mum
Well-Known Member
NVQ....who?
There is so much confusion about qualifications in the nail industry that maybe a Frequently Asked Questions would be useful. (The specific info is relevant to the nail qualifications and may be different in other sectors)
1. What is an NVQ?
This is a National Vocational Qualification. It is a modern qualification that is designed for occupations that require practical skills e.g. retailing, hairdressing, floristry, plumbing etc. etc. It is encouraged by the government and lots of funding is available for adults to gain these qualifications.
As it is skill based, competence must be proved and this is done by ongoing assessments rather than an exam based procedure (as with academic subjects e.g. law, accountancy etc.)
NVQs use the National Occupational Standards as the basic requirements for qualification.
2. What are the National Occupational Standards?
These Standards are created by people experienced within the relevant industry sector. They break down practical skills and the supporting theoretical knowledge into small steps so the process of the skill is clear and each individual step can be learnt, understood and assessed.
The Standards are written in a very specific and structured format, which can be a bit confusing until you understand what they are getting at.
They are owned by the relevant Industry Authority or NTO (National Training Organisation), in this case HABIA (Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority). They license them to approved Awarding Bodies and, in the case of HABIA, to other countries.
3. What are Awarding Bodies?
These are organisations that provide the syllabus, the process, the verification of assessments and the final certificated qualification. Examples of these are City & Guilds and VTCT (Vocational Training Charitable Trust).
These both provide NVQs which is exactly the same qualification wherever it comes from. That is, an NVQ or NVQ Unit is the same qualification whatever name is on the top of the certificate.
They also provide qualifications that are non-NVQs, along with many other Awarding Bodies. Some of these are based on the Occupational Standards, like VTCT Diploma in Advanced Nail Techniques and have similar assessment procedures. Others, like CIBTAC, ITEC and Edexcel for example, have non-NVQs that are sometimes exam based.
There is nothing unusual about this situation. Many other industries are the same.
There is differing opinion on which is best. Practical skills certainly lend themselves to ongoing assessment rather than rely on one final test and, for many, final exams are very stressfull.
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4. What are assessments?
With this type of qualification (NVQ) assessment is ongoing. During the learning process, assessments are a good way of making sure the skills are being developed correctly. When the learning process is complete, formal assessments take place and there is always a minimum number required by the Awarding Body (based on the Standards) At this stage, the student should be capable of providing the services to clients.
There are 3 areas of assessments:
a.. observation of the practical skills
b. written tests on knowledge relevant to the skill
c . oral questioning
The formal practical assessments must follow the Industry Authority requirements and, for nails, they must be carried out in a real working environment i.e. a salon and with real clients (not friends, family or other students). There is always a minimum number of these, e.g. 3 different clients or different skin/nail conditions. These are done by Assessors and overseen by Internal Verifiers who are, in turn, overseen by External Assessors. The Assessor observes the treatment and records what has been seen in respect of the Standards requirements. Every one of the aspects of the practical skills (called Performance Criteria) must be actually seen to be done correctly, efficiently and safely. This must be seen using a variety of products, tools, treatments and conditions (e.g. nail types and conditions, men and women). This is called the Range in the Standards.
There are some criteria (specified by the Standards) that can be proved by simulation, e.g. role play, or by oral questioning.
These assessments are usually followed by oral questioning that should demonstrate to the Assessor a good understanding of the theory. This is also the opportunity to ask the student about situations that do not occur very often but a technician needs to know how to deal with. E.g. what if questions: what if this client had a broken arm? what if this client has an allergic reaction?
Written assessments are carried out at various times during the learning time and, now, there is a formal written test set by the Awarding Bodies. It is usual that 100% knowledge is required.
All of these assessments are recorded and kept in the candidates own portfolio of evidence.
5. No one can fail an NVQ !!!!!
There is a misconception about t his. As there is not a final examination a pass or fail is not relevant. What is relevant is that fact that if, during one of the last assessments, the student does something wrong or does not demonstrate a sufficient understanding, they are not yet competent at the skill.
The minimum requirements of the Awarding Bodies relate to perfect treatments supported by complete understanding. If, for example, the minimum number of practical observations required is 3 and, during one of those the candidate does something that the Assessor believes to be incorrect, the candidate will have the opportunity to explain their reasons during the oral questioning. If the explanation is unsatisfactory that observation will have to be repeated at another time.
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6. What are Assessors, Internal and External Verifiers?
Assessors are those that are qualified and experienced in the relevant job and are qualified as a Vocational Assessor. They are not necessarily teachers but often are. The current requirements are that Assessors must have 5 years relevant experience (i.e. working in a salon) and must update this experience for a certain number of hours each year. This is to keep up with new developments and techniques and also their own skills, (especially if they only work in a college situation). They work for the training provider (college etc.)
Internal Verifiers are Assessors with an extra qualification. They work within the training establishment and check the assessment process making sure the requirements of the Awarding Body are met.
External Verifiers work with the Awarding Body and are, literally, the external check that the process is correct. They represent the Awarding Body and are the final stage in the steps to gaining the qualification.
