Qualifications and Credit Framework

The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is the new framework for developing and recognising qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. It makes the vocational qualification system easier to understand and use. You will be able to study smaller bits of learning which you can build up into a nationally recognised qualification.  Read more...

QCF

Flexibility is Key

The QCF gives you bite-sized learning that you can ‘pick and mix’ to suit you.

 

A Qualification System Easy to Understand

How does the QCF work?

The QCF is made up of different sized units of learning – 1 credit equals 10 hours of studying. Each unit is also given a level showing how difficult it is. You can build up units and credits in small steps, which can then be built up into a full qualification.

Each qualification is named in the same way and shows the level (1 to 8), size (Award/ Certificate/ Diploma) and subject (Horticulture).

There are three sizes of qualifications in the QCF:

  • Awards (1 to 12 credits)
  • Certificates (13 to 36 credits)
  • Diplomas (37 credits or more).

QCF benefits:

  • The QCF allows you to pick units of learning that will be suitable for your employees
  • The QCF allows you to get your own in-house training programmes recognised
  • The QCF allows you to transfer and get units of learning you have already completed recognised
  • The QCF allows you to complete units of learning at your own pace in a way that fits around your home and work life.

How are the units developed?

Many of the units of learning in the QCF are developed from National Occupational Standards (NOS). Each unit contains:

  • learning outcomes that show what you should know, understand or be able to do
  • assessment criteria that outlines the standard you need to achieve to complete the unit.

The unit is given a level (1 to 8) showing how difficult it is, a size (Award/ Certificate/ Diploma) showing how long it takes to complete and title depending on the subject (Horticulture).

The units are joined together to make qualifications and this is called the Rule of Combination. It is a list of units that must be completed, some of which may be mandatory and some optional.

Useful publications:

Introducing the QCF
Information for learners
Information for Higher Education Institutes
Information for IAG
Information for Awarding Organisations
An employers guide to using the QCF
 

In this area

In other areas

What do you think about the QCF?

If you have any comments about the QCF or have taken a QCF qualification, we would love to hear from you.

 Email us