Understanding NVQs, QCF, and RQF qualifications in England

17th February 25

If you’ve ever looked into vocational qualifications in England, you might have come across NVQs, QCF, and RQF. But what do these terms mean? How do they affect your education and career prospects? And what has replaced NVQs?

Over the years, vocational qualifications have evolved to make learning more structured and flexible. This blog will break down these qualification frameworks in simple terms, explain what happened to NVQs, and help you understand how things stand today.

What are NVQs, QCF, and RQF?

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)

NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) were designed to assess practical, work-based skills. Popular in sectors like health and social care, construction, and business administration, NVQs had levels from Level 1 to Level 5, allowing learners to develop their careers at their own pace.

But are NVQs being phased out? The short answer is yes. While they were widely used in the past, NVQs were replaced in 2010 by the QCF (Qualifications and Credit Framework).

Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF)

The QCF introduced a unit-based credit system, making qualifications more flexible. Learners could complete individual units and combine them into full qualifications. This system allowed people to progress more easily without having to restart their learning if they switched courses or training providers.

However, the QCF was replaced in 2015 by the RQF (Regulated Qualifications Framework).

Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF)

The RQF took over from the QCF in 2015, keeping the credit-based system but providing a clearer structure for qualification levels, ranging from Entry Level to Level 8. The biggest advantage of the RQF is that it’s regulated by Ofqual, ensuring qualifications meet high national standards.

But are RQF and NVQ the same? Not exactly. While the RQF includes workplace-based qualifications similar to NVQs, it offers a clearer and more structured learning path. This means learners can still develop practical skills but under a more modern and standardised system.

Are NVQs and QCF qualifications still valid?

NVQs

Even though NVQs were phased out, they are still recognised by employers—so if you hold one, don’t worry! As long as your NVQ was awarded by an accredited body, it remains valid. In some cases, NVQs have simply been rebranded under the RQF framework while keeping their competency-based assessments.

QCF qualifications

Like NVQs, QCF qualifications are still valid even though the framework was replaced. Many QCF qualifications automatically transferred to the RQF without any major content changes.

So, does an NVQ expire? Or a QCF? No, it doesn’t! An NVQ or QCF qualification will always hold value, even though new qualifications now fall under the RQF.

Timeline of changes

To help you understand how these qualification frameworks have evolved, here’s a quick breakdown of the major changes over the years:

Pre-2010: NVQs were the standard vocational qualification.
2010: QCF replaced NVQs, introducing a unit-based credit system.
2015: RQF replaced QCF, refining the system while keeping its flexibility.
Present day: The RQF is the standard qualification framework in England, while old NVQ and QCF qualifications remain valid.

Key differences and similarities

Each framework has had its own approach to structuring vocational qualifications. Below is a comparison to highlight their main features:

Feature	NVQ	QCF	RQF
Competency-Based Assessment	✅	✅	✅
Unit-Based Structure	❌	✅	✅
Credit Accumulation	❌	✅	✅
National Recognition	✅	✅	✅
Still Available?	❌	❌	✅

Frequently asked questions

To clear up any confusion, here are answers to some of the most common questions about NVQs, QCF, and RQF qualifications:

Can I still complete an NVQ qualification?

Many people ask, ‘Does NVQ still exist?’ and the answer is not in its original form. However, many qualifications under the RQF assess workplace competency just like NVQs did.

What replaced NVQs?

The QCF replaced NVQs in 2010, and the RQF replaced QCF in 2015.

Are NVQs still recognised by employers?

Yes. NVQs remain valid, and many employers continue to accept them, especially in sectors where practical skills are essential.

Does QCF still exist?

No, the QCF was replaced by the RQF in 2015, but previous QCF qualifications are still valid.

What is a QCF equivalent to?

The QCF was structured similarly to the RQF, so in most cases, a QCF qualification directly translates to an RQF qualification.

Did NVQs get phased out?

Do I need to upgrade my QCF qualification to RQF?

No. QCF qualifications are still recognised and valid. The transition to RQF did not invalidate previously earned qualifications.

Is RQF better than NVQ?

If you’re wondering, ‘What is the main advantage of RQF compared to QCF?’, the RQF provides a clearer qualification structure while keeping the flexibility of previous frameworks, making it easier to understand and progress in your career.

How do I know if my qualification is on the RQF?

You can check the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications to verify if your qualification is listed under RQF.

Can I complete RQF qualifications online?

Yes! Many RQF qualifications can be completed online, giving you the flexibility to study at your own pace.

Study RQF qualifications online with learndirect

Understanding the shift from NVQs to QCF to RQF can be confusing, but the key takeaway is that while older qualifications are still valid, the RQF is now the standard in England. Whether you’re starting a new career or upskilling, the RQF provides a modern and flexible way to gain industry-recognised qualifications.

Should you have any questions about your qualifications, feel free to reach out to your awarding body or check Ofqual's official register for the latest information.

If you’re looking to advance your career, why not complete your RQF qualifications online with learndirect? Explore our courses today and take the next step toward achieving your goals!

Need inspiration? Download our FREE career guide below!

Access to Higher Education