How to engineer a qualification

Why partnership is key to crafting the qualifications of the future.

Why partnership is key to crafting the qualifications of the future.

2 Nov 2023, 9:00

Sponsored

Pearson is joining forces with employers like Schneider Electric and a wide range of other provider stakeholders to integrate innovation and industry-relevant skills into their upcoming Engineering Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs).

These HTQs, ranging from Level 4 to Level 5, are poised to become alternatives to traditional apprenticeships and degrees. With rigorous standards set by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE), these qualifications ensure practicality and relevance to the ever-evolving job landscape.

HTQs have garnered enthusiastic support from all sides. Despite policy shifts, demand remains strong, and employers and colleges alike recognise their intrinsic value and have been investing time and finances to assure their success.

For providers, HTQs can be particularly useful in addressing skills gaps within specific sectors. From an employer perspective, according to Pearson’s recent Skills Outlook report, two-thirds (62 per cent) of business leaders are worried about finding recruits with the right skills for their vacancies. A third (36 per cent) revealed they have not expanded due to the skills gap.

David Abrahams, a Key Client Manager for Schneider Electric’s IT’s Global Operations division, has worked with Pearson to develop the new Engineering HTQs.

“We are committed to shaping the future of buildings, infrastructure and industries through innovation,” says David. “To do this, we need a steady influx of recruits who possess not only the core skills needed in this highly technical field but also the softer skills that allow them to work effectively within a team, network and flourish into leadership roles.”

Dr Sahithi Siva, Pearson’s Subject Lead for Engineering for Higher Education, currently working on Higher National product development, echoes this sentiment: “We greatly value employer participation and appreciate the commitment they make, and David has been fantastic. The process is rigorous, but the outcomes benefit everyone involved.”

Getting HTQs approved by IfATE involves mapping knowledge, skills, and behaviours, and ensuring the qualification aligns with industry standards. This process is iterative, requiring frequent feedback and amendments, followed by approval from OFQUAL and a separate submission process with IfATE. “It is a complex, lengthy process but is essential to ensure the quality and relevance of our qualifications,” states Sathithi.

Pearson is actively working to future-proof its qualification units, ensuring they remain relevant for at least the next five years. The company also developed a new space technologies Higher National qualification to deliver the space engineering technician standard, with organisations like Airbus Defence and Space and National Space Agency providing crucial feedback.

As technology progresses at a breakneck pace, Pearson believes partnership with employers and providers is vital for ensuring innovation is built into qualifications and learners acquire the hard and soft skills needed for the future and thrive in tomorrow’s industries. Pearson has recently received accreditation for HTQs in the Digital, Construction, Healthcare, Sport, Business, and Engineering sectors, and is planning to develop more HTQs in some of these key sectors. Find out more about developing and delivering HTQs with Pearson

Latest education roles from

Chief Education Officer (Deputy CEO)

Chief Education Officer (Deputy CEO)

Romero Catholic Academy Trust

Director of Academy Finance and Operations

Director of Academy Finance and Operations

Ormiston Academies Trust

Principal & Chief Executive

Principal & Chief Executive

Truro & Penwith College

Group Director of Marketing, Communications & External Engagement

Group Director of Marketing, Communications & External Engagement

London & South East Education Group

Sponsored posts

Sponsored post

Supporting the UK’s Transport Decarbonisation Plan Through Skills

The UK Government’s Decarbonising Transport: A Better, Greener Britain strategy sets a legally binding path towards a net-zero transport...

Advertorial
Sponsored post

Project power: ASDAN expands its qualifications portfolio

From 2026, ASDAN’s planned Foundation and Higher Project Qualifications will sit alongside its Extended Project Qualification[CM1] , creating a complete...

Advertorial
ATAs

Spotlight on excellence: Nominations now open for the Apprenticeship & Training Awards 2026

Nominations are open for the 2026 Apprenticeship & Training Awards, celebrating outstanding employers and providers with national recognition, a...

FE Week Reporter
Sponsored post

Funding Adult Green Skills

New sources of funding are available to finance the delivery of green skills to all learners. Government policy is...

Tyler Palmer

More from this theme

Sponsored post

Plan for change funding to drive green construction skills

The government has launched a new plan for change to address the skills deficit in the construction industry, providing...

Advertorial
Sponsored post

Reshaping the New Green Skills Landscape

The UK government is embarking on a transformative journey to reshape its skills landscape, placing a significant emphasis on...

Advertorial
Sponsored post

Safe to speak, ready to act: SaferSpace targets harassment and misconduct in education 

In an era where safeguarding and compliance are firmly in the spotlight, education providers face a growing responsibility: to...

Advertorial
Sponsored post

Screening for the cognitive needs of apprentices is essential – does it matter if the process is engaging?

Engagement should be the first priority in cognitive assessment. An engaging assessment is an inclusive assessment — when cognitive...

Advertorial

Your thoughts

Leave a Reply