National vocational qualifications (NVQs) are work-related, competence-based qualifications assessed in the workplace. They are based on national occupational standards (NOS).
Most NVQs consist of mandatory and optional units. Mandatory units cover functions relevant to all roles supported by the underpinning NOS. The choice of optional units allows staff to select those most relevant to their work and any specialism.
National vocational qualifications are developed by the sector skills council or sector body responsible for the underpinning NOS. There are NVQs available for most occupational areas. The career development framework or the national database of qualifications can help you identify NVQs related to roles in schools.
The TDA is responsible for the structure of NVQs in supporting teaching and learning in schools. These replaced the NVQs for teaching assistants in 2008.
