National Vocational Qualifications
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) or Competence-based qualifications reflect the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively. They are work-based qualifications that give learners the opportunity to demonstrate their competence in the area of work or job role to which the qualification relates.
NVQs/Competence-based qualifications are outcomes-based with no fixed learning programme, allowing flexibility in their delivery to meet the individual learner’s needs. The qualifications are based on the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for the sector, which define what employees, or potential employees, must be able to do and know, and how well they should undertake work tasks and work roles.
Learn More…
How does it work?
First of all you need to be working in the vocational area that you want to be qualified in. So if you are looking for an NVQ in Engineering Maintenance, then that is what you should be doing, at the level required.
We use the OneFile e-portfolio to track your progress, and even your employer or parent can have their own access.
NVQ learners often balance full‑time work with evidence collection. Because of this, we provide clear, practical support to help you meet your performance criteria.
How long does it take?
The record stands at 3 weeks for the NVQ in Engineering Maintenance, but he was prepared, had lots of APL and was really determined to get it all done quickly.
Typically students can take anywhere between 3 to 12 months to complete, and you don’t need to take the full 12 Months like bricks and mortar colleges, because we are flexible.
OneFile e-Portfolio
We use the industry wide e-portfolio from OneFile. This allows learners to access their portfolio from any mobile device, so you can access it on your smartphone in the workplace or on site. With the OneFile app on your phone you can video or photograph or audio record your evidence, straight into your portfolio.
Approved Scheme
This qualification will allow you to claim letters after your name (EngTech), once you have joined the IET, no matter the pathway.
Please also see the web page:
Functional Skills: Maths & English
If your programme includes Functional Skills, you’ll find practice materials and tutor support here. In addition, we provide confidence‑building tips to help you progress.
Evidence
How can I use work based evidence?
There are many ways to provide evidence, such as:
Reflective Account (RA) – A write up of a course, situation, job with embedded WP
Work Product (WP) – such as job sheets, work instructions, Risk Assessments
Personal Statements (PS) – A written account of a job you did, can include WP and photos
Video Link (VL) – A live connection with your assessor via smartphone
Video Recording (VR) – Using your smartphone or helmet mounted camera, film yourself doing the job
Portfolio Building
Learn how to gather workplace evidence, write reflective accounts, and link your work to the required units. Consequently, your portfolio will demonstrate your competence effectively.
Assessment Criteria Support
If you’re unsure what assessors look for, this short course breaks it down into simple, understandable steps to help you recognise the criteria in your existing evidence.
Workplace Evidence Guidance
You’ll find examples of suitable evidence and advice on how to present it. For instance, you’ll learn how to use photos, documents, and witness testimonies appropriately.
Learning Tools & Resources
This section brings together useful tools for every learner type. For example, you’ll find:
- Study planners & templates
- Remote learning tips
- TOTUM card information
- YouTube learning playlists
- Checklists & downloadable resources
Together, these tools help you stay organised and confident.
NVQ Learning Materials
Semester Learning & Development provides flexible online materials designed to support learning directly in the workplace. Our courses recognise that NVQ learners often already have valuable skills and experience, so each Unit helps you gather clear evidence of what you can already do, while also guiding you to develop new skills as you progress.
Each course is organised into practical, work‑focused Units. These Units link your day‑to‑day tasks with the knowledge and behaviours required for your qualification. As you complete activities at work, you will produce evidence such as observations, work products, reflective accounts, and supervisor feedback.
Learning materials combine short videos, web resources, and easy‑to‑follow reading designed to fit around a busy job role. All videos focus on real workplace examples to help you understand how theory connects to practice. You can access everything through our user‑friendly Moodle Learning Management System (LMS) on your phone, tablet, or laptop.
Whether you are new to NVQs or already experienced in your role, our approach supports steady progress: recognising what you already do well, strengthening areas for development, and helping you build a strong portfolio of workplace evidence throughout the course.
ETA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Fabrication and Welding
Fabrication and Welding is a work based vocational qualification. You will need to be employed in this sector and be able to provide evidence through the use of video, pictures and work product.
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations
Price displayed excludes VAT
Performing Engineering Operations is a work based vocational qualification (NVQ). You will need to be employed in this sector and be able to provide evidence through the use of video, pictures and work product.
BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Professional Competence for IT and Telecoms Professionals (QCF) Wales
If you are working in IT or Telecoms and need a qualification that will benchmark you skills for a new job or promotion, this is the one for you. Also available at Level 4
Price displayed excludes VAT
ETA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering
Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering (MME) is a work based vocational qualification. You will need to be employed in this sector and be able to provide evidence through the use of video, pictures and work product.
NVQ Level 3 Electrical and Electronic Engineering
NVQ Diploma in Electrical and Electronic is a work based vocational qualification. You will need to be employed in this sector and be able to provide evidence through the use of video, pictures and work product.
Level 4 Diploma in Fire Safety (Fire Inspector)
Get qualified as a Level 4 Fire Safety Auditor/Inspector
