What is NQF?
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) is designed to provide:
- nationally recognised, consistent standards and qualifications
- recognition and credit for all learning of knowledge and skills.
NQF qualifications are quality assured and nationally recognised. Administered by the Qualifications Authority, the NQF is a way of structuring national qualifications.
The NQF is a three-pronged quality system:
- national standards are registered
- these are used by accredited organisations
- a moderation system ensures national consistency.
The NQF was developed through a two-year process of policy development and public consultation in 1990-1991.
NQF Standards and Qualifications
Each standard registered on the Framework describes what a learner needs to know or what they must be able to achieve.
- Unit standards are developed by experts in their fields
- Achievement standards are currently used only in school curriculum subjects for the National Certificate of Education Achievement
Because the standards are nationally agreed, learners' achievements can be recognised in a number of contexts. Their knowledge and skills will be transferable between qualifications and providers.
The NQF has 10 levels - 1 is the least complex and 10 the most. Levels depend on the complexity of learning. Levels 1-3 are of approximately the same standard as senior secondary education and basic trades training. Levels 4-6 approximate to advanced trades, technical and business qualifications. Levels 7 and above approximate to advanced qualifications of graduate and postgraduate standard.
NQF qualifications must meet the requirements of the New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications (The Register). For more information see qualification definitions. For a full description of NQF levels see Level descriptors.
All NQF standards and national qualifications are developed by subject experts within a Standard Setting Body (SSB).
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