Level 3 Certificate Assessing Vocational Achievement

These assessment qualifications are designed for individuals currently working in, or aiming to enter, roles involving the assessment of learners. They are suitable for those conducting assessments in a wide range of learning environments, including Further Education (FE), Adult Continuing Learning, the Third Sector, and other workplaces. The qualifications apply to all occupational sectors and cover both accredited and non-accredited learning.

The course includes six underpinning knowledge sessions for Unit 301, followed by workshops, tutorials, and practical assessments for either Unit 302 or Unit 303, depending on your chosen pathway.

If you are currently working in a role which involves assessing others, or would like to secure employment in this area, this qualification will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need.

This course is designed for practitioners who assess knowledge and skills in vocational subjects. You will learn to apply a variety of assessment methods both in real work environments and simulated settings.

In the work environment, assessment methods include observation, examining work products, oral questioning and discussion, using witness testimony, learner statements, and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

In simulated environments, you will use skills tests, oral and written questions, assignments, projects, case studies, and RPL.

The course covers three key units:

Unit 301
A knowledge-only unit designed for those who need to understand assessment processes but are not currently practicing as assessors, such as aspiring assessors or quality managers. This unit carries 3 credits.

Unit 302
A practical unit focused on assessing competence in the workplace. It covers methods such as observation, examining work products, oral questioning, witness testimony, learner statements, and RPL. This unit is worth 6 credits.

Unit 303
A practical unit for assessing achievement in vocational settings like classrooms or workshops. Assessment methods include simulated environment assessments, skills tests, oral and written questions, assignments, projects, case studies, and RPL. This unit carries 6 credits.

The qualification is flexible and can be tailored to your individual needs. Assessments take place both in your workplace and at college, using assignments, short answer questions, observations, and professional discussions to help you build a strong portfolio.

The course typically runs between 6 and 12 months. You will be assessed through assignments and written questions, and your TAQA tutor will observe and assess your practice in the workplace on at least four occasions. You will also have regular one-to-one tutorials with your tutor to s

After completing this course, you could progress on to the Level 4 Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice award to expand your skills and knowledge further.

The assessment planning and observations are conducted in realistic work environments, allowing you to apply your skills directly in vocational settings. You will be expected to assess vocational skills, knowledge, and understanding as part of practical, work-based learning.

We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if required, as well as a Wellbeing Team that is on hand to offer guidance, support and help when needed. Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college.

Click here for learning support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/learning-support

Click here for finance support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/financial-support

Here at Warrington & Vale Royal College we have a team of dedicated, experienced staff who can share their extensive knowledge and skills with you. Learning in a friendly and inclusive environment, you will be fully supported to achieve your goals.

To undertake the practical units (Unit 302 and Unit 303), you will need access to two learners to work with during your training. Additionally, you must have a countersigning assessor or mentor to support you throughout the course, as well as access to the quality assurer responsible for the programme you are enrolled in.

This applies to both accredited and non-accredited qualifications. If you are following standard operating procedures within an organisation, a robust quality assurance system must be in place, as the quality assurer needs to be actively involved in the assessment process.

Please ensure you complete the learning agreement prior to your interview.

For information on funding please contact Learner Services on 01925 494400 or email learner.services@wvr.ac.uk

There are no additional costs associated with this course, but you may wish to purchase the course book Achieving your TAQA Assessor & Quality Assurer Award by Ann Gravells.