Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF)
We're working hard to develop our QCF portfolio and transfer our existing NQF qualifications onto the QCF. Please check our regularly updated QCF development timetables for status updates of our QCF qualifications which are not yet live.
What is it? – the QCF will, for the first time, introduce a standard currency for learner achievement across the qualifications system through the award of credit. It’s a framework with a new way of recognising skills and qualifications. It does this by awarding credit for qualifications and units (small steps of learning) and enables people to gain qualifications at their own pace along flexible routes. For more information, check out our QCF FAQs.
Understanding credit – all new units developed for inclusion on the QCF must include a credit value. The credit value's role is to indicate the amount of directed learning time required on average, for a learner to achieve a unit. Learning time is made up not only of Guided Learning Hours (GLH) but also of directed time spent 'away from the provider' (non-GLH: homework, independent research, work placement / experience).
What it means to learning providers – besides being able to offer more freedom, flexibility, choice and opportunities for learners it will also:
♦ help improve retention and progression rates by recognising smaller steps of achievement
♦ track all learners' achievements through the use of a unique learner number (ULN) and an individual's electronic learner record, giving providers standard information about each learner's past achievements
♦ describe achievements to employers and learners in a language that’s easy to understand.
What we’re doing – at the heart of the Skills for Business network there are currently 25 Sector Skills Councils (SSC). In line with government policy qualifications should be led by employer needs the SSCs are employer-led, independent organisations that cover a specific sector across the UK. We’re required to work with the SSC and other awarding bodies collaboratively to determine specific dates and timescales for each redevelopment of qualifications (or units) for the QCF. It’s likely that only qualifications on the QCF will be eligible for public funding from 2010.
