Physical Science, Measurement and Instrumentation, Management and Education, IEE Proceedings A

The author outlines some of the principal features of the work of the National Council for Vocational Qualifications (NCVQ) and how trends in employment are influencing this work. He emphasises the need for a system for vocational standards and qualifications in the UK which is both relevant and flexible. He also outlines the contribution being made by employers, employee representatives and professionals, to the achievement of relevance, through their work in ´lead bodies´, and how the National Council is facilitating flexibility in approaches to both initial and continuing learning. The author compares and contrasts the approaches being adopted to vocational standards and qualifications in the UK with those in other member states in the European Single Market. The reasons for a different approach in the UK, and how the National Council is pioneering a system based on competence needed for employment, are outlined.