England and Northern Ireland

Knowledge Qualifications (VRQs/Principles)

These are nationally-recognised, vocationally-related qualifications (VRQs) which provide the essential knowledge to do a job.

Many Level 2/3 VRQs are an essential component of the Sector Skills Council’s Apprenticeship framework.

 

Who are they suitable for?

  • Those who choose a vocational route
  • Those in full or part-time further education
  • Those seeking employment, who therefore do not have access to competence qualifications (e.g. VCQ or NVQ)
  • Those undertaking an Apprenticeship with a knowledge qualification (VRQ) requirement

 

How do you get one?

  • On a full or part-time basis at an IMI approved centre
  • Through training, and undertaking practical and online assessments
  • Typically each level is completed in an academic year

 

Latest qualification, accreditation updates and developments

Qualifications extended in England December 2023