This article is part of a series covering off some key questions and areas of interest for employers. For more information, see the NZQA and Employers section.
The New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) is the official source of all quality assured qualifications and credentials in New Zealand. It provides a clear structure for understanding different levels of education and training, making it easier for employers to assess the skills and knowledge of potential employees.
Qualifications and credentials listed on the NZQCF – and the providers who deliver them – undergo quality assurance by either NZQA or Universities New Zealand. That means you can have confidence in what graduates know and can do.
Additionally people with qualifications awarded overseas can apply for an International Qualifications Assessment (IQA) from NZQA. An IQA will help translate the overseas qualification - comparing it to to an NZQCF level and qualification type. The IQA recognition outcome helps you understand how their overseas qualifications compare to New Zealand ones.
Overview of the NZQCF
The NZQCF is divided into ten levels, each representing a step in the complexity and depth of learning. These levels range from basic introductory skills to advanced, specialised knowledge. The framework covers many micro-credentials and a wide range of qualifications, including certificates, diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate qualifications.
Levels 1-3: Foundational Skills
Level 1: At this level, employees have basic skills and knowledge. They can carry out simple tasks in a highly structured context. For example, the Certificate in Foundation Skills is a Level 1 qualification, showing employees can demonstrate basic literacy, numeracy, and communication skills.
Level 2: Employees at this level (which includes NCEA Level 2) have basic factual or operational knowledge and can perform tasks with some supervision. A Level 2 qualification or credential, such as a National Certificate in Retail, indicates that the employee can handle basic customer service tasks, operate a cash register, and understand workplace safety procedures.
Level 3: At this level, employees can perform a variety of tasks independently or with limited supervision. A Level 3 qualification or credential, like a Certificate in Business Administration, suggests that the employee can manage administrative tasks, use office software, and understand basic business operations. NCEA Level 3 is at this level of the framework.
Levels 4-6: Intermediate to Advanced Skills
Level 4: Employees with a Level 4 qualification or credential have specialised knowledge and can take some responsibility for the performance of others. For instance, a National Certificate in Carpentry at Level 4 indicates that the employee can undertake building projects, read blueprints, and ensure compliance with building codes.
Level 5: At this level, employees have a broad understanding of their field and can apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. A Level 5 qualification or credential, such as a Diploma in Information Technology, suggests that the employee can develop software, troubleshoot technical issues, and manage IT projects.
Level 6: Employees with a Level 6 qualification or credential have advanced skills and can take on leadership roles. For example, a Diploma in Hospitality Management at Level 6 indicates that the employee can oversee hotel operations, manage staff, and ensure high standards of customer service.
Levels 7-10: Advanced and Specialised Knowledge
People with qualifications and credentials from Levels 7 to 10 hold more advanced, specialised knowledge, with Level 7 corresponding to a bachelor’s degree, and Level 10 to a doctorate. Employees at these levels have comprehensive knowledge and can apply it in a professional context.
The NZQCF provides a clear and structured way for employers to understand the knowledge and capabilities of potential employees. Being familiar with the different levels can help you better match candidates to job requirements and place them in the right salary band. Whether you are seeking foundational skills or advanced expertise, the NZQCF ensures that qualifications and credentials are consistent and reliable, helping to build a skilled and competent workforce in New Zealand.
For more information visit:
New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework