National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ's)
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ's) are nationally recognised qualifications based on the demonstration of competence in the workplace.
The NVQ standards are agreed by employers in the relevant industry. In the land-based sector the national occupational standards are agreed by Lantra, which is the Sector Skills Council for land and environment.
The process of NVQ assessment is controlled by awarding bodies who approved certification and Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland is approved as an assessment centre by City & Guilds to provide assessment in the NVQs in Environmental Conservation, Amenity Horticulture and Horticulture.
No previous qualifications are required to begin the NVQ. In some cases it may not be necessary for the candidate to undergo any further training. If they already have the required skills and knowledge they can undergo assessment straight away.
Conservation Volunteers Northern Ireland can offer the Traineeship and Modern Apprenticeship options of Jobskills in the greater Belfast area, and also provides assessment opportunities to volunteers. Training and assessment can also be organised to suit the needs of other organisations.