HL Deb 12 March 2003 vol 645 cc184-5WA
Baroness Blatch

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Over what period in weeks is a student expected, on average, to achieve an NVQ level 4 in (a) careers, (b) youth work and (c) social work. [HL1883]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Skills (Baroness Ashton of Upholland)

There are NVQ level 4 qualifications currently available in the areas of advice and guidance, community justice and community work. Although there is no fixed time period for achievement of an NVQ, level 4 NVQs are often embedded within a structured professional development programme. Candidates are therefore expected to complete NVQs in these areas within a reasonable period for a professional qualification; for example, two to three years.