EAL (Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited)

Apprenticeships offer learners a way of gaining nationally recognised qualifications whlist working and earning a wage.  Off the job training is normally provided through day release to a college or training provider, with the job specific skills being gained through working and training alongside experienced staff on a day-to-day basis.

Each Apprenticeship framework combines a range of qualifications, including:

• knowledge and understanding through VRQs or Technical Certificates (England, Wales and Northern Ireland only)
• work-based competence through an NVQ or SVQ
• essential skills such as maths, communication, information technology, and personal learning and thinking skills
• employment rights and responsibilities.

NVQs are competence qualifications and are delivered through on-the-job training.  NVQs are assessed through a learner's portfolio of evidence which proves their knowledge and ability to perform specific tasks, plus one-to-ones where an assessor watches the learner perform work-related tasks.  NVQs are based directly on the National Occupational Standards defined by Sector Skills Councils and industry employers.

Available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland as standalone qualifications, NVQs are also key components of Apprenticeship frameworks.  Many competence qualifications accredited on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) include 'NVQ' in the title.

SVQs are competence qualifications which are recognised in Scotland. Like NVQs, they are also based directly on National Occupational Standards set by Sector Skills Councils and employers.  SVQs are assessed through a learner’s portfolio of work-based evidence.  EAL's SVQs are currently being updated for the new Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).

VRQs are predominantly taught programmes delivered in a classroom or workshop setting.  These qualifications are based on National Occupational Standards and provide the underpinning knowledge to help learners achieve a related NVQ.  VRQs prepare learners for further learning and the workplace by offering the practical and academic knowledge and skills required in a particular job.  Assessment often combines internal written or practical assignments with external written or onscreen tests.

Technical Certificates are VRQs or knowledge qualifications that are recognised within Apprenticeship frameworks in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. They are closely linked to National Occupational Standards and give learners the underpinning knowledge and understanding that are required to complete an NVQ.

Technical Certificates are not currently recognised in Scotland.

Key Skills qualifications remain available for apprentices in England to gain transferable skills in application of number, communication, and information and communication technology.   Wider Key Skills are open to learners across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.  These cover improving own learning and performance, problem solving, and working with others.  The qualifications are assessed through a combination of multiple-choice exams and evidence gathered in a portfolio.

Functional Skills qualifications cover the fundamental practical skills in English, mathematics and information and communication technology (ICT) for learners and apprentices in England.  The qualifications focus on applying these skills in real life situations, and feature assessments with task based questions.

These qualifications show the ability to master the skills needed in education, training, work and life in general.  The suite covers application of number, communication, and information and communication technology (ICT) for learners and apprentices in Wales.  As these qualifications are a method of demonstrating competence, it is recommended that they are embedded in everyday workplace activities or other programmes of learning.

Basic skills qualifications cover adult literacy and adult numeracy for learners involved in a wide range of programmes both in and out of the workplace.  Their purpose is to improve confidence in these areas, giving learners the ability to progress in education, training and work as well as using these skills effectively in their personal lives.