Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency

Last updated: 15 October 2009

Frequently Asked Questions about the QCF

 

What is the QCF Readiness Programme?

As part of the implementation of the QCF across England, QCDA is co-ordinating a readiness programme for awarding organisations, SSC/Bs and learning providers. QCDA is working with delivery partners including The Alliance of Sector Skills Councils (for sector bodies), FAB/JCQ (for submitting and awarding organisations), the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS), Association of Colleges (AoC) and the Association of Learning Providers (ALP) - for learning providers.  Delivery partners are delivering programmes of capacity building for stakeholders. In addition QCDA is developing a wide range of communication materials to support QCF readiness.

Visit the QCF readiness page  for QCF materials and resources.

What is the protocol for using the QCF Readiness visual identity?

Rules of engagement for third party usage of the QCF readiness visual identity have been established.  These will be published on QCDA's website when available, but in the meantime please email qcfreadiness@qcda.gov.uk for advice.

Where can I find out information about QCF Regulatory arrangements and requirements to operate in the QCF in England?

Ofqual is the regulator of qualifications, exams and tests in England.  Ofqual, together with its partner regulators in Wales (DCELLS) and Northern Ireland (CCEA), is responsible for regulation of the QCF. The regulatory requirements that apply to the organisations that operate within, and the qualifications that are accredited into, the QCF are set out in Regulatory arrangements for the Qualifications and Credit Framework.  Information about the QCF can be found on the Ofqual website available from this page. http://www.ofqual.gov.uk/51.aspx

Where can I find out information about planning, funding and performance for the QCF?

The LSC is responsible for QCF implementation and has published a first edition of the LSC QCF question and answer document. This document sets out detailed responses to the various questions that stakeholders may have on how the LSC is taking forward QCF implementation, primarily around the design and delivery of the Service Layer and how they are ensuring that planning, funding and performance are aligned to the QCF. It also provides contact details for the service desk and links to web based materials and support.  Details can be found on the LSC website available from this page.

 

Where can I find out information about the Service Layer and how this will work for QCF implementation?

The LSC is responsible for QCF implementation and has published a first edition of the LSC QCF question and answer document. This document sets out detailed responses to the various questions that stakeholders may have on how the LSC is taking forward QCF implementation, primarily around the design and delivery of the Service Layer and how they are ensuring that planning, funding and performance are aligned to the QCF. It also provides contact details for the service desk and links to web based materials and support.  Details can be found  on the LSC website available from this page.

Who does what in the qualification development process?

Organisations in the QCF can choose to be recognised to:

• Develop and submit units to form part of accredited qualifications
• Develop rules of combination for accredited qualifications
• Operate as awarding organisations

Organisations will not be recognised solely to develop rules of combination

Details about the main roles and responsibilities of organisations operating within the QCF can be found on the Ofqual website.

Outline qualification development process:

• Sector Skills Councils and Standard Setting Bodies (SSC/SSBs) develop National Occupational Standards (NOS) and Sector Qualification Strategies (SQSs)
• Organisations approved to develop qualifications have early dialogue with SSCs/Bs to ensure proposed qualification meets the SQS
• Approved organisations develop Rules of Combination (ROC) for how units may be used in accredited qualifications
• Awarding organisations develop qualifications and the proposed qualification is submitted to the relevant SSC/B for approval
• The approved qualification is submitted to Ofqual for accreditation
• Subject to meeting requirements, Ofqual accredits the qualification and details are included on the National Database of Accredited Qualifications (NDAQ)

How do I find out what qualifications are available in the QCF?

The National Database of Accredited Qualifications (NDAQ) contains details of all accredited qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. You are able to search for QCF qualifications using the 'Search for Qualifications' tab at the top of the screen and selecting QCF in the 'Qualification type' box. You can also search for qualifications on NDAQ by keyword, level, Awarding Body, job occupation and sectors.

A detailed NDAQ leaflet will be available shortly.

Will 14-19 qualifications be included in the QCF?

DCSF has requested that QCDA produce a business plan to scope out the technical issues and benefits for inclusion of 14-19 qualifications on the QCF.  The business plan will inform future decision making, to include GCSEs; A levels; Diplomas (and their component parts); Foundation Learning; qualifications within Apprenticeship Frameworks and Functional Skills. The report is due to be submitted in November 2009

What is the Employer Engagement Programme and how does it relate to the QCF?

The Employer Engagement Programme helps employers directly engage with the QCF to develop qualifications to fit their business needs.  There are three main ways to achieve this:

• Map training to an existing qualification
• Tailor an existing qualification to your business needs
• Develop a full bespoke qualification

Please email recognition@qcda.gov.uk for further information.

The full list of of frequently asked questions ca be found from the right hand side of this page.