1. Why Qualifications Frameworks
Why Qualifications Frameworks? Barbara Kelly Director of Qualifications 19 September 2016

2. Background (Ireland)
National Framework of Qualifications was established in 2003.
Significant national discussion and debate with education and business stakeholders.
In 2006, NFQ was self certified as compatible with the Qualifications Framework for the European Higher Education Area (the Bologna Framework).
By 2006/7 used to classify skills in Ireland’s National Skills Strategy.
In 2009 the Irish NFQ was referenced to the European Qualifications Framework for Lifelong Learning(EQF).
Today EQF levels appear on many qualification certificates issued in Ireland and also on Certificate and Diploma Supplements.
NFQ – currently includes only national awards (underpinned by Quality Assurance).
From 2016 recommencing a national dialogue on NFQs.
Planning a Review of the NFQ to assess impact.
Currently seeking a legislative amendment to better support recognition of foreign awards.

3. National Framework of Qualifications
QQI, an integrated agency for quality and qualifications in Ireland

4. Why develop a National Qualifications Framework?
Economic & social
Education – support players/stakeholders
Recognition (academic & professional)
Where to?

5. Economic & social
Nearly one in eight people living in Ireland comes from abroad (11.8%)………..the sixth highest proportion of foreign nationals in Europe
Diverse Labour force
Matching skills & labour market needs
Social inclusion - promoting one step up
Maximising potential & talent.

6. Education - Supporting stakeholders
Ministries/agencies
Education and training providers
Industry/sectors/employers
Professional bodies
Regulators
Community of practice
Learners

7. Recognition
Comprehensive Framework (General, vocational, higher education)
Academic and Professional
Transparency
Comparability
Mobility

8. Where to? Neighbouring country arrangements
Qualifications Frameworks and systems need to be dynamic and innovative
Informal and non-formal learning
Private, professional, sectoral and international qualifications
Neighbouring country arrangements
Development of Regional Frameworks and interest in World Reference levels/learning outcomes
Europeans are using their qualifications outside of the country where they were achieved. Holders of qualifications achieved outside of Europe are presenting their qualifications in Europe as they seek further education, training and employment opportunities.
The EQF can play an important role in signalling the policy intent that qualifications frameworks need to be open and responsive.
The EQF can play an important function in facilitating the recognition of European qualifications internationally and the recognition of qualifications from around the world in Europe.
We would encourage the work on establishing and strengthening the associations between the EQF and qualifications frameworks outside of the EQF zone.
European New Skills Agenda (Driver) including revised EQF Recommendation
Next phase important - new challenges………. new supports needed
Crossroads………. Fix or Grow

9. Thank you bkelly@qqi.ie