QCTO

The requirement for ‘fundamental’ unit standards is a barrier to learner progress

The requirement for ‘fundamental’ unit standards within all qualifications at NQF levels 1-4 has proved to be a barrier to learner progress in some occupational contexts. How will the QCTO address this issue?

There will be three kinds of unit standards: theory/knowledge, practical and work experience standards. All of these will be the core of the qualification, and compulsory for all learners. In addition there will be specialisations. There will be no common requirement across all qualifications for fundamental unit standards.

All learners will have to achieve a foundational learning requirement in language and mathematical literacy, which represents the minimum proficiency required to engage with occupational learning materials.

The Committees of Expert Practitioners (CEPs) designing the qualification will add as part of the core any additional fundamental requirements that are necessary in the context of the specific qualification. Thus requirements for each qualification are fit- for purpose.