NVQs to remain at centre of construction sector’s qualification structure

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) will remain at the heart of the construction industry’s qualification structure, following heated lobbying by ConstructionSkills, its Sector Skills Council (SSC).

The government’s new Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) looked set to abolish NVQs this year. The Office of Qualifications (Ofqual) had signalled plans to scrap the title altogether to make way for the new scheme.

However, ConstructionSkills, together with partner SSCs, successfully argued that the majority of construction companies with experience of NVQs are happy with the current structure. Registrations and certifications for the industry standard qualifications are also at an all time high.

“We have fought to save NVQs as they are an essential part of the construction training infrastructure,” says Nick Gooderson, head of standards and qualifications at ConstructionSkills.

“They underpin the industry’s drive to qualify the workforce and are a vital requisite for workers to gain professional accreditation.”

Construction NVQs will now be converted in almost every area to match the QCF, which gives every unit and qualification a credit value. From September 2010, new qualifications achieved by workers in construction will be called NVQ Diplomas.

Mr Gooderson adds: “Removing the NVQ as a qualification in its own right would have been unacceptable for industry, leading to widespread confusion amongst employers, as well as increased bureaucracy in communicating the significant changes at a time when every business is striving cut down on costs.

“Employers have been supporting us in leading the fight to save the qualifications. I am extremely pleased that we have achieved this feat, and look forward to working with Ofqual to maintain the high standards the NVQ has produced, as well as the professional regard and endorsement of them from the people that matter the most; the employers.”

Jason Rainbow