The central feature of Print NVQs is the National Occupational Standards (NOS) on which they are based. NOS are statements of performance standards which describe what competent people in a particular occupation are expected to be able to do. They cover all the main aspects of an occupation, including current best practice, the ability to adapt to future requirements and the knowledge and understanding which underpins competent performance.

The standards are developed by Standards Setting Bodies for the printing industry.

Competence which involves the application of knowledge in a significant range of varied work activities, performed in a variety of contexts. Some of these activities are complex or non-routine and there is some individual responsibility or autonomy. Collaboration with others, perhaps through membership of a work group or team, may often be a requirement.

Competences which involves the application of knowledge in a broad range of varied work activities performed in a wide variety of contexts, most of which are complex and non-routine. There is considerable responsibility and autonomy and control or guidance of others is often required.

Print NVQs are work-related, competence based qualifications.
Print NVQs reflect the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively.
Print NVQs represent national standards recognised by employers throughout the country.
If you have a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) it shows that you can do the work for which it has been awarded to national standards. It means you are competent in this kind of work.

Print NVQs are qualifications for work and show you can actually do a job, and not simply that you know how to do it in theory.

They are made up of units which describe the skills and knowledge needed to do a job effectively.

Print NVQs are achieved through assessment and training. Assessment will normally be through on-the-job observation and questioning. Candidates have to have evidence to prove they have the competence to meet the Print NVQ standards. Assessors 'sign-off' units when achieved - they test candidates' underpinning knowledge, understanding and work-based performance to make sure they can demonstrate competence in the workplace.

Assessors can be in-house (fully trained) employees or external people brought in specifically to conduct assessments. They are appointed by an approved Assessment Centre.