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What is the difference between the NQF and the QCF?
Currently, the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) sets out the levels against which a qualification can be recognised but there are no agreed criteria for the titling or size of qualifications. The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is a new way of recognising skills and qualifications. It does this by awarding credit for qualifications and units (small steps of learning) to enable learners to gain qualifications at their own pace along flexible routes. It will also provide a simple and standardised framework that will enable a learner or employer to quickly understand the difficulty (level) and size (number of credits) of any qualifications or units achieved.
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Number of downloads:	607	Resource type(s):	Development of the QCF; Education and skills
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Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF)
Link to the QCF section on QCA website

What is the UKVQRP
The UK Vocational Qualifications Reform Programme has been set up by the government to create a system that responds to the needs of learners and employers through the introduction of the Qualifications and Credit Framework, by enhancing the role of the Sector Skills Councils and through changes to funding systems. You can find further information on the DIUS website: http://www.dius.gov.uk/vqreform/

What is happening to NVQs?
The QCF currently does not recognise any qualification types - it only defines qualifications in terms of size and demand. In the NQF, each qualification type has its own regulatory criteria. NVQ is a qualification type as it has its own codes of practice. There is only the QCF regulatory arrangements within the QCF. They specify that the term ‘NVQ’ may be used as a bracketed addition to a qualification title for certain occupational qualifications provided they meet the requirements set out in the regulatory document 'Operating rules for using the term NVQ in a QCF Qualification title' For further information both this document and the 'Regulatory arrmangements for the QCF' can be found in the 'Key Documents' page on this website.

What are the key differences between the QCF and NQF?
Currently the National Qualification Framework (NQF) sets out the levels against which a qualification can be recognised but there are no agreed criteria for the titling or size of qualifications. The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is a new way of recognising skills and qualifications. It does this by awarding credit for qualifications and units (small steps of learning) to enable learners to gain qualifications at their own pace along flexible routes. It will also provide a simple and standardised framework that will enable a learner or employer to quickly understand the difficulty (level) and size (number of credits) of any qualifications or units achieved.

Can you tell us more about the QCF test and trials?
The first year's (2006-2007) focus was on testing out the technical details ie the design of units, the combination of units and the credit value of units. The second year's(2007-2008) focus was on the learner's experience. Most tests and trials are led by a sector body or an awarding organisation, though nearly all have awarding organisation involvement. A second set of tests and trials with employer recognised awards and provider recognised awards got underway in October 2007. The final reports from the tests and trials were completed at the end of April 2008. These reports will contribute to inform the final recommendations to ministers about the future of the national roll out of the QCF. For more information, go to http://www.qca.org.uk/qca_8152.aspx .