to be assessed. The pathway unit is usually converted into an assessment record by the assessor, which usually is a much easier document to use.

Is there a time limit?

No, however if the candidate is on the programme much longer than the estimated times stated above it would need to be questioned why? As a guide a person should not take longer than 4 to 5 years. Also certification must be achieved while the qualification is current with the awarding body.

Are there any entry requirements?

No, but your company may have criteria or a policy on availability of NVQ programmes to employees.

What do I get at the end of the NVQ programme?

Certificates detailing the level of qualification and a list of the units verified. LEIA will be shown as the assessment centre, this is important as it signifies the industry in which the qualification was gained.

Is the qualification transferable?

Yes, within the industry.

Is there a central place where my qualification is recorded should I lose my certificate?

Yes, both at the awarding body (EAL) and at LEIA.

We are a company that has limited training resources, how can we progress?

Contact LEIA, a list of training providers registered as assessors and internal verifiers can be supplied. The assessment can be carried out by an arrangement between the company and a training provider.

Do I have to do a level 2 NVQ before a level 3 NVQ?

No, there is no pre-requisite at any level of NVQ. The levels reflect the skills needed to achieve the job.

Can a company appoint an employee as an own assessor?

Yes, but they must have the skills they will be assessing, and will need to undertake some training. Contact LEIA for more information.

Can a company appoint an employee as an own internal verifier?

Yes, to be an internal verifier the person will need to undertake some training. Contact LEIA for more information.

When do courses start?

There are no pre-set start dates, which means that a candidate can be registered at any time of the year. Individuals can start with one unit and progress at their own rate. NVQs are assessed by performance in the workplace rather than relying totally on knowledge learnt for an examination. The emphasis is on the ability to do the job in the time and to the standards of quality expected by the company. Standards are maintained by continual assessment, this means that candidates undergoing an NVQ can expect to see their assessor on a regular basis.