NVQ Masterclass [Part 10] - Take the fast track!

Welcome to the final article on National Vocational Qualifications. Over the past ten months we have looked at what is involved in achieving a qualification at Level 2 and 3 in installation and maintenance of security systems.

In this article I will explain how the NVQ at Level 2 in Fire, Security and Emergency Systems can be obtained via a fast track route for those who already have the experience and competencies required.

On average a Level 2 qualification can take between 12 to 24 months and a Level 3 the same. Theoretically there is no time limit to complete an NVQ, and if a company wishes a candidate to complete it faster than this and they have the resources to concentrate on that individual, it can be completed in time scales of just several months.

(Modern Apprentices do, however, follow a course of study that has a fixed time schedule.)

Route to success
The following information explains how a candidate can achieve the fast track route and a flow chart is provided to identify the processes.

We all know that the security systems industry is a fast changing environment.

Security systems is a fast changing environment … Qualifications for installers will become an increasingly important issue in the future

New legislation for the industry, European Standards, and the ACPO Policy are just a few of the significant changes here now or on on the horizon.

Qualifications for installers will become an increasingly important issue in the future. A 'fast track route' to the Level 2 award has been specifically designed to assist the busy experienced installer to gain the award with the minimum of red tape.

Are you eligible?
You must be able to answer 'yes' to the following four questions:

Have you worked in the installation of intruder alarms for a minimum of three years?

Do you have experience on a variety of installations?

Do you have the support of your employer confirming your competence and employment record, access to records and sites for assessment purposes?

Is this the only training programme leading to an NVQ which you would be following?

What else do you have to do?

Outline your employment history

Briefly describe the jobs you have selected to demonstrate your competencies

Demonstrate your employer's support

Record your evidence using the evidence record booklet supplied.

How are you assessed?
An independent assessor will assess that your level of skill and knowledge meets the National Standards, which are the basis of the award.

A ‘fast track route’ to the Level 2 award has been specifically designed to assist the busy experienced installer to gain the award with the minimum of red tape

He will do this by:
Examining the records relating to the jobs you have selected to ensure that you have the level of installation competence required.

Visiting you at work on an installation to observe you working.

Talking to you about jobs you are doing to check your understanding and level of knowledge about intruder alarm subjects.

How long does it take to complete … and what is the cost?

It takes approximately 12 – 15 weeks to complete

Up to two candidates per company £300 each, includes assessment and certification

3 – 5 candidates per company £275 each, includes assessment and certification

6 or more candidates per company £235 each, includes assessment and certification.

When can I start?
You can start at any time. For full details, phone SITO on 01905 20004 or write to SITO, Security House, Barbourne Road, Worcester WR1 1RS.