Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 30 THE door industry journal winter 2024 Industry News Achieving an NVQ Achieving an NVQ for the Door, Gate, and Shutter Systems Diploma or the Loading Bay Equipment Certificate involves a work-based assessment focused on practical, on-the-job skills. Assessments are conducted through professional discussions, presentation of work evidence, and an on-site evaluation by a qualified assessor. For experienced individuals, the process can take as little as three months. This is ideal for those needing a Blue Skilled Worker card for construction site work and for proving competence in a more regulated industry. Peter Whyatt, Lead Assessor and Internal Quality Assessor of ESA explains the process and clarifies the myths surrounding the qualifications. Who is ESA? ESA, or Entrance Systems Alliance, was established in 2020 by dhf (Door & Hardware Federation) and ADSA (Automatic Door Suppliers Association). It is an NOCN Assessment Centre that oversees the quality of these assessments. ESA ensures that those awarded the qualifications meet industry standards, which is vital for professionals working on construction sites. Work-based Assessment Several modules within the NVQ require evidence of competence. Your assessor will discuss this with you at the start of the process. This NVQ process differs from traditional learning methods because it leverages the practical skills and experiences the candidate already has. The assessment begins with a discussion between the candidate, and a qualified assessor to map out the learner’s existing competencies and identify areas needing further evaluation. The learner demonstrates their abilities through Learner Work Evidence Records (LWER) and live job performance through an on-site assessment, and the assessor evaluates these skills in the context of their current employment, ensuring the process is grounded in practical work scenarios. During the on-site visit, you must demonstrate competence in both skill and knowledge of the product with which you work. As each NVQ is unique to the candidate, providing a list here would be too complex, but further information can be discussed with an Assessor. Depending on which NVQ is chosen, the assessments focus on areas such as installation, repair, maintenance and ensuring safety in the use of door, gate, and shutter systems or loading bay systems. Your Assessor will compile a portfolio of evidence, including • Previous Work Evidence Records (Experience) • Professional Discussions to ensure that the learner has the knowledge of the products, standards and procedures involved (Knowledge) • Practical on-site observation (Skills and Behaviours). This combined assessment method provides the SKEB that is used to prove competence. Flexibility and Efficiency For those with substantial industry experience, the NVQ process can be fast-tracked, taking as little as ten weeks to complete and provides a clear pathway to professional development. However, the average duration of the NVQ process typically takes between three and twelve months, depending on the individual’s experience, skills and knowledge. Industry-Recognised Qualification that is regulated by Ofqual The NVQ diploma and certificates serve as a lifelong qualification that not only demonstrates a worker’s competency but also fulfils the legal and safety requirements for working on construction sites. It also meets the sector’s competency standards, making it an essential qualification for professionals in door, gate, and shutter systems or loading bay equipment roles. In summary, the NVQ process, overseen by ESA, provides a practical, work-based route to industry-recognised certification that Tier 1 and Tier 2 contractors are starting to request of their sub-contractors. CSCS cards For those requiring a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card, dhf and ADSA have a range of cards essential for anyone working on-site. www.dhfonline.org.uk
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