NVQs, the work-related, competency-based qualifications, are not just any certifications. They are developed by industry, commerce, and education representatives and approved by the UK’s Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual). These qualifications reflect the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a job, serving as a strong indicator of your competence in the work the NVQ represents.
NVQs are based on UK-approved National Occupational Standards. These standards are statements of performance that describe what competent people in a particular occupation are expected to be able to do and know. National Occupational Standards define an occupation’s main aspects, including current best practices, the ability to adapt to future requirements, and the knowledge and understanding underpinning competent performance. NVQs range from Level 1 (Basic) to Level 5 (Senior Management).
EnergyTech provides NVQ training up to Level 2 within the 2-year full-time program, defined within the UK National Qualifications Framework as:
‘Competence which involves the application of knowledge and skills in a significant range of varied work activities, performed in a variety of contexts. Some of the activities are complex or non-routine, and there is some individual responsibility and autonomy. Collaboration with others, through membership of a work group or team, may often be a requirement.’
Performing Engineering Operations is an efficient, competence-based qualification. It forms the basis of the Modern Apprenticeship program for oil and gas technicians in the UK. It is a program designed for school and college leavers entering the petrochemical industry. The qualification’s learning goals are based on occupational standards that apply across a range of engineering disciplines, and at EnergyTech, delivery will be tailored to the energy sector.
The NVQ in Performing Engineering Operations is an internationally recognized qualification currently provided to major energy companies, including in the Middle East, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, and Saudi Arabian Chevron.
Students on all six Technical Specialty Award programs will complete the same six core subjects and obtain an NVQ Level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations. While the Drilling Services pathway students will then start an IADC Certificate in Drilling Program. These specialist units account for approximately two-thirds of the Mechanical and Electrical Maintenance programs. The NVQ Certificate includes a full list of the unit options taken by students, so that future employers and trainers will have a clear understanding of their competency.