7. What is a Portfolio of Evidence?
Gaining this type of qualification depends entirely on proving your competence in the skill and the supporting understanding. The way this is done is by collecting evidence as proof. This is collected together in a logical and structured way so assessors and verifiers can look through or find a specific piece of evidence. This is how they make sure all the requirements have been met
Usually, when a specific requirement has been met, it is ticked off in a log book supplied by the Awarding Body and reference made so it can be found easily. This continues until, basically, all the boxes have been ticked.
There are many forms of evidence but all must, again, fit the criteria laid down by the Awarding Body which usually makes sure it is authentic and relevant. The evidence can be the results of all the various assessments; it could be genuine client record cards; it could be before and after pictures; case studies; assignments; certificates and diplomas of previous and relevant achievements.
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8. Do I have to do a training course to get an NVQ?
In theory, no. In practice there are not many training providers who provide this service. The reason for this is usually financial. For example, FE colleges get their income from extensive training courses and they need to concentrate on this aspect. The same applies to private colleges and supplier training.
The concept of an NVQ is competence in a specific skill. It is not a syllabus for a training course; it is a result of proving competence. Therefore, an experienced technician should be able to prove their competence by meeting all the criteria of the Standards without any further training, that is if they have been taught correctly and safely in the beginning.
The most straight forward method of doing this is taking the minimum number of practical and written assessments and including these in a portfolio along with other supporting evidence of previous achievements and proof of doing the job successfully, e.g. client record cards, client testimonials, line managers reports etc.
I understand that the SACs provide this service and a few private training providers. Do remember, however, assessments can be time consuming and training providers do need to earn money. This must be paid for as we all need to make a living! There is a great deal of funding available for this type of qualification but it is different in every Local Authority. CAB, Business Link etc. should be able to provide some info on where to go to access these funds.
9. How can I be sure failed assessments are not just a way of selling courses?
This is obviously a delicate subject and one I know occurs. This need not be the case. The Standards and assessment requirements are very clear (if you know how to read and understand them!) Any candidate (one who is registered with an Awarding Body and working towards an NVQ) who feels they have met the criteria but been unfairly assessed has access to a very structured Appeals Procedure. This Procedure should be explained to them before any assessments take place and every Candidate should not be made to feel that using it compromises their position!
It can be a difficult situation for anyone but it is essential to be confident enough to use the fail-safe mechanism to ensure the Standards are used ethically and unscrupulous training providers are not allowed to take advantage of the confusion that lack of understanding generates.
Just remember, the Awarding Bodies do not want any ineffective or unscrupulous training providers connected with their organisation. They have rigourous performance levels to meet in order to keep their status. These come from both the Government and the NTO (in this case HABIAThey cannot know about unethical behaviour if they are not informed!
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10. What about my Unit 19? Does it still count?
In a word, yes. It always will.
Until August 04, there were a couple of Units relevant to the nail industry in the Beauty Therapy NVQs. Manicure/pedicure was in Level 2 and artificial nails was in Level 3. Those that have these Units will never loose them or be unqualified.
As an example: many (!) years ago I took my O Levels at 16. This was the relevant qualification at that time. For many years, the qualification for 16 year olds has been the GCSE. The qualifications on my CV are very definitely OLevels. I have not had to subsequently take GCSEs. Therefore, the qualification at the time is the relevant one and can never be taken away. However, as the change for this industry is so recent, there are many who want to have the current qualification. This is great but not essential. The current qualifications have a much greater depth and we all know this can only be good for the industry.
The UK nail industry has its own evolution and history. This has led to a very wide variety of skill levels, confusion between facts and marketing stories and what is an acceptable minimum standard of work.
A more in depth qualification structure can only help to lift the professional industry into service sector that generates respect and confidence from the consumer.
Years ago it was not at all unusual to have hair breaking from a bad perm or green hair from bleaching. This is now very rare and, on the whole, the hairdressing industry is trusted. This is wholly down to basic standards and the industry, voluntarily, accepting that good basic training is absolutely essential to its future. There are now very, very few working hairdressers who did not start out gaining their NVQ; then they went on to bigger and better things but with a solid base to work from.
11. What is a nail NVQ?
August 04 saw the introduction of full and genuine NVQs for nails. Before that it was just a couple of units in Beauty Therapy. In my opinion, there are still a few adjustments to be made but it is on its way.
An NVQ is a collection of units and there are different levels of NVQs. Remembering that NVQs are skill based (not academic based) a Level 1 is usually a level that relates to a junior or an assistant (there is not one for nails but there is for beauty and hair). Level 2 is a skilled person, qualified to provide the more basic treatments. Level 3 is a skilled person qualified to provide the more advanced treatments with the possibility of being in a more supervisory or managerial position.
Although it is not always a requirement to have Level 2 to do Level 3 (it is for a Modern Advanced Apprenticeship) as Units and Levels are self contained, it is practical, within the sector, to do so.
All NVQs have a few Units that relate to general areas that apply to several sectors. In this case, subjects such as salon health and safety and reception duties relate to beauty and hair (specifics for individual treatments will be covered in the specific units). These will be required along with the skill units. There is always a collection of mandatory units for the level along with a choice of optional units. It is easy to achieve a pure nails NVQ by choosing the relevant optional unit.
