Blog

1. Why has the name changed to QCF?
The Qualifications and Credit Framework is the new way of recognising vocational (work-related) achievement. Credits are awarded, allowing employees a more flexible way of achieving qualifications that allows them to progress at their own pace.
2. Who is the QCF Diploma in Health and Social Care aimed at?
Levels 2 and 3 are aimed at those working in all social care settings, whether with adults or children. Level 5 is for those who lead social care provision either as managers or senior practitioners.
3. How are awards calculated?
Each unit of learning or qualification will be awarded two values: a credit value and a level. The credit value will be representative of the amount of learning time needed to complete the unit. The levels range from entry level to Level 8, and the qualification level represents the level of difficulty of the unit or qualification.
4. How do the qualifications compare to the old NVQs?
This new framework is a complex one; as such it offers much greater flexibility to employees, and the opportunity to obtain tailor-made qualifications that suit the specific needs of their industry. Unfortunately, this makes it difficult to make direct comparisons with the old awards and qualifications system.