Choosing the Right Assessor Qualification
There are lots of different types of Assessor qualifications, and it can be hard to work out which is the right one for you. The requirements for Assessor roles are extremely varied depending on both the employer and the qualification itself. However, there are two main things you need in order to become an Assessor:
- Occupational Competence
- An Assessor Qualification
We have already looked at Occupational Competence in detail, so we wanted to spend some time explaining each of the Assessor qualifications that we offer.
Assessor Qualifications
If you have been assessing for some time, you will be familiar with the traditional course names. For those who are new to assessing, let’s explore these quickly (we won’t bore you with the history too much we promise).
In the 90s if you wanted to train to become an assessor, you would complete the D32 and D33 units. In 2001, these were replaced by the A1 and A2 Awards. Then fast-forward to 2010, and the A1 and A2 Awards were replaced by ‘TAQA‘ (Training Assessment and Quality Assurance).
Current Assessor Qualifications
So now you have an understanding of the foundations, let’s take a look at the modern-day qualifications in more detail.
Within the TAQA suite, there are 4 different assessor qualifications. These qualifications are made up of one, a combination of, or all 3 of the following units:
- Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment – Unit 1
- Assess Occupational Competence in the Work Environment – Unit 2
- Assess Vocational Skills, Knowledge and Understanding – Unit 3.
Now let’s run through what each qualification involves.
Level 3 Award in Understanding the Principles & Practices of Assessment (UPPA)
As you have probably already worked out from the information above, this qualification is a standalone unit (Unit 1 from the list). It is a knowledge-based unit which covers all of the theory behind vocational assessment.
This qualification won’t actually allow you to carry out any assessments. It is more for a qualified assessor to complete in order to update their CPD record.
Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (AVRA)
This qualification is a step up from UPPA as it will allow you to carry out some assessments. These assessments must only take place outside of the workplace. This course covers Units 1 and 3, so you can still assess the vocational knowledge, skills and understanding. You would only be able to assess learnings in learning environments though, such as classrooms, workshops and online systems.
Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment (ACWE)
This essentially allows you to do the opposite of what the AVRA does. With this qualification, you would only be able to assess learners within a work environment. You have probably guessed this already, but this qualification covers Units 1 and 2. This course is ideal for people who are looking to become in-house assessors for a company that they currently work with.
Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA)
This is like the ‘holy grail’ of Assessor qualifications. CAVA qualifies you to carry out all forms of assessment mentioned above, as it covers all of the units. This is the only course that will make you a fully-qualified Assessor. Most Assessor vacancies will stipulate that the candidate is either holding or working towards CAVA or the ACWE. To give yourself the best possible chance when you are up against other candidates, having a CAVA qualification will certainly look more appealing.
Which assessor qualification is for me?
If you still need some help deciding, you may find this video from our Head of Marketing, Sam, useful!
We hope this has helped you to choose the right Assessor qualification for you. If you would like any more help or advice please give our team a call on 01205 805 155.
