Industry seeks NVQ assessors

A pilot scheme for the NVQ has been developed by the optical industry, the Science Engineering, Manufacturing Technology Alliance and the Learning & Skills Council.
NVQ organiser Gordon Jones said that three assessment centres had been established for the qualification, and more than half the required number of candidates enrolled. A fourth centre in the north of England was expected to be accredited soon and the hunt for assessors stepped up.
There are two NVQs available. One at level two is for operators and technicians and a second at level three for senior operators and supervisors.
The qualifications cover all aspects of spectacle and contact lens manufacture and, as with all NVQs, assessment is conducted in the workplace and there are no examinations.
'NVQ assessment is carried out on a part-time basis and assessors are paid. This work would suit those working in the industry or those who have recently retired,' said Jones.
Anyone interested should call Richard Smith at SEMTA on 0207 222 0464.
An NVQ in optical retailing is expected to be approved next month and assessors will be needed to support it.