The Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales: learning and progression routes

credit & qualifications

The implementation of the Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales (CQFW) and the UK Vocational Qualification Reform Programme (VQRP) will bring about significant reforms to the structure of UK vocational qualifications.

The CQFW is a way of recognising qualifications and other training through the award of credit.  This will make it easier for people to gain qualifications through flexible routes.  It will make it easier to compare different types of qualification and will make it clear what each qualification means, what the level is, what content they cover and how long they will take to complete.

Since September 2010 all vocational qualifications in Wales are part of the Credit and Qualifications Framework.

The changes are expected to encourage employers to demand more relevant and accessible qualifications. It will also enable individual learners to gain recognition for achievement of flexible learning and to be able to use that recognition as a pathway to a qualification. The use of credit accumulation and transfer will encourage lifelong learning and a greater willingness to participate in training. 

Opportunities for colleges

ColegauCymru / CollegesWales was commissioned by the Department for Children, Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills (DCELLS) of the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) to work with the further education sector in Wales to implement these reforms. Activity has involved working groups of key practitioners/senior managers from all institutions in Wales. They have looked in detail at the implications of the reform programme and of developments taking place in England and Scotland, and have held discussions with key stakeholders within the sector.

Opportunities for employers

Throughout 2010, ColegauCymru / CollegesWales, working with DCELLS, provided opportunities for employers and anyone else interested in workforce development to learn more about this important initiative and what it means for businesses through a series of seminars.

resources

This presentation summarises developments so far:
CQFW implementation English (Nov09)

Regional seminars for employers 15, 16 and 18 June 2010: click here for flyer and booking form Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales: Employers Seminars

Key CollegesWales contacts:

  • Adrian Sheehan
  • Katy Burns
  • Gavin Thomas
ColegauCymru, Uned 7, Cae Gwyrdd, Greenmeadow Springs, Tongwynlais Caerdydd, CF15 7AB. E:helo@colegaucymru.ac.uk Ff: 029 2052 2500
CollegesWales, Unit 7, Cae Gwyrdd, Greenmeadow Springs, Tongwynlais Cardiff, CF15 7AB. E:hello@collegeswales.ac.uk T: 029 2052 2500