The Nail Services NVQs are broken down as follows:
Level 2 (I havent given them their full titles for simplification. The full structure can be found at www.habia.org)
Mandatory Units
-G1 Health and safety: this is identifying and evaluating health and safety risks in the workplace for both you and your clients and ensuring you reduce those risks.
-G6 Selling: having knowledge of and promoting additional services and products
-G8 Personal performance: work as part of a team and improve personal effectiveness
-BT 7 Manicure: provide manicure treatments that improve the appearance of the nails and skin, improve the condition of nails and skin (following an extensive consultation), advise the client.
-BT8 Pedicure: as for manicure
-BT12 Extend and maintain nails: this unit just uses the fibre system (called wrap!). It covers extending nails with tips, overlaying with a fibre system and repairing natural nails. It also covers maintenance of the artificial nails.
-BT13 Basic nail art: this is nail art such as hand painting, polish secures etc.
Optional Units (one must be chosen)
-G4 Reception duties (the pure nails option): working in the reception area, booking appointments, dealing with enquiries, taking payments
-BT4 Basic facials
-BT5 Eyelash and eyebrow treatments
-BT6 Waxing
-BT9 Basic make-up
-BT10 Promote make up activities
-BT14 Pierce ears
-BT15 Assist with spa treatments
Level 3
Mandatory units
-G1 Health and safety: same as Level 2 (it does not have to be retaken)
-G6 Selling: as Level 2
-G11 Business effectiveness: monitor and use resources effectively and meet targets.
-BT22 Artificial nails: apply artificial nail using all 3 systems; tips and overlay and sculpting
-BT23 Maintenance and repair: maintain artificial nails in all 3 systems and repair damaged nails; remove artificial nails
-BT24 Advanced nail art: design provide airbrushing, coloured gels and acrylics, 3D nail art, embedding, cut-outs.
Optional units (2 Units to be chosen)
-BT25 Design and create nails outside the salon (an interpretation!): e.g. weddings, fashion shows, photographic images. (The pure nails NVQ)
-BT27 Fashion and photographic make up
-BT30 UV tanning treatments
-BT31 Self tanning treatments
-G12 Check how successful a business idea may be (pure nails)
-G13 Business law and regulations with regard to your business (pure nails)
Although it is difficult to relate NVQs to academic qualifications, a Level 3 is regarded as a 2-3 A Level achievement and a Level 4 (not available in nails or any other relevant skill area, more towards business, management etc.) or Modern Advanced Apprenticeship is pre degree.
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12. How long does it take to get an NVQ?
How long is a piece of string??!!
In theory, there is no set time scale. In practice, many beginners courses (e.g. FE colleges) have a definite time scale. It is commonly accepted that a hair or beauty therapy course at FE college to Level 3 will take 2 years full time. This is based on the academic year or approx. 36 weeks. It is possible to achieve a Level 3 at a private school, genuinely full time, in 6 months. Many short courses are available at FE colleges, resulting in specific Units (e.g. manicure) or non-NVQ qualifications (e.g. VTCT certificates) in 12-17 weeks part time or evening courses. Private providers will have their own structure.
13. Can I take just 1 or 2 units?
Yes. The Units are self contained, meaning that areas relevant to all treatments/services are included in each unit. For example, the anatomy and physiology knowledge is in every skill unit, but.....if you have done it once you dont have to do it again (if units from the current Standards are being taken. The old Standards are different so the gaps need to be filled).
The evidence just needs to be in your Portfolio to prove it.
The achievement of a few Units does not an NVQ make. An NVQ means a full Level. The old Unit B19 was 1 unit within the Beauty Therapy Level 3. Anyone with just that Unit does not have an NVQ.
This does not necessarily matter as just some Units may be appropriate for the individual.
When taking a skill unit e.g. Manicure (BT7), it is worth taking the health and safety unit (G1) with it. This makes sense as the safety of yourself and your clients is important. This is the same unit for both levels and all skill units, so, if youve done it with, say, manicure, then later take an artificial nails unit, you wont have to do it again.
The artificial nails unit in Level 2 (BT12) is complete, i.e. includes maintenance and removal. The artificial nails unit i Level 3 (BT22) is not complete. There is a separate unit for maintenance, repair and removal (BT23). These really should be taken together for very obvious reasons!
14. I want to do a liquid and powder unit. How can this be done?
As a single system, it cant!
The only single system in a unit is the fibre (wrap) system in Level 2 (BT12). If you want to take a liquid and powder unit you will need to take BT22 and 23 in Level 3 and this requires competency in all 3 systems.
Apparently, the reason for this was that beauty therapists and manicurists, traditionally use a simple wrap system to repair natural nails. Therapists, on the whole, arent very keen on artificial nails so by having this unit it provides a more traditional route into artificial nails.
My opinion on this differs from this decision. I dont follow or agree with this reasoning. In the industry as it exists today, people should have the opportunity to choose which system they want to use as a single system. It is appropriate that a beginner to the industry starts with just 1 but why should this be fibre only? Why not liquid and powder or UV gel?
