Information about Ofqual and NDAQ

What and who is Ofqual?

Ofqual regulates general and vocational qualifications; in addition they recognise, monitor and audit awarding organisations.

What is the National Database of Accredited Qualifications (NDAQ )?

The NDAQ (previously known as the National Qualifications Framework (NQF)) sets out levels at which qualifications can be recognised. The purpose is to help learners make an informed decision about the qualifications they need. Learners will be able to compare the levels of different qualifications and identify a clear progression route for their chosen career.

An individual level within the NDAQ highlights the learning achievements needed to obtain an accredited qualification recognised at that level, within the industry that the learner chooses.

Attached to this page is a table which shows the equivalence of levels in Southern Ireland and Scotland.

The NDAQ is comprised of nine levels (Entry Level – Level 8), for England, Wales and Northern Ireland. All qualifications accredited within the framework will have a level.

What are level descriptors?

Level descriptors describe the range of generic outcomes that are characteristic to each level. These outcomes are listed under three areas:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Application and action
• Autonomy and accountability

Level descriptors integrate vocational, occupational, academic and professional achievements, as well as those relating to personal achievements. The descriptors are also intended to provide a reference framework for determining the level of a unit or qualification and are used as a tool by professionals, such as ourselves, when developing new qualifications.