FAQ

1. What are NVQ’s in Supply Chain Management?

NVQ’s in Supply Chain Management are a written set of Standards that apply nationally. They provide a framework setting out the activities undertaken by people within a supply chain/supply chain management role

2. Are there different NVQ standards for different levels of jobs within supply chain management?

Yes – there are 4 levels. These are known as Level 2, Level 3, Level 4 and Level 5. The level you chose is determined by the experience you have and the scope of your current role.
Level 2 standards are for those who have recently started working in a supply chain/supply chain management role or work at an administration level and perhaps are processing requisitions, placing low value purchase orders, expediting goods and services etc such as an operator clerical/admin assistant.

Level 3 standards are for those who have experience in supply chain/supply chain management and probably have a buyer or stock controller title or equivalent (though titles themselves cannot be taken as an absolute in this regard). Level 3 standards ask that you provide evidence that you CONTRIBUTE to decision taking (contrasted to Level 4 and 5 where you need to demonstrate that you TAKE decisions)

Level 4 standards are for senior practitioners in supply chain management or materials management. You will need to demonstrate that you TAKE decisions in supply chain/ supply chain management or materials management such roles could be: analysts, consultants, head of department, manager, planner, researcher, senior officer, specialist manager

Level 5 standards are for those at Strategic level such chief executive, director, senior manager, strategic manager.

3. How do NVQ’s work?

NVQ’s are a competence based development process. This means that to successfully achieve an NVQ you need to demonstrate your competency and ability to do your job to a National Standard.

Each of the standards are divided into Units and you select the appropriate units that reflect what you do in your job.

Competence is demonstrated by a variety of means such as examples of contractual paperwork, emails