If Unit BT12 required competency in 1 system the therapists can choose fibre (if this is indeed the situation) and technicians can choose whatever they like. At the moment, a technician who wants a qualification in, say, liquid and powder, has to spend a very long time learning and proving competency in all 3 before gaining the qualification.
As competency in all systems is a good situation for advanced technicians, it is appropriate that this requirement is in Level 3. I just wish there was the choice at Level 2. I am hoping that this will be one of the first things to change when the Standards come up for review as I think how it is now will make it difficult for some training providers and financially prohibitive for many technicians.
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15. When will NVQs become mandatory?
Mandatory for what? There is little likelihood that NVQs will become mandatory. At the present time, the Government expects industry sectors to police themselves. Good, basic standards are expected and encouraged. This is why funding is available for organisations, such as HABIA, to research and recognise the various sectors and provide relevant standards for them to work to. It is also why extensive funding is available for individuals to achieve the qualifications that are based on the National Occupational Standards.
NVQs are not mandatory in other sectors, including hairdressing. It has just become the accepted norm in many.
16. Why should I need formal qualifications?
Local Authorities require certain qualifications for salon licensing. At this time, salons must have a license from an LA in order to trade. This usually includes
a formal qualification. The area has been a little hazy but, now there is a National Occupational Standard and NVQs, this will be what the LAs will latch onto. There are different requirements for services provided at Level 2 and Level 3 and each individual LA will have their own ideas. What is definite, is that the LAs of the whole of the UK and further, will look towards HABIA to provide them with the direction and information route they need to go down.
Insurance companies often require formal qualifications to be eligible for their policies. Some underwriters allow their brokers (the company that actually sells the policy) to monitor the eligibility of the policy holders. This situation does not guarantee the policy holder with the cover they presume they have. There could be a situation where the policy holder claims on the policy but discovers that the small print requirements of the underwriter has not been met by the broker (e.g. documentary proof of relevant qualification) so the policy is void.
17. What are formal qualifications?
Formal qualifications are, in general, awarded by organisations that are not product linked, they conform to a process that can be verified and follow the accepted industry standards.
Many non-NVQ qualifications are based on the National Occupational Standards. They just follow their own assessment/exam process.
This does not detract from supplier based learning. Historically, this has been the only education available in the nail industry and has great value. Things are now moving on and non-branded training will be the norm (as with hair and beauty). This is what is going to add credence and professionalism to the industry. Company courses will be the icing on the cake. Practical skill cannot be carried out using fresh air. Every training course will need to use a range of products. It is a proven fact that students stay loyal to the brand used during training. The change comes when, after qualification, they get a job in a salon and then do a course provided by the brand used by the salon in order to learn brand techniques and product knowledge and understanding.
In our service area, hairdressing has been around the longest (beauty therapy is a relatively recent sector and nails even younger). NVQs are not mandatory in hairdressing. But.....any self respecting hairdresser and training provider would not dream of achieving anything other than an NVQ.
This qualification may be lifted by names in the industry. E.g. Vidal Sassoon may teach hairdressers from beginners. They teach them to NVQ standard when they gain their formal qualification but they also teach them their own personal stamp: the Sassoon stamp. This builds on the basics (NVQ) and takes the learners to a specific level of achievement that is recognised the world over.
In beauty, the well known brands (e.g. Clarins, Dermalogica, Decleor, Elemis etc. etc.) may provide basic teaching (NVQ or similar) but the extra part is their own stamp. Many beauty suppliers only provide post graduate training. That is, the NVQ or similar, is required before any brand training.
If you look at the 3 sectors we are concerned with: hair, beauty and nails. Hair has been around for the longest. It has sorted itself out into the accepted basic qualification (NVQ) and certain names have put their own stamp on the basics. From a professional product point of view, Wella, LOreal and Schwartzkopf are the market leaders in high quality use of their professional ranges (colour and perms) and they provide post graduate training in their own brands and techniques. Names provide training in the essential extras in expertise: e.g. Vidal Sassoon, Tony & Guy, Charles Worthington, Nicky Clarke etc.
In beauty, there are many basic standards to build on: NVQs (from several Awarding Bodies), non NVQs (e.g. VTCT, City & Guilds, ITEC, Edexcell, CIBTAC, CIDESCO). Then there are several brand leaders that then put their own stamp, e.g. Clarins, Dermalogica etc. (I dont want to miss brands out so this is just an example). It is not obvious, at this time, names that take beauty therapy a step further other than those that have become known in the slightly alternative therapies (Bharti Vyas being just one example).
Nails is a long way behind. We have only just got a basic qualification! Lets see who comes through as the professional brand leader (a la Wella, LOreal, Scwartzkopf, Clarins etc.) and lets see who comes through as a name that adds the little something.
Most of what Ive written here is fact. If it is opinion Ive said so. In my opinion, the nails industry needs to look at the hair industry as a model and adapt it, not mimic it, as it is different. But I genuinely believe this is a better model than beauty. Nails is an instant gratification service, like hair and is in salons with lots of people, chat, music and fun. It is often fashion led and tends to be a more creative skill. Beauty is private, calm and usually clinical.
The industry needs to embrace a basic standard and build on it. It may not be right yet but it is up to the industry itself to make it right!
