An Apprenticeship is not classed as a qualification in its own right but is a set of separate qualifications, called a ‘framework’. Most Apprenticeships frameworks follow a standard format comprising three components. If you want to know more, click on the links below:
The relevant Sector Skills Council will specify the Technical Certificate for their Apprenticeships, as well as the appropriate Key Skills and NVQs. For example, the details for engineering Apprenticeships can be found here.
NB As a consequence of various changes in vocational qualifications and in educational standards, Key Skills are in the process of being replaced by Functional Skills. This process has started and is to be implemented by 2011, but only in England. NVQs are being incorporated into the QCF and some Sector Skills Councils are replacing them by Diplomas. However, whether the qualification is an NVQ or Diploma, they will still be based on National Occupational Standards.
The training provider will provide the knowledge and develop the skills, and the employer will provide the practical experience to put those skills to the test, providing the evidence for completion of the NVQ component. Training can be classroom based, in a workshop or in the workplace, depending on the subject and on the training provider.
Each Apprenticeship framework is developed by standard setting bodies, who represent employers’ needs - the SSCs (Sector Skills Councils), who also set the content of the Technical Certificate.
