iTQ and QCF - this provides details about how this works:

The Qualifications and Credit Framework

How does the QCF work?

What are the benefits of the QCF?

Further information

What is the Qualifications and Credit Framework?
The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is a new, flexible way of recognising learner achievement.  Now learners can receive credit for successfully completing individual units, as well as for gaining complete qualifications.  With this new format, training providers can develop more flexible and innovative approaches to learning.

The QCF will be a more inclusive system that recognises valuable learning currently taking place outside the National Qualifications Framework, such as employer-led training.  It will be aligned with frameworks in Scotland, Wales and Europe, enabling learners to transfer their achievements across national boundaries.

The objectives of the framework tests and trials are to:

• develop and test an operational model of the framework with stakeholders
• evaluate whether a unit-based system underpinned by credit can support a range of qualifications and learning programmes across sectors, learning and training contexts and awarding bodies
• evaluate whether a fully functioning credit system can support and improve learner progression and achievement
• evaluate whether potential benefits (including flexibility, inclusiveness, simplicity and reduced bureaucracy) can be delivered through the framework
• evaluate through the trials in England whether the development of the framework can contribute to the Learning and Skills Council's strategic priorities and targets for publicly funded qualifications eg contributing to adult Public Service Agreement targets such as offender learning provision and Level 2 provision.

How does the QCF work?
It is a unit based system which is measure in 'credits', which is similar to the Credit Accumulation and Transfer schemes (CATs) that operate in universities.  This approach means that learners can bank these credits so that they can use them as part of a qualification or build up a number of credits as part of their individual learner record.  The qualifications are created from the units the learner has banked, using Rules of Combination (RoCs).

What are the benefits of the QCF?
The QCF allows more flexibility in the courses that centres can design for their learners, which will help make the programme more applicable to the requirements of employers.  By having bite-sized chunks for your candidates to sink their teeth into, retention and progression will be improved.  Learners can also see how they are getting along by having their achievements tracked through their Learner Achievement Records (LARs).  Being able to see what an individual has actually completed means that employers will have a clearer idea of the skills that prospective employees hold.

The learner will need to be able to demonstrate that they have the necessary knowledge, understanding and practical skills to use IT effectively and efficiently.  All the assessment can be carried out in the workplace or in a college, or with another training provider.

Further information
For further information on the Qualifications and Credit Framework tests and trials, you can go to the QCA website. 
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