New qualification routes replacing NVQs

The qualifications scene for career guidance is changing over the next few months.

Update 3rd March 2011

ICG as the accrediting body has issued the following positional statement on behalf of all the HE course centres in the UK offering the PgDip / QCG / QCGD:

"The PG Dip / QCG / QCGD offered by Higher Education course centres in the UK is accredited at QCF level 7 (Masters) although this does not preclude the inclusion of some level 6 learning, and as such meets the underpinning knowledge requirements of the QCF.

"The QCG/QCGD course centres support the proposal that the ICG accreditation of a professional careers adviser include additional competency based training undertaken during a fixed period of initial professional practice, following the completion of the level 7 QCG. However, decisions regarding the requirement to undertake any such training, how it is undertaken and by whom it would be assessed, need to be reached in consultation with QCG/ QCGD providers and be made clear to students prior to commencing their studies. Moreover, there should not be any requirement to repeat learning where the learning outcome has been met previously through the attainment of the level 7 QCG / QCGD. The course centres also welcome the opportunity for those with the QCG (level 7) to undertake level 6 OCR modules as part of a wider programme of ongoing continuous professional development."

Initial information October 2010

(This information was up to date as of October 2010. With the progression of the new qualifications scene and review of the framework involved, some of this information may now be out of date. Up to date information will be added above this entry as and when it becomes available)

The QCG and QCGD qualifications remain as they are, but the NVQ routes are being phased out and replaced with more robust and specialised qualifications.

The LLUK L4 Diploma in Careers Information and Advice has been developed with the Adult Advancement service in mind (now Next Step). The QCF L4 Diploma relates to the 'old' NVQ L3.

In November 2010, OCR envisage the LLUK L6 Diploma (Careers Guidance) being available. The QCF L6 Diploma will equate to the 'old' NVQ 4 .

For 14-19 qualifications we may have to wait for direction from the Coalition government. The LLUK L6 Diploma may be suitable for 14-19 (there are units on working with parents, and careers education in there) although it lacks a child protection unit at present.

The new Diploma in Advice and Guidance is for those organisations that work in more generalist settings, e.g. Citizen's Advice , libraries , student support etc.