The European Qualifications Framework and National Frameworks

By Judith Compton

UK Commission for Employment and Skills

UK Commission for Employment and Skills

• Outcomes of Arm’s Length Body due this week;• Positive outcome likely – strong support from

BIS;• Scope of review includes SSCs;• Assuming 40% reduction in funding over term of

CSR to 2014/15;• New Chairman – Charlie Mayfield;• New Interim CEO – Michael Davis;

• New business plan – well advanced.

Strategic Objectives for 2011/14

What is the EQF?

DefinitionAn overarching framework which enables EU countries to compare qualifications

Features8 Levels;Inclusive – all qualifications;Locally referenced.

Example: EQF/SCQF Alignment

Its Purpose

• Translations device – shows how to compare qualifications between EU countries;

• Mobility of workers/learners across EU;

• Supports lifelong learning for individual;

• Helps employers target training budgets – and prevents unnecessary duplication of training

EQF and the UK Commission for Employment and Skills

• Supports “Intelligence” – consistent approach to tracking progress with skills through qualifications;

• Supports “Investment” – employers and individuals know how and where to invest in skills;

• Supports “Impact” - clear information and benchmarks to work with.

This Specific Project:Working with Sectors

• Importance of looking at implications on sectoral basis;

• Initial work in four important sectors: - social care- land-based- health- construction

• Areas for study are needs, priorities, skills development, skills utilisation, recognition of qualifications