There is so much confusion about qualifications in the nail industry that maybe a Frequently Asked Questions would be useful. (The specific info is relevant to the nail qualifications and may be different in other sectors)
1. What is an NVQ?
This is a National Vocational Qualification. It is a modern qualification that is designed for occupations that require practical skills e.g. retailing, hairdressing, floristry, plumbing etc. etc. It is encouraged by the government and lots of funding is available for adults to gain these qualifications.
As it is skill based, competence must be proved and this is done by ongoing assessments rather than an exam based procedure (as with academic subjects e.g. law, accountancy etc.)
NVQs use the National Occupational Standards as the basic requirements for qualification.
2. What are the National Occupational Standards?
These Standards are created by people experienced within the relevant industry sector. They break down practical skills and the supporting theoretical knowledge into small steps so the process of the skill is clear and each individual step can be learnt, understood and assessed.
The Standards are written in a very specific and structured format, which can be a bit confusing until you understand what they are getting at.
They are owned by the relevant Industry Authority or NTO (National Training Organisation), in this case HABIA (Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority). They license them to approved Awarding Bodies and, in the case of HABIA, to other countries.
3. What are Awarding Bodies?
These are organisations that provide the syllabus, the process, the verification of assessments and the final certificated qualification. Examples of these are City & Guilds and VTCT (Vocational Training Charitable Trust).
These both provide NVQs which is exactly the same qualification wherever it comes from. That is, an NVQ or NVQ Unit is the same qualification whatever name is on the top of the certificate.
They also provide qualifications that are non-NVQs, along with many other Awarding Bodies. Some of these are based on the Occupational Standards, like VTCT Diploma in Advanced Nail Techniques and have similar assessment procedures. Others, like CIBTAC, ITEC and Edexcel for example, have non-NVQs that are sometimes exam based.
There is nothing unusual about this situation. Many other industries are the same.
There is differing opinion on which is best. Practical skills certainly lend themselves to ongoing assessment rather than rely on one final test and, for many, final exams are very stressfull.
[break]
4. What are assessments?
With this type of qualification (NVQ) assessment is ongoing. During the learning process, assessments are a good way of making sure the skills are being developed correctly. When the learning process is complete, formal assessments take place and there is always a minimum number required by the Awarding Body (based on the Standards) At this stage, the student should be capable of providing the services to clients.
There are 3 areas of assessments:
a.. observation of the practical skills
b. written tests on knowledge relevant to the skill
c . oral questioning
The formal practical assessments must follow the Industry Authority requirements and, for nails, they must be carried out in a real working environment i.e. a salon and with real clients (not friends, family or other students). There is always a minimum number of these, e.g. 3 different clients or different skin/nail conditions. These are done by Assessors and overseen by Internal Verifiers who are, in turn, overseen by External Assessors. The Assessor observes the treatment and records what has been seen in respect of the Standards requirements. Every one of the aspects of the practical skills (called Performance Criteria) must be actually seen to be done correctly, efficiently and safely. This must be seen using a variety of products, tools, treatments and conditions (e.g. nail types and conditions, men and women). This is called the Range in the Standards.
There are some criteria (specified by the Standards) that can be proved by simulation, e.g. role play, or by oral questioning.
These assessments are usually followed by oral questioning that should demonstrate to the Assessor a good understanding of the theory. This is also the opportunity to ask the student about situations that do not occur very often but a technician needs to know how to deal with. E.g. what if questions: what if this client had a broken arm? what if this client has an allergic reaction?
Written assessments are carried out at various times during the learning time and, now, there is a formal written test set by the Awarding Bodies. It is usual that 100% knowledge is required.
All of these assessments are recorded and kept in the candidates own portfolio of evidence.
5. No one can fail an NVQ !!!!!
There is a misconception about t his. As there is not a final examination a pass or fail is not relevant. What is relevant is that fact that if, during one of the last assessments, the student does something wrong or does not demonstrate a sufficient understanding, they are not yet competent at the skill.
The minimum requirements of the Awarding Bodies relate to perfect treatments supported by complete understanding. If, for example, the minimum number of practical observations required is 3 and, during one of those the candidate does something that the Assessor believes to be incorrect, the candidate will have the opportunity to explain their reasons during the oral questioning. If the explanation is unsatisfactory that observation will have to be repeated at another time.
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6. What are Assessors, Internal and External Verifiers?
Assessors are those that are qualified and experienced in the relevant job and are qualified as a Vocational Assessor. They are not necessarily teachers but often are. The current requirements are that Assessors must have 5 years relevant experience (i.e. working in a salon) and must update this experience for a certain number of hours each year. This is to keep up with new developments and techniques and also their own skills, (especially if they only work in a college situation). They work for the training provider (college etc.)
Internal Verifiers are Assessors with an extra qualification. They work within the training establishment and check the assessment process making sure the requirements of the Awarding Body are met.
External Verifiers work with the Awarding Body and are, literally, the external check that the process is correct. They represent the Awarding Body and are the final stage in the steps to gaining the qualification.
