I am an NVQ assessor and independent verifier with 35 years' experience in the childcare sector. I feel saddened that NVQ levels 2 and 3 are not recognised as a qualification that needs a great deal of the learner's own work. Not all nursery placements needed for the learners to achieve their qualification respect the fact that they need to supply the learner with the necessary witness testimonies and also be prepared to sign and date work to prove authenticity. They also need the time to attend college and complete the work set to enable to gain underpinning knowledge.
Some nurseries take advantage of the learners as cheap labour, asking them to work as many hours as possible without a realistic wage. But the majority work as a team and provide the learner with evidence and support them to achievement.
It is so important that nurseries provide good quality training. This will influence and give good practice for future practitioners, which should provide a quality service to parents and carers.
Well done to all those who achieve their qualification. I and many others do appreciate the hard work needed to achieve this award.
Janet E Mowinski, learning co-ordinator childcare, Bournemouth and Poole College
- Letter of the Week wins £40 worth of children's books.
- Send your letters to ...
The Editor, Nursery World, 174 Hammersmith Road, London W6 7JP
letter.nw@haymarket.com 020 8267 8402.
