National Skills Qualification (NSQ) is a work related, competence based qualification with skills assessed at both the training centre and workplace. It a qualifications that show an understanding of the theory of the work in progress and also the competency of the individual as evidenced in their specific job role issued by a recognised awarding body. The standards have two main divisions:
Performance, which is carrying out the job.
Knowledge that people need to carry out the job. In other words, they need to know why they are doing the job.
In order that performance and knowledge can be measured against these standards, they are split up into separate subject headings known as units. The units describe the skills and knowledge needed to do the job effectively. The units are subdivided into two categories.
Mandatory units; are the ones that have to be completed and relate to tasks common to all activities.
Optional units: relate to more specific aspects of a job role and enable the qualification to be tailored to suit the individual.
Employees will be trained and assessed at their normal place of work.
An NSQ can be completed as a standalone qualification.
Taking NSQs could be appropriate if you already have skills and want to improve them, or if you are starting from scratch.
A world Government initiative to increase the skills of the workforce all over the world.