MPQC Work Plan Update
In an effort to keep all Approved Centres up to date with QCF and where we are on the introduction of these new qualifications, the following is the current position:
• The vast majority of all the sector specific QCF units have now been uploaded (banked) on the web-based accreditation system; although these still need to be submitted.
• MPQC are currently now uploading the Rules of Combination i.e. qualification structure for each of the new qualifications and this work should be completed by the end of the second week in July.
• Draft assessment record system has been completed for sector specific qualifications (i.e. Proskills owned National Occupational Standards)
• Work will commence of specific assessment guidance for each qualification mid July
• Plant Operations (Extractives) QCF – industry consultation to be undertaken
NB: IMPORTANT - The QCF templates attached here have yet to be proofed and finalised and some of the titles, dates and credit values referred to may be altered and therefore these are for information only to provide some initial view of the final qualification structure and content.
QCF & what does this mean for Approved Centres?
QCF (Qualifications and Credit Framework) has been widely publicised as a major step change for the whole of the qualifications arena. But the reality is that the biggest impact of the introduction of the new QCF qualifications will be for the Regulatory Bodies and the Awarding Organisations. As for Approved Centres will be, for the most part, very similar as candidates will continue to register for full qualifications as they have always generally done before.
So, what’s the difference then?
The new QCF qualifications will include new information on:
• Guided Learning Hours (GLHs)
• Credit Values for each individual unit
• Different titling to make it transparent to everyone the size of the qualification
QCF, does it apply across all regions?
The new QCF qualifications apply only to England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Scotland has its own Scottish Credit & Qualifications Framework [SCQF] with different levels. Consequently, the transfer of credit from QCF to SCQF is not automatic.
QCF and Higher Education…
Currently only full qualifications will earn UCAS tariff points for entry into HE. However, it is still unclear, at this stage how widely QCF qualifications will be accepted for university entry.
Where to go to find out which QCF qualifications are already available?
At the present time, QCF qualifications are being approved daily. Therefore, to see the latest list of QCF qualifications visit the National Database of Accredited Qualifications:
http://www.accreditedqualifications.org.uk