Vocational Qualifications explained
What are Vocational Qualifications?
Vocational Qualifications (VQs) are nationally recognised, work-based qualifications designed around industry-approved standards.
They outline the practical skills and knowledge required for specific job roles across a wide range of sectors. These standards are developed in collaboration with professionals from each industry, ensuring that VQs reflect real workplace expectations and demonstrate proven competence in a chosen field.
How assessment works
To achieve a Vocational Qualification (VQ), you must demonstrate that you meet the assessment criteria and learning outcomes through clear, workbased evidence.
The assessment process is a shared responsibility between you, your assessor, and the Vocational Qualification Assessment Centre (VQAC) at The Open University. It begins once you’ve submitted your registration agreement. If there are any concerns about your current role or the suitability of your chosen qualification, the VQ Centre will be in touch.
Early in the process, you’ll work with your assessor to identify any training or development needs. Together, you’ll agree on how your evidence will be assessed over time.
Assessment may involve direct observation of your work by your assessor or an expert witness, alongside a review of your portfolio and other supporting evidence. The process is flexible and tailored to your experience, with recognition given for recent, relevant work, typically within the past two years, provided you remain competent in those areas.
Study remotely with expert support
With The Open University’s unique style of supported distance learning, you’ll study at home and in the workplace, at times that suit you. This approach, known as ‘Open Learning’, gives you the flexibility to complete tasks at your own pace, while still receiving regular support from your assessor and our team.
Throughout your qualification, you'll have dedicated guidance from an assessor who will provide feedback, answer questions and support your progress via phone or online. You’ll also receive help from the Vocational Qualification Assessment Centre (VQAC), along with support from your line manager or workplace supervisor.
Most qualifications include workplace observations, where your assessor will visit to see you in action. You’ll also have access to the VQLearner Home website, packed with helpful resources to support your learning journey.
Support from The Open University
When you choose to complete your Vocational Qualification with The Open University, you’re supported every step of the way. From the moment you register, our dedicated team at the Vocational Qualification Assessment Centre (VQAC) is on hand to guide you.
You’ll work closely with an experienced assessor who provides regular feedback, answers your questions, and helps you stay on track. You’ll also have access to helpful resources via the VQLearner Home platform, as well as support from your line manager or workplace supervisor. Whether you're at home, at work, or on the move, you’re never on your own.
Step-by-Step: how to get started
Choose your qualification
You’ll work with The Open University to select the right qualification and level based on your current role and experience.
Follow your assessment plan
Your qualification is structured around a series of assessment plans. Each plan may cover one or more units and include a variety of assessment methods.
Gather your evidence
Begin collecting evidence that demonstrates your competence in your job. This could include written work, records, photos, videos, or witness statements. A mix of evidence types is encouraged.
Upload evidence to your e-Portfolio
All written and digital evidence is uploaded to your secure e-portfolio. You can attach supporting files such as screenshots, documents, recordings, and more.
Receive assessment and feedback
Your assessor will review your evidence, map it to the relevant units, and provide clear, constructive feedback on each submission.
Internal and external quality assurance
Your work is reviewed by internal quality assurers, and the full process is audited by external quality assurers to ensure consistency and standards.
Certification
Once you’ve successfully completed all required units, The Open University will claim your certificate from the awarding organisation.
Who are VQs for?
Vocational Qualifications are ideal for people who want to gain formal recognition for the skills and knowledge they already use in the workplace. They’re particularly suited to:
- Professionals currently in work or on secondment
- Individuals in voluntary roles with relevant responsibilities
- Employers looking to upskill their workforce
- Those seeking practical alternatives to traditional academic routes
VQs are available at different levels, making them suitable for a wide range of roles, from entry-level to experienced professionals looking to develop further.
Benefits of a Vocational Qualification
A Vocational Qualification offers real value, both personally and professionally. Key benefits include:
- Learn while you work – No need to take time off; gain a qualification through your current role.
- Industry recognition – VQs are nationally recognised and based on real workplace standards.
- Career progression – Demonstrating competence can open the door to new roles or responsibilities.
- Flexible learning – Study in your own time, with full support from your assessor and The Open University.
- Practical focus – Assessment is based on what you do in your job, not written exams.
Whether you're looking to grow in your current role or take the next step, a VQ gives you the tools to succeed.
Your e-portfolio: Tracking progress
Your e-portfolio is a secure online folder that helps you stay organised and monitor your progress throughout your qualification. It contains:
- Your personalised assessment plans
- Written evidence you’ve produced
- Supporting attachments such as documents, images, or recordings
- Feedback from your assessor on each piece of evidence
This central hub keeps everything in one place, making it easy to track your development and see how you're progressing toward your qualification.
Policies and requirements
These Open University-wide documents are also relevant to you:
Contact us
If you need further information about anything related to Vocational Qualifications, you can contact the VQ team directly:
You can email us.
Or Chat to us using the ‘Contact us’ button on this page.
If you would prefer to speak to one of our VQ advisors, you can leave a message on our answer phone service and someone will be call you back to answer your query. You can do this by calling 01908 653774, or +44 (0) 1908 653774 if calling from outside the UK. It may take up to 2 working days to receive a response depending on volumes of requests received. Please remember to leave your name and contact details so we can answer your query.
Please also feel free to browse our frequently asked questions in the meantime.
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