HC Deb 18 December 1996 vol 287 c689W
Ms Mowlam

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what has been the percentage change in the number of vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland between 1993–94 and 1994–95. [8713]

Mr. Ancram

Between 1993–94 and 1994–95, there was a decline of 15 per cent. in the number of all types of vocational awards—national vocational qualifications and general national vocational qualifications—made by the main awarding bodies to candidates in Northern Ireland.

As regards GNVQs only, however, there was an increase in the number of students in schools and colleges in Northern Ireland gaining full qualifications. The percentage increases from 1993–94 to 1994–95 were as follows:

  • Foundation level: 200
  • Intermediate level: 28
  • Advanced level: 316.