Reforming vocational qualifications

The UK’s vocational qualifications system is changing.

The UK Vocational Qualification Reform Programme (UKVQRP) aims to make the system simpler and more flexible. Creative & Cultural Skills is working to give employers a voice in these reforms.

We are also making sure that all qualifications in our sectors adhere to the Government’s new vocational Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).

Giving the creative and cultural industries a voice

Creative & Cultural Skills is leading the Sector Qualification Reform Programme for the creative and cultural industries. We want to make sure that employers’ needs are reflected every step of the way.

Working with the sector, we decide on the qualifications that will be developed, approve of these qualifications, and advise on those that should receive priority funding for each sector.

In January 2009, we published our Sector Qualifications Strategy. This outlines the education and training needs of employers in our sectors. It also provides advice to awarding organisations on how vocational qualifications should be reformed to better address these needs.

The Qualifications and Credit Framework

The Qualifications and Credit Framework aims to enable learners to gain flexible qualifications at their own pace.

The Qualifications and Credit Framework was launched in November 2008. It is now being implemented across the UK.

Creative & Cultural Skills is redesigning all existing vocational qualifications in our sectors so that they fit into the new framework. We are working closely with awarding organisations in this work. Together we will ensure that qualifications accredited to the new Qualifications and Credit Framework are fit for purpose and address real industry needs.

You can view an animated guide to the Qualifications and Credit Framework.

For more information on the reform of vocational qualifications in the creative and cultural industries, please contact qualifications@ccskills.org.uk.