NVQ in Democratic Services
Overview
NVQs in Democratic Services confirm that holders of the qualification possess the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out the various functions of their role in line with the National Occupational Standards (NOS).
Staff may already be well qualified academically but they do not necessarily have the skills and knowledge specific to Democratic Services. Achieving the qualification confirms they are able to do the job to the standard expected by their employer and the wider community.
The Qualifications
There are two NVQs for people working in Democratic Services, both awarded by the Open University Awarding Body. The Level 3 NVQ is designed for Committee Administrators and Member support staff who may be relatively new to their posts and have fairly limited responsibilities. The Level 4 NVQ has been designed for more experienced Committee Administrators and Senior Practitioners with some management responsibilities.
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The National Standards for Democratic ServicesThe standards have been developed by Democratic Service staff and managers across the UK. They can also be used as part of the recruitment and induction process for staff working in Democratic Services. You can download a copy of the standards for the NVQ here 
822Kb.The NOS have also been recently updated and were agreed in January 2008. Download a copy of these standards here 689Kb.New qualifications in Democratic Services, potentially a Certificate and a Diploma are now being developed. For further information, please contact Sue Keogh.
Working with SEE
SEE are one of six accredited Assessment Centres in England and have a good record of supporting candidates to achieve their NVQ. At his last visit to SEE, John Austin, the External Verifier for the Open University said it is "A very well run centre achieving positive results."
The model we use is dependent on a work-based Assessor being in place to support the candidate.
The costs are as follows:
Level 3 £1,600 + VAT
Level 4 £1,700 + VAT
Assessor Award £750 + VAT
This includes registration and certification, induction, all materials, support visits and two workshops a year plus telephone and email support.
For further information contact Sue Keogh.