FAQs - Training

How much do your training courses cost?

The cost of our courses depends on the delivery method selected, whether this is distance learning or work based learning. Some of our courses may attract government funding, depending on individual eligibility. For large groups of learners we may also be able to offer group discounts. Because of changes in funding etc we do not publish our price list on the website. Please contact us for a personal quote.

Do you offer payment plans ?

You can pay for your course fully up front or in 3 monthly instalments.

Can anyone undertake your qualifications?

All of the qualifications we offer are nationally recognised formal qualifications, accredited by City and Guilds. Some of our qualifications are knowledge based only and can therefore be taken by individuals who aspire to work in a role to help them to gain employment. Our higher level qualifications are normally both knowledge and performance based and can only be undertaken by individuals already working within the role at a specific level. Please contact us for advice on which is the most appropriate qualification and level for you to undertake.

How do the QCF qualfications compare to NVQs and other types of qualifications?

The Qualifications Credit Framework (QCF) is the new government framework which sets out how all regulated vocational qualifications are structured, titled and quality assured. It is replacing the existing National Qualifications Framework (NQF) across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The QCF does not recognise the differing types of qualifications that existed under the NQF (eg. VRQ and NVQ). NVQs will therefore be redeveloped on the QCF. The new QCF regulations have stated that the term 'NVQ' can be used in the title of QCF qualifications to help identify that assessment was competency based.

Like NVQs, QCF qualifications are made up of Units based on National Occupational Standards (NOS). However, whereas NVQ Units are directly based on the NOS Units, QCF Units look very different, they can be performance units or knowledge units (whereas NVQ Units must contain both knowledge and performance) and they can be combined more flexibly than NVQs.

There are 8 levels to the QCF framework. This informs you of how difficult the qualification is. Some common examples of comparative qualifications are provided below.

Level 2 QCF qualifications are broadly equivalent to- NVQ Level 2, 5 GCSE’s Grades A-C.

Level 3 QCF qualifications are broadly equivalent to- NVQ Level 3, 3 A Level passes, BTEC National Diploma.

What is the difference between an Award, Certificate and Diploma on the QCF framework?

Every unit and qualification within the QCF contains a credit value. The number of credit values informs you of the length of course. There are three sizes of qualification in the QCF.

• Award (1 to 12 credits)
• Certificate (13 to 36 credits)
• Diploma (37 credits or more)