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