Why study for a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)?
The NVQ route has been adopted because it is based on standards of competence that have been defined by the employment sector, which are seen as being directly relevant to the needs of employers. They recognise people’s practical skills at work, rather than relying totally on knowledge learnt from academic study. Standards are maintained by continual assessment, this means that candidates undergoing an NVQ can expect to see their assessor on a regular basis.
Who are they for?
Just about anyone and everyone. NVQs are about competence in the workplace. Any person wanting an NVQ must actually be doing the work to be able to be properly assessed for competence.
What do I get at the end of my study?
You will receive a certificate detailing the level of qualification and a list of the units verified. LEIA will be shown as the Assessment Centre, this is important as it signifies the industry in which the qualification was gained. Qualifications are awarded by EAL, the specialist skills partner and awarding organisation for industry.
What skill areas can be covered?
NVQs are available for a number of skill areas, as shown below. For details of the specific pathway to obtain each qualification please follow the individual links.
NVQ3 Lift & Escalator Qualifications
NVQ2 Stairlift, Service Lift and Lifting Platform Qualifications
Level 4 Certificate in Performing Testing Operations in the
Lift and Escalator Industry
EOR Basic Safety Units
Level 2 Certificate in Lift and Escalator Support Services Qualification
The EAL Level 2 Certificate in Lift and Escalator Support Services qualification is available to register on through the LEIA training provider network. It has been designed to allow workers to be suitably assessed and prove competence in their chosen discipline. The qualification requires five units to be completed in total (three of which are mandatory). The total qualification time is recorded at 170 hours of study and evidence collection for assessment. LEIA anticipates that this could be completed in a six month period (provided the learner has access to collect evidence and undertakes the work to produce the portfolio).
Where are NVQs undertaken?
They can be undertaken in the workplace, in a college, or through a training provider. For lift, escalator, stairlift and lifting platforms all NVQs are undertaken in the workplace.
When do courses start?
There are no pre-set start dates, which means that a candidate can be registered at any time of the year. Individuals can start with one unit and progress at their own rate. There is no hard and fast guidance on the duration for completion of an NVQ. However, as an indicator, a new entrant to the lift and escalator industry who has completed their first-year basic training will take between two and three years to complete a level 3 NVQ.
How do I start/register to study for an NVQ?
Speak to your company training department or person responsible for training.
Further Frequently Asked Questions
Please contact us should you have any queries.