“SQA has played a key role in developing SVQs over the past 25 years
and we continuously review them to ensure that they remain relevant.”
Liz McGrath, Head of Qualifications Portfolio
Management at SQA, said: “The 25th
anniversary of SVQs is significant for the
country and for SQA. We are proud to provide
this wide range of vocational qualifications
to the people and businesses of Scotland —
including some that are very specialized and
which other awarding organisations do not
offer. We are committed to supporting business
right across the country and in all areas of
the economy.
“The big advantage with SVQs is that they
provide employers and employees with
what they need to succeed throughout their
working lives. Because they are focused in the
workplace, SVQs have the flexibility to keep
pace with the needs of the modern workplace.
They are available at a range of levels of
difficulty — ensuring they meet all needs —
from those just starting out in an industry to
those who have years of experience.
“SQA has played a key role in developing SVQs
over the past 25 years and we continuously
review them to ensure that they remain
relevant. Their content and how people
are asked to demonstrate competences
encourages self-reflection and improvement
and has kept pace with what employers
really need.”
Liz continued: “SVQs are recognised as a great
option for anyone wanting to start in or build
a career in many, many industries. In particular
they can be a passport for young people into
work. The Scottish Government’s Developing
Young Workforce strategy has already kickstarted a number of interesting new ways
young people can benefit from SVQs. SQA
is working with colleges, training providers
and schools to see where SVQs can take
young people.”
So what does the future hold for this stalwart
of the vocational skills system in Scotland?
that the years to come will see SVQs continue
to develop with the needs of employers.
“As long as Scotland needs skilled workers
and growing companies there will be a role for
SVQs. At SQA we see this as very much the first
25 years of SVQs.”
The importance of staff qualifications has
never been clearer. It’s proven that trained
and qualified people are more motivated
and more productive, making the businesses
they work for more competitive and more
profitable, whatever the size, whatever the
sector. It’s critical, however, to ensure that the
qualifications are relevant to your business and
right for your future.
MYSECTOR
There’s no simple answer to what kind of
qualification will benefit you as every industry
and every business is different. SQA can help
you identify the way ahead for you. Every
company working with SQA benefits from their
own dedicated Regional Manager; an expert
advisor they can trust. It’s a simple idea, but
one that works perfectly: provide one main
point of contact who takes time to get to know
our customers and their business. The more
customers know about what SQA will bring to
their business, the more they will benefit.
To find out more about SQA’s range of
qualifications, visit www.sqa.org.uk/mysector
Meet SQA’s Regional team in Scotland —
www.sqa.org.uk/businessdevelopment
Liz concluded: “Many businesses continue to
see education and training for their workforce
as a valuable investment and SVQs can be an
integral part of their business strategy. We think
Business Development T: 0303 333 0330 E: [email protected] W: www.sqa.org.uk/businessdevelopment