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 apply to all roles supported by the NOS for that role. Optional units let you select those that apply to your own role or specialism. Because NVQs are assessed in the workplace you will need to work with your line manager to make sure you can provide the right evidence for your chosen units.
The structure of an NVQ is developed by the sector skills council or sector body with responsibility for the NOS that underpin it. There are NVQs for most occupational areas; visit the career development framework or the national database of qualifications to find an NVQ related to your role.
NVQs are delivered by awarding bodies that design the qualification and offer it through approved training providers. To find a training provider, either visit the awarding body’s website or Learndirect. If you would like more information on NVQs, look at the career development guidance.
We are responsible for the structure of the NVQs in supporting teaching and learning in schools and the NVQs for teaching assistants that they replaced.
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