The New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) has begun consulting on proposed changes to the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) and its Rules.
“The NZQCF is at the heart of New Zealand’s education system, providing information about quality assured qualifications and credentials to learners, employers and international organisations,” says Eve McMahon, NZQA Deputy Chief Executive, Quality Assurance.
“The proposed changes provide an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on amendments indicated in previous consultations, along with a new diagrammatic representation of the framework which gives greater visibility to vocational skills and knowledge,” Eve McMahon says.
“Proposals also include further embedding the transferable skills of critical thinking, collaboration and communication, and showing quality assured micro-credentials on the Framework.”
“Proposed changes to NZQA’s Rules would better align the Rules with the NZQCF and support the ongoing quality and credibility of qualifications and micro-credentials listed on the NZQCF.”
“We also propose some changes to the English language requirements for international students to clarify the requirement for in-person testing, expand the range of evidence of English language that can be accepted and require providers to verify test results.”
Information about the proposals and how to provide feedback is available at www2.nzqa.govt.nz/nzqcf-and-rules-consultation (external link) – with consultation open until 11.59pm on Sunday 17 November.
Note:
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority is responsible for maintaining the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework under the Education and Training Act 2020.
New Zealand’s first National Qualifications Framework (NQF) was established in 1991, with the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) established in 2010. Changes to the NZQCF were last made in 2022.