NVQs are work-related, competence-based qualifications that reflect the skills and knowledge you need to do a job effectively. NVQs represent national standards recognised by employers throughout the country. NVQs are qualifications for work: they show that you can actually do a job, and not simply that you know how to do it in theory.

The central feature of NVQs is the National Occupational Standards (NOS) on which they are based. NOS are statements of performance standards that 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 that underpins competent performance.