QCF tests and trials An introductory guide

What is the QCF? A simple and rational organising structure Supports a new way of recognising achievement through the award of credit for units and qualifications. Provides flexible routes to gaining full qualifications. Enables qualifications to be achieved in small steps.

Challenge Size Level 1 – 12 credits13 – 36 creditsAbove 36 credits A simple architecture

How it works – step by step Units (customised parcels of learning/ assessment) are given a level and credit value Units are submitted to the QCF databank Units are then combined together to make qualifications Regulators accredit qualifications to make sure they are of high quality Learners register for units and qualifications. Online search available. Learners are awarded credit when they complete a unit or qualification Awarded credit recorded on an electronic record of achievement (LAR) Learners can bank, spend or accumulate credit throughout their learning life.

The learner achievement Record When a learner completes a unit they are awarded the relevant credit(s) and this is recorded on their learner achievement record (LAR) The LAR is an electronic record that lists an individual’s credit and qualification achievements Learners can access their LAR online to:  track their progress towards achieving a qualification  explore potential routes to achievement (find qualifications for which they have already achieved some credit)  give permission to others (including employers and providers) to view the information contained within it. It is intended that learners in England, Wales and Northern Ireland will have access to the same data and functionality. Therefore the three regulators are exploring how the LAR can take account of country specific requirements e.g. the Welsh language and CQFW in Wales.

Testing and trialling the QCF  The QCF represents a big change to current arrangements for qualifications  Ministers have asked the three regulators for England (QCA), Wales (DELLS) and Northern Ireland (CCEA) to test and trial the framework  The results of the trials will help us understand whether the framework is…. Flexible Inclusive Easy to navigate Easy to understand

Who is involved in the test and trial projects? Lead organisation Awarding bodies Sector bodies Community organisations Voluntary organisations Providers and learners Employers

How will the tests and trials work? Tests and trials started in September 2006 and run through to July 2008 Partnerships are running projects with qualifications and learners to test the mechanisms of the QCF Two phases of test and trial projects (Sept 06 – Summer 08, March 07 – Summer 08) The experiences and outcomes of each project will be evaluated by an independent organisation (PwC) These findings will contribute to two reports for ministers:  An interim report (emerging findings) July 2007  A final report (overall findings and recommendations) July 2008 The QCF will form part of the Credit and Qualifications Framework for Wales (CQFW). The CQFW covers all post-16 and higher education in Wales. You can get more details from

More information For more information on the QCF you can visit the regulators web pages: If you are interested in receiving the QCF monthly e-update please your details to: If you would like to order copies of a QCF introductory leaflet (produced by the regulators) please call quoting QCA/06/2981. Bilingual copies are available from DELLS