Key skills, NVQs and accredited qualifications
Last updated on: 11/03/2008
Where can I find the mark schemes for the example tests?
Copies of the mark schemes for the key skills example tests are available from the awarding bodies that develop key skills qualifications. You can find the contact details of these awarding bodies by using the qualification type drop-down box in the advanced search on the National Database of Accredited Qualifications.
Ofqual recognises that centres may wish to use the exemplar test papers as practice papers for candidates. The mark schemes for the tests have not been posted on the website to keep examinations fair.
Are qualifications other than Entry level and GCSE available for pupils in year 10 or year 11? Do these count towards the performance tables?
Yes, there is a wide choice of modern foreign language (MFL) qualifications approved for use at key stage 4. For full information visit the qualifications section of the MFL subject pages on the QCA website, accessible from the 'related links' box on this page.
All of these qualifications are included in pupil achievement and attainment tables. The points score for each qualification is included in the hyperlink attached to each relevant qualification. You can search for these qualifications using the National Database of Accredited Qualifications website.
Where can I find information about qualifications in modern foreign languages?
You can find out which modern foreign language qualifications are available by searching the National Database of Accredited Qualifications website.
The learning of a foreign language in primary school provides a valuable educational, social and cultural experience for all pupils. Learning another language raises awareness of the multilingual and multicultural world and introduces an international dimension to pupils' learning. This gives them an insight into their own culture and those of others.
You can find information about the non-statutory guidelines, statutory requirements, different schemes of work and other details on the modern foreign languages pages of the QCA website, accessible from the 'related links' box on this page.
What is the NVQ code of practice?
The NVQ code of practice sets out the responsibilities for NVQ awarding bodies and their approved centres for the administration, assessment and verification of national vocational qualifications (NVQs) and NVQ units. It was originally published in 2001 following a wide consultation.
There is strong support for NVQs together with a commitment to improving their integration into a modernised vocational qualification system. For further information about the current qualification reforms visit the NVQ section of this website.
The NVQ code of practice has been updated following the publication of the revised The statutory regulation of external qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2004. The updated version of the NVQ code of practice 2006 is available to download from the 'related links' box on this page.
These updates are the outcome of consultation between the three regulators, Ofqual (England), Department for Children, Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills (Wales), and Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (Northern Ireland).
Alternatively, copies can be ordered using the reference QCA/06/2888, from our publications page.
What publications are available to help assessors and verifiers?
The publication Joint awarding body guidance on internal verification is aimed at National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) assessors and internal verifiers. It provides information on the process of internal verification. It is available from the 'related links' section of this page.
There are a number of publications that can provide additional help to NVQ assessors and verifiers. The Employment National Training Organisation (ENTO) is now a commercial organisation who produce a useful range of resources.
Appropriate publications from ENTO:
• Excellence in Assessing, 2006, ENTO
• Excellence in assessment and verification, 2004, ENTO.
These books are available to order through the ENTO website.