new QCF qualifications in early years and playwork

The Qualification and Credit Framework (QCF) is a new framework for creating and accrediting qualifications. It provides more flexible routes to gaining full qualifications and enables progression to be achieved in smaller steps through the accumulation of credit.

A new database helps to track the achievement of credit and provide learners with an online record of their success, allowing them to accumulate credits across different providers and awarding organisations.

In early years and playwork, the QCF has led to the development of new qualifications to replace NVQs – although learners already working towards NVQs will be fully supported to completion and their qualifications will remain full and relevant for EYFS and Ofsted purposes.

The new level 2 Certificate / level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People's Workforce consists of a mixture of practice (assessed through workplace observation) and knowledge. PBD has launched eQual Learning, a suite of highly interactive e-learning courses, to help learners achieve the knowledge which they need to succeed. Learners can work through the material in their own time and at their own pace, with support from our assessors provided both face to face and remotely by email and Skype.