Frequently Asked Questions about the N/SVQ scheme
How long will it take to do an N/SVQ with the BB?
The N/SVQ work carried out is entirely 'candidate centred' - the timing it will take to carry out the N/SVQ amounts to what time you can give to do your work. Some candidates will finish their N/SVQ sooner than others, but we encourage candidates to work to a Learning Plan with target dates set out, with the aim of completing within 12 months if possible.
Is there a cost involved?
There is a one off fee that is required; for your registration as a candidate with City & Guilds. As a candidate on one of our N/SVQs you would be required to pay 50% of the registration fee. The fee involved varies, dependant on which N/SVQ you decide to do.
What benefit is there for me to do an N/SVQ?
Once completing an N/SVQ in Youth Work or Playwork, you are national recognised as a qualified Youth Worker/Playworker - very impressive for your CV! The work that you do week in week out as a volunteer in the BB, will be recognised in a qualification! Another benefit of doing the N/SVQ, will mean that you be helping to improve the standard of Youth Work and Playwork we offer in the BB; improving your own practice, and that of the young people and children who come along to your BB Company each week.
Did you know?!
If you were to do your A1 Assessors Award, once you have gained this single Unit of work you will be able to apply for Assessor jobs as well!
What support do I get from BB?
There are many sources of support the Brigade are able to offer you when you sign up to the scheme including:
- Candidate / Assessor induction days
- Web resources, which are available to both Candidates and Assessors
- Training opportunities where a need has been identified
- Informal support and information from BB Headquarters when you need it
Who can do an N/SVQ?
These awards are open to any BB leader (and Seniors aged 16 and over). In order to gain an N/SVQ in Youth Work or Playwork you have to be working with young people or children.
BB is not the only Youth Work/Playwork setting I'm volunteering/working in. Am I able to collect evidence from these other settings towards my N/SVQ?
Yes you can! We recognise that BB is not the only setting our leaders volunteer in (or even work in); there are no restrictions to state that you can only collect evidence for the work you are carrying out in the BB.
