Qualifications

[itsme_calista]

I've just posted a bit in the IQPS folder about the "dumbing down" of skills, but would like other peoples' opinions about this as I don't know if I'm just going a bit mad.

I've recently completed my NVQ3 in Business & Administration, I also have Level 3 Diploma in Text Processing (incorporating Text Production, WP, Document Presentation and Audio) completed within the last 3 years.

I'm looking to do a Level 4 qualification and have been comparing a few and I came across this last night on the OCR website  

http://www.ocr.org.uk/Data/publications/key_documents/VRQ_Admin_Procedures_HDip_Datasheet.pdf

It is apparently a Level 4 qualification, however I find the competencies to be a little basic and the Secretarial states that Intermediate (level 2) qualifications need to be completed to obtain the full HDASP.

I cannot understand how Level 2 qualifications can be included as part of a Level 4?  If they had been Level 3 then I wouldn't think twice, is it just me or does this seem odd?

The competencies seem very basic, ie petty cash.

I could achieve this qualification very simply I pass the 3 year limit on my OCR Dip, but I'm not sure that is what I want from a Level 4.

I'd appreciate some opinions please.

C

[gee4]

Callie I have had a look and as I said whilst I have never gone down this route, I see that the Diploma is recognised by IQPS so perhaps firstly OCR need to change the wording on this.

Secondly it does seem quite basic especially the mailmerge competency required as part of the HDASP qualification.  I completed advanced competencies when I completed MOS Master.  So unless there is something you really want or need for your career, you are probably doing a lot more besides this in your job already.

How does this compare to the LCCI Diplomas?  I never know what is higher than the other and would love to know where they all fit into the grand scheme of things.

[matg]

Hi itsme

I'm guessing you've already looked at the Level 4 NVQ in Business and Administration and, like myself, ruled it out?

You might consider the IAM Level 4 Diploma in Administrative Management.  Alternatively, if you're looking to progress academically, my advice would be to jump straight to Level 5 with a BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND).

I could type a lot more detail here, but in all honesty it's getting late and I'm starting to fall asleep.  Feel free to ask any specific questions that you might have though - am always happy to help in this area.

Take care

Matt Griffin MIPA
Wales Regional Coordinator
Institute of Professional Administrators

[gee4]

Matt,

Were do all these fit in relation to each other eg. Diplomas, HNDs, Degrees, NVQs, BTEC etc?

I always thought NVQs were only affiliated to certain subject areas.

[matg]

Hi gee4

There are two types of qualification - academic, and vocational.

Academic refers to traditional qualifications like GCSE and A-level.  It can also refer to qualifications that would typically be delivered through teaching sessions and lectures.  HNC/HNDs and degrees are examples of these.

Vocational refers to qualifications that would typically involve a large element of work-based learning or practical work.  An NVQ is a good example of this.

Most of the qualifications delivered through FE colleges combine aspects of both of these.  Programmes like, for example, the BTEC First Diploma/National Diploma and other awarding bodies that use the Award/Certificate/Diploma route.

NVQs are available in almost every occupational sector.

All qualifications that are approved by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) are given a level of learning on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) from Entry Level to Level 8.  I've given some examples below:

Level 8 - Doctoral
Level 7 - Masters degree
Level 6 - Honours degree
Level 5 - HND
Level 4 - HNC / NVQ L4
Level 3 - A-level / NVQ L3 / BTEC National Dip.
Level 2 - GCSE (A-C) / NVQ L2 / BTEC First Dip.
Level 1 - GCSE (D-G) / NVQ L1
Entry (LE) - Entry Level Cert. in Adult Literacy

So, someone who has achieved an HNC in Business would have studied at the same leve as someone who has achieved the NVQ L4 in Business and Administration - although the course content and delivery method would be different.

Hope this answers some of your questions.  Feel free to ask if there's anything you're unsure about.

Matt Griffin MIPA
Wales Regional Coordinator
Institute of Professional Administrators

[gee4]

Thank you Matt.  That is very helpful.