QCF READINESS

QCF – an overview of concepts, policy and context

Newham Adult Learning Service

• The QCF is a new framework for recognising and accrediting qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

• The framework is at the heart of a major reform of the vocational qualifications system designed to make the whole system simpler to understand and use, and more inclusive

• The intention is to make both the system and the qualifications offered far more relevant to the needs of employers and more flexible and accessible for learners

WHAT IS THE QCF

CONTEXT FOR REFORMIn the Leitch implementation plan, the Government committed itself to becoming a world leader in skills by 2020.

Raising the skills levels of adults in and outside the

workforce

Creating a demand-led system that responds

to the needs of employers, learners

and society as a whole

Equipping young people with the skills they need for life and work

Creating a more flexible, innovative

and inclusive qualifications system

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

• A stronger role for employers and Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) in the development and approval of qualifications (sector qualifications reform)

• The reform of provision for those working at below Level 2 to help move them on to appropriate destinations (Foundation Learning)

• A funding system that can support a more demand-led and flexible approach to delivery

• A qualifications system that is far more relevant to the needs of employers and more flexible and accessible for learners

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS