NVQs/VQs - Level 4 and above
National Vocational Qualifications/Vocational Qualifications (NVQs/VQs) are practical qualifications that show you can do a specific job
They are:
- usually taken by people in work
- offered in, for example: social care, retail, motor vehicle work, electrical installation, business administration, hairdressing, leisure and recreation, construction, engineering and childcare
- equivalent to the first year of a degree.
Entry qualifications vary. You may:
- have to take an entry or selection test
- need a level 3 or equivalent qualification to do a lor level 4 course.
Higher apprenticeships involve doing a Level 4 NVQ and are usually studied by apprentices who have completed their level 3 NVQ or students who have passed A levels and want an alternative to university.
Assessment is through practical tests and a range of evidence, which show you can complete tasks well.
Look on GOV.UK for what different qualification levels mean