7. What is a Portfolio of Evidence?
Gaining this type of qualification depends entirely on proving your competence in the skill and the supporting understanding. The way this is done is by collecting evidence as proof. This is collected together in a logical and structured way so assessors and verifiers can look through or find a specific piece of evidence. This is how they make sure all the requirements have been met
Usually, when a specific requirement has been met, it is ticked off in a log book supplied by the Awarding Body and reference made so it can be found easily. This continues until, basically, all the boxes have been ticked.
There are many forms of evidence but all must, again, fit the criteria laid down by the Awarding Body which usually makes sure it is authentic and relevant. The evidence can be the results of all the various assessments; it could be genuine client record cards; it could be before and after pictures; case studies; assignments; certificates and diplomas of previous and relevant achievements.
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8. Do I have to do a training course to get an NVQ?
In theory, no. In practice there are not many training providers who provide this service. The reason for this is usually financial. For example, FE colleges get their income from extensive training courses and they need to concentrate on this aspect. The same applies to private colleges and supplier training.
The concept of an NVQ is competence in a specific skill. It is not a syllabus for a training course; it is a result of proving competence. Therefore, an experienced technician should be able to prove their competence by meeting all the criteria of the Standards without any further training, that is if they have been taught correctly and safely in the beginning.
The most straight forward method of doing this is taking the minimum number of practical and written assessments and including these in a portfolio along with other supporting evidence of previous achievements and proof of doing the job successfully, e.g. client record cards, client testimonials, line managers reports etc.
I understand that the SACs provide this service and a few private training providers. Do remember, however, assessments can be time consuming and training providers do need to earn money. This must be paid for as we all need to make a living! There is a great deal of funding available for this type of qualification but it is different in every Local Authority. CAB, Business Link etc. should be able to provide some info on where to go to access these funds.
9. How can I be sure failed assessments are not just a way of selling courses?
This is obviously a delicate subject and one I know occurs. This need not be the case. The Standards and assessment requirements are very clear (if you know how to read and understand them!) Any candidate (one who is registered with an Awarding Body and working towards an NVQ) who feels they have met the criteria but been unfairly assessed has access to a very structured Appeals Procedure. This Procedure should be explained to them before any assessments take place and every Candidate should not be made to feel that using it compromises their position!
It can be a difficult situation for anyone but it is essential to be confident enough to use the fail-safe mechanism to ensure the Standards are used ethically and unscrupulous training providers are not allowed to take advantage of the confusion that lack of understanding generates.
Just remember, the Awarding Bodies do not want any ineffective or unscrupulous training providers connected with their organisation. They have rigourous performance levels to meet in order to keep their status. These come from both the Government and the NTO (in this case HABIAThey cannot know about unethical behaviour if they are not informed!
[break]
10. What about my Unit 19? Does it still count?
In a word, yes. It always will.
Until August 04, there were a couple of Units relevant to the nail industry in the Beauty Therapy NVQs. Manicure/pedicure was in Level 2 and artificial nails was in Level 3. Those that have these Units will never loose them or be unqualified.
As an example: many (!) years ago I took my O Levels at 16. This was the relevant qualification at that time. For many years, the qualification for 16 year olds has been the GCSE. The qualifications on my CV are very definitely OLevels. I have not had to subsequently take GCSEs. Therefore, the qualification at the time is the relevant one and can never be taken away. However, as the change for this industry is so recent, there are many who want to have the current qualification. This is great but not essential. The current qualifications have a much greater depth and we all know this can only be good for the industry.
The UK nail industry has its own evolution and history. This has led to a very wide variety of skill levels, confusion between facts and marketing stories and what is an acceptable minimum standard of work.
A more in depth qualification structure can only help to lift the professional industry into service sector that generates respect and confidence from the consumer.
Years ago it was not at all unusual to have hair breaking from a bad perm or green hair from bleaching. This is now very rare and, on the whole, the hairdressing industry is trusted. This is wholly down to basic standards and the industry, voluntarily, accepting that good basic training is absolutely essential to its future. There are now very, very few working hairdressers who did not start out gaining their NVQ; then they went on to bigger and better things but with a solid base to work from.
11. What is a nail NVQ?
August 04 saw the introduction of full and genuine NVQs for nails. Before that it was just a couple of units in Beauty Therapy. In my opinion, there are still a few adjustments to be made but it is on its way.
An NVQ is a collection of units and there are different levels of NVQs. Remembering that NVQs are skill based (not academic based) a Level 1 is usually a level that relates to a junior or an assistant (there is not one for nails but there is for beauty and hair). Level 2 is a skilled person, qualified to provide the more basic treatments. Level 3 is a skilled person qualified to provide the more advanced treatments with the possibility of being in a more supervisory or managerial position.
Although it is not always a requirement to have Level 2 to do Level 3 (it is for a Modern Advanced Apprenticeship) as Units and Levels are self contained, it is practical, within the sector, to do so.
All NVQs have a few Units that relate to general areas that apply to several sectors. In this case, subjects such as salon health and safety and reception duties relate to beauty and hair (specifics for individual treatments will be covered in the specific units). These will be required along with the skill units. There is always a collection of mandatory units for the level along with a choice of optional units. It is easy to achieve a pure nails NVQ by choosing the relevant optional unit.
