NVQs are based on national occupational standards. The standards describe the level and breadth of performance that is expected of anyone working in the industry or sector which the NVQ covers.

NVQs are delivered for University staff by Leicester College. The most popular of these are Business & Administration and Customer Service.

If you are interested in any NVQ contact Helen Robinson in the Staff Development Centre (see contact details below).

How do I achieve an NVQ? To achieve an NVQ you must prove that you have the skills, knowledge and understanding detailed in the NVQ units of competence. Your assessor will judge, from your evidence, whether you have demonstrated the skills, knowledge and understanding to the necessary standard. You do not have to pass a written exam or have any previous qualifications to be able to take an NVQ.

The nature of an NVQ means that most of the evidence will be gathered through a candidate's own work or by assessor observation, however, candidates will have to do a reasonable amount of work outside of normal working hours. An NVQ's is a portfolio assessment based against nationally agreed standards.

Who will be my assessor? Leicester College will allocate a qualified assessor to you. Your assessor will carry out assessments in your workplace. Your assessor will also act as your advisor and will meet with you on a regular basis.

How will I know which NVQ to work towards? Your assessor will carry out an initial assessment of your past experience, current skills, knowledge and understanding and look at your real work situation and job role before agreeing with you that this qualification is suitable for you.

What support will I have? Your assessor will also act as an advisor to guide you through your qualification. .

Contact Us: If you are a University of Leicester member of staff and would like to find out more about NVQ's, please contact:

Helen Robinson in the Staff Development Centre