Education & Training

NVQs are accepted as a measure of competence within extractives and construction industries. Not working in the construction industry it would not be appropriate, or possible, to comment on the specific requirements of that sector. My advice would be to contact UKCG or CPCS direct in this instance.

Whilst regulated training was used previously the new arrangements will provide for recognising prior learning and skills ensuring programmes can be tailored rather than ‘one size must fit all’ regardless of an individuals’ particular needs. Although the training is deregulated the standard of performance via assessment is maintained. The test centres through which the assessments are undertaken are quality assured by the scheme operators who verify the standards of performance by continual monitoring of the tests to make sure the “testers” maintain the standards. However companies will need to keep accurate records of what training had been given to ensure they can, in the case of an HSE investigation, show that they had ...

Hi Julian I presume you are referring to the MPQC Shotfiring Certificates which are awarded as a result of successfully achieving the pass mark in the Shotfiring and Explosive Supervisor Exam. These will continue if there is demand as these exams are often used by those involved in Shotfiring in non-quarrying situations. They could also have a place as proof of knowledge having been gained by those to be appointed as Trainee Shotfirers. Regards Roseanne

Hi Mike MPQC has a very defined and detailed work-[plan for completing the ‘conversion’ of all sector-specific NVQs to the new QCF qualifications. Our timeline for completion is July 2010 although the absolute deadline set by the Regulators is December 2010. Therefore, we do not anticipate any difficulties in meeting the later deadline. Where the National Occupational Standards are under review e.g. blasting and drilling, the conversion work cannot commence until the revised NOS have been approved by the Regulators. With regards to Scotland SVQs are being retained however these qualifications also require to be assigned a credit value and a level within the new Scottish Credit & Qualifications Framework in the same ...