SVQs are work-based qualifications available to people of all ages. As a sector skills council, the SSSC develops SVQs in partnership with industry and awarding bodies. SVQs assess skills, knowledge and values in relation to a specific job role or range of job roles.
SVQs are made up of units derived from National Occupational Standards (NOS). There are core and optional units and you can choose areas of study most suited to your role. Our NOS Navigator is the best way of exploring the units, including those which are common across the frameworks.
If you are working in a role and need to achieve a qualification it is likely you will work towards an SVQ. Your employer must support you to achieve a qualification if it is a requirement of your registration. This responsibility is in the SSSC Codes of Practice for Social Service Workers and Employers.
When you are ready to start your SVQ your employer will help you register with a training provider. This might be a college, or an independent or internal training centre. If you want to find training providers in your area see the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) website.
The key SVQs for workers in social services are:
- SVQ Social Services and Healthcare at SCQF levels 6, 7, and 9
- SVQ Social Services (Children and Young People) at SCQF levels 6, 7, and 9
- SVQ Care Services Leadership and Management at SCQF level 10.
SVQs are designed to promote flexibility and progression. For example, if you have an SVQ Social Services and Healthcare you can get credit towards the SVQ Social Services (Children and Young People) at the same level.
Hear from Kenny and Helen at Sense Scotland about what studying for a qualification meant to them.