From September 2010, all current qualifications will be replaced by the Qualifications Credit Framework. The QCF is a new framework for recognising and accrediting qualifications and is at the heart of a major reform of vocational qualifications.

The aim is for the system and qualifications to be more accessible and relevant for learners and employers needs. The new qualifications will be based on the same national occupational standards as the current qualifications. Any new qualifications will be useful for shaping learning, career progression and CPD.

The names of qualifications and units will be more consistent across awarding bodies. Learners will be able to accumulate credit and transfer it to allow more flexible progression. Learners with certified achievements outside of the QCF and who have the skills and knowledge for a unit will not have to repeat learning and will be ‘exempt’ from certain units. This will allow learners to build on what they have already learnt and progress.