So, what...

Is an Apprenticeship?
Is an NVQ?
Are Key Skills?
Is a Technical Certificate?

WHAT IS AN APPRENTICESHIP?
An Apprenticeship is a framework or "basket" of qualifications specified by a Sector Skills Council as the minimum needed by workers in the industry concerned. Apprentices are required to gain a relevant Level 2 NVQ, a number of Key Skills and, in some cases, a Technical Certificate. They are also required to understand how their industry operates and their Employment Rights and Responsibilities (ERR).

Advanced Apprenticeships are also available in some occupations. These are similar to Apprenticeships but require Level 3 NVQs, Advanced Technical Certificates, and higher level Key Skills.

Further information about all Apprenticeships can found at www.apprenticeships.org.uk

WHAT IS AN NVQ?
An NVQ is a work-based qualification designed to measure competence (skills and knowledge) in the job concerned. Each NVQ consists of a number of units (or modules), each describing the performance and knowledge that is required to undertake a particular task in various situations.

Each candidate must produce a portfolio of evidence which is checked by an assessor who is monitored by an internal verifier. The whole process is monitored by an external verifier working for the awarding body concerned.

There are 5 levels of NVQ:

• Level 1 (Introductory)
• Level 2 (Operator)
• Level 3 (Supervisor of Technician)
• Level 4 (Management/Professional)
• Level 5 (Senior Management)

WHAT ARE KEY SKILLS?
Key Skills are the general skills that everyone needs at work and in their everyday lives. They are precisely the qualities that are needed for a career in the Army and life afterwards. Although they are usually associated with Apprenticeships, Key Skills are nationally recognised qualifications in their own right and successful candidates receive certificates of achievement.

There are 4 levels of Key Skills overall, but Royal Engineers are most likely to need Level 1 (roughly the same level as GCSE Grades D-G) and Level 2 (roughly the same as GCSE Grade A* - C).

There are 6 Key Skills subjects:

• Communication (Comm)
• Application of Number (AoN)
• Information and Communications Technology (ICT)
• Working With Others (WWO)
• Improving Own Learning and Performance (IOLP)
• Problem Solving (PS)

Unless exempt because of qualifications that they already have, candidates for any of these subjects must produce a portfolio of evidence similar to an NVQ portfolio. Those undertaking Comm, AoN or ICT will also need to take an examination (usually multiple choice and often taken via the internet) in the subject(s) concerned.

Detailed information on all aspects of Key Skills is available at www.keyskillssupport.net

WHAT ARE TECHNICAL CERTIFICATES?
Technical Certificates focus on the knowledge and understanding that underpin the NVQ competencies. They may also cover wider aspects of the chosen occupation or sector. They prove that the learner understands the theory behind the job, just as the NVQ demonstrates their ability to carry out the practical tasks.

Advanced Technical Certificates are also available, usually as part of Advanced Apprenticeships.

NOTE: Further information about all national qualifications is available at the following Qualifications & Curriculum Authority website: www.openquals.org.uk