In the active leisure and learning sector vocationally related qualifications (VRQs) are highly valued by employers. They include, for example:

• national governing body coaching and officiating qualifications
• fitness-related qualifications
• Playwork related qualifications.

VRQs cover almost every industry sector, at every level. They are offered by a large number of awarding bodies and often range from broad subject areas to specialist qualifications designed for a particular sector.

In many cases, suites of qualifications are available, allowing progression through different levels. A new Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) has been launched, which will replace the current National Qualifications Framework completely from the end of 2010.

Like the current system, the QCF covers all sectors and all levels of qualifications (now entry level to level 8), but all qualifications on the QCF will also:

• have a credit value to indicate the size of the qualification
• determine each qualification as an award, certificate or diploma depending on its size.

In some cases, credits achieved in one piece of learning can be used towards a completely different qualification.
This is particularly attractive for many people within the sport and active leisure industry, such as:

• part-time workers
• volunteers
• those looking to use their skills and knowledge in a different field.

Between now and the end of 2010, a wide range of new vocational qualifications will be available on the QCF within the active leisure and learning sector, specifically designed to meet the needs of the sector and the principles of the QCF.

More information about the new QCF can be found at: www.qca.org.uk/qcf. Information about qualifications within the active leisure and learning sector and on the QCF can be found at: www.ndaq.org.uk.