Performing Engineering Operations N/SVQ

N/SVQs are based on national industry standards. They recognise that candidates who have demonstrated their ability to reach the standard have the skill and associated knowledge to work safely and competently at the appropriate level in their chosen area. Those not completing the full qualification can gain a certificate for the units that they have achieved.

Overview

Traditionally, new entrants into engineering occupations, especially craft and technician, have required basic training for safety and general comprehension of engineering practices. The training was normally carried out off-the-job in a training centre equipped with industrial tools and facilities, and the training was delivered in safe conditions by qualified instructors. Every entrant into engineering needs basic understanding of safety and requirements of personal protection equipment. They should be able to recognise materials and processes, and be able to use industrial standard communication methods, such as engineering drawings.

Benefits of the Qualification

Through their pathway structure, Performing Engineering Operations N/SVQs offer employers, training providers and individual candidates the widest possible choice of engineering options to suit varied needs.

For employers the qualification can:

• provide a benchmark of employees’ skills and knowledge
• assist with recruitment and retention
• boost employee motivation and morale
• increase employee loyalty
• raise productivity and reduce rework
• improve health and safety in the workplace
• demonstrate the quality of the workforce to existing and potential customers
• stimulate employees’ desire to learn

For candidates the qualification can:

• provide the foundation for a career in engineering
• recognise competence to national occupational standards in identified areas
• prove ability to do a particular job
• contribute to the completion of an engineering apprenticeship
• lead to further development
• give a sense of achievement
• be gained on or off the job
• be completed at a time and pace to suit

Structure of the Qualification

The candidate is required to complete the mandatory assessment routes and the required number of assessment routes from their choice of pathway.

Centres will receive support material and registered candidates receive a candidate book, complete with assessment routes to record coverage of the standards.

Modern Apprenticeships are aimed at those aged 16 or above and capable of achieving a vocational qualification (VQ) at Level Two or above. The programme can be used to train existing employees or new employees. Any company in Scotland - whatever its size - can take part in the programme. Potential trainees need to get a job before they can take part in the programme. People without a job, however, can contact a local training company such as ourselves AD Services (Scotland) Ltd.