The Nail Services NVQs are broken down as follows:
Level 2 (I havent given them their full titles for simplification. The full structure can be found at www.habia.org)
Mandatory Units
-G1 Health and safety: this is identifying and evaluating health and safety risks in the workplace for both you and your clients and ensuring you reduce those risks.
-G6 Selling: having knowledge of and promoting additional services and products
-G8 Personal performance: work as part of a team and improve personal effectiveness
-BT 7 Manicure: provide manicure treatments that improve the appearance of the nails and skin, improve the condition of nails and skin (following an extensive consultation), advise the client.
-BT8 Pedicure: as for manicure
-BT12 Extend and maintain nails: this unit just uses the fibre system (called wrap!). It covers extending nails with tips, overlaying with a fibre system and repairing natural nails. It also covers maintenance of the artificial nails.
-BT13 Basic nail art: this is nail art such as hand painting, polish secures etc.
Optional Units (one must be chosen)
-G4 Reception duties (the pure nails option): working in the reception area, booking appointments, dealing with enquiries, taking payments
-BT4 Basic facials
-BT5 Eyelash and eyebrow treatments
-BT6 Waxing
-BT9 Basic make-up
-BT10 Promote make up activities
-BT14 Pierce ears
-BT15 Assist with spa treatments
Level 3
Mandatory units
-G1 Health and safety: same as Level 2 (it does not have to be retaken)
-G6 Selling: as Level 2
-G11 Business effectiveness: monitor and use resources effectively and meet targets.
-BT22 Artificial nails: apply artificial nail using all 3 systems; tips and overlay and sculpting
-BT23 Maintenance and repair: maintain artificial nails in all 3 systems and repair damaged nails; remove artificial nails
-BT24 Advanced nail art: design provide airbrushing, coloured gels and acrylics, 3D nail art, embedding, cut-outs.
Optional units (2 Units to be chosen)
-BT25 Design and create nails outside the salon (an interpretation!): e.g. weddings, fashion shows, photographic images. (The pure nails NVQ)
-BT27 Fashion and photographic make up
-BT30 UV tanning treatments
-BT31 Self tanning treatments
-G12 Check how successful a business idea may be (pure nails)
-G13 Business law and regulations with regard to your business (pure nails)
Although it is difficult to relate NVQs to academic qualifications, a Level 3 is regarded as a 2-3 A Level achievement and a Level 4 (not available in nails or any other relevant skill area, more towards business, management etc.) or Modern Advanced Apprenticeship is pre degree.
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12. How long does it take to get an NVQ?
How long is a piece of string??!!
In theory, there is no set time scale. In practice, many beginners courses (e.g. FE colleges) have a definite time scale. It is commonly accepted that a hair or beauty therapy course at FE college to Level 3 will take 2 years full time. This is based on the academic year or approx. 36 weeks. It is possible to achieve a Level 3 at a private school, genuinely full time, in 6 months. Many short courses are available at FE colleges, resulting in specific Units (e.g. manicure) or non-NVQ qualifications (e.g. VTCT certificates) in 12-17 weeks part time or evening courses. Private providers will have their own structure.
13. Can I take just 1 or 2 units?
Yes. The Units are self contained, meaning that areas relevant to all treatments/services are included in each unit. For example, the anatomy and physiology knowledge is in every skill unit, but.....if you have done it once you dont have to do it again (if units from the current Standards are being taken. The old Standards are different so the gaps need to be filled).
The evidence just needs to be in your Portfolio to prove it.
The achievement of a few Units does not an NVQ make. An NVQ means a full Level. The old Unit B19 was 1 unit within the Beauty Therapy Level 3. Anyone with just that Unit does not have an NVQ.
This does not necessarily matter as just some Units may be appropriate for the individual.
When taking a skill unit e.g. Manicure (BT7), it is worth taking the health and safety unit (G1) with it. This makes sense as the safety of yourself and your clients is important. This is the same unit for both levels and all skill units, so, if youve done it with, say, manicure, then later take an artificial nails unit, you wont have to do it again.
The artificial nails unit in Level 2 (BT12) is complete, i.e. includes maintenance and removal. The artificial nails unit i Level 3 (BT22) is not complete. There is a separate unit for maintenance, repair and removal (BT23). These really should be taken together for very obvious reasons!
14. I want to do a liquid and powder unit. How can this be done?
As a single system, it cant!
The only single system in a unit is the fibre (wrap) system in Level 2 (BT12). If you want to take a liquid and powder unit you will need to take BT22 and 23 in Level 3 and this requires competency in all 3 systems.
Apparently, the reason for this was that beauty therapists and manicurists, traditionally use a simple wrap system to repair natural nails. Therapists, on the whole, arent very keen on artificial nails so by having this unit it provides a more traditional route into artificial nails.
My opinion on this differs from this decision. I dont follow or agree with this reasoning. In the industry as it exists today, people should have the opportunity to choose which system they want to use as a single system. It is appropriate that a beginner to the industry starts with just 1 but why should this be fibre only? Why not liquid and powder or UV gel?
If Unit BT12 required competency in 1 system the therapists can choose fibre (if this is indeed the situation) and technicians can choose whatever they like. At the moment, a technician who wants a qualification in, say, liquid and powder, has to spend a very long time learning and proving competency in all 3 before gaining the qualification.
As competency in all systems is a good situation for advanced technicians, it is appropriate that this requirement is in Level 3. I just wish there was the choice at Level 2. I am hoping that this will be one of the first things to change when the Standards come up for review as I think how it is now will make it difficult for some training providers and financially prohibitive for many technicians.
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15. When will NVQs become mandatory?
Mandatory for what? There is little likelihood that NVQs will become mandatory. At the present time, the Government expects industry sectors to police themselves. Good, basic standards are expected and encouraged. This is why funding is available for organisations, such as HABIA, to research and recognise the various sectors and provide relevant standards for them to work to. It is also why extensive funding is available for individuals to achieve the qualifications that are based on the National Occupational Standards.
NVQs are not mandatory in other sectors, including hairdressing. It has just become the accepted norm in many.
16. Why should I need formal qualifications?
Local Authorities require certain qualifications for salon licensing. At this time, salons must have a license from an LA in order to trade. This usually includes
a formal qualification. The area has been a little hazy but, now there is a National Occupational Standard and NVQs, this will be what the LAs will latch onto. There are different requirements for services provided at Level 2 and Level 3 and each individual LA will have their own ideas. What is definite, is that the LAs of the whole of the UK and further, will look towards HABIA to provide them with the direction and information route they need to go down.
Insurance companies often require formal qualifications to be eligible for their policies. Some underwriters allow their brokers (the company that actually sells the policy) to monitor the eligibility of the policy holders. This situation does not guarantee the policy holder with the cover they presume they have. There could be a situation where the policy holder claims on the policy but discovers that the small print requirements of the underwriter has not been met by the broker (e.g. documentary proof of relevant qualification) so the policy is void.
17. What are formal qualifications?
Formal qualifications are, in general, awarded by organisations that are not product linked, they conform to a process that can be verified and follow the accepted industry standards.
Many non-NVQ qualifications are based on the National Occupational Standards. They just follow their own assessment/exam process.
This does not detract from supplier based learning. Historically, this has been the only education available in the nail industry and has great value. Things are now moving on and non-branded training will be the norm (as with hair and beauty). This is what is going to add credence and professionalism to the industry. Company courses will be the icing on the cake. Practical skill cannot be carried out using fresh air. Every training course will need to use a range of products. It is a proven fact that students stay loyal to the brand used during training. The change comes when, after qualification, they get a job in a salon and then do a course provided by the brand used by the salon in order to learn brand techniques and product knowledge and understanding.
In our service area, hairdressing has been around the longest (beauty therapy is a relatively recent sector and nails even younger). NVQs are not mandatory in hairdressing. But.....any self respecting hairdresser and training provider would not dream of achieving anything other than an NVQ.
This qualification may be lifted by names in the industry. E.g. Vidal Sassoon may teach hairdressers from beginners. They teach them to NVQ standard when they gain their formal qualification but they also teach them their own personal stamp: the Sassoon stamp. This builds on the basics (NVQ) and takes the learners to a specific level of achievement that is recognised the world over.
In beauty, the well known brands (e.g. Clarins, Dermalogica, Decleor, Elemis etc. etc.) may provide basic teaching (NVQ or similar) but the extra part is their own stamp. Many beauty suppliers only provide post graduate training. That is, the NVQ or similar, is required before any brand training.
If you look at the 3 sectors we are concerned with: hair, beauty and nails. Hair has been around for the longest. It has sorted itself out into the accepted basic qualification (NVQ) and certain names have put their own stamp on the basics. From a professional product point of view, Wella, LOreal and Schwartzkopf are the market leaders in high quality use of their professional ranges (colour and perms) and they provide post graduate training in their own brands and techniques. Names provide training in the essential extras in expertise: e.g. Vidal Sassoon, Tony & Guy, Charles Worthington, Nicky Clarke etc.
In beauty, there are many basic standards to build on: NVQs (from several Awarding Bodies), non NVQs (e.g. VTCT, City & Guilds, ITEC, Edexcell, CIBTAC, CIDESCO). Then there are several brand leaders that then put their own stamp, e.g. Clarins, Dermalogica etc. (I dont want to miss brands out so this is just an example). It is not obvious, at this time, names that take beauty therapy a step further other than those that have become known in the slightly alternative therapies (Bharti Vyas being just one example).
Nails is a long way behind. We have only just got a basic qualification! Lets see who comes through as the professional brand leader (a la Wella, LOreal, Scwartzkopf, Clarins etc.) and lets see who comes through as a name that adds the little something.
Most of what Ive written here is fact. If it is opinion Ive said so. In my opinion, the nails industry needs to look at the hair industry as a model and adapt it, not mimic it, as it is different. But I genuinely believe this is a better model than beauty. Nails is an instant gratification service, like hair and is in salons with lots of people, chat, music and fun. It is often fashion led and tends to be a more creative skill. Beauty is private, calm and usually clinical.
The industry needs to embrace a basic standard and build on it. It may not be right yet but it is up to the industry itself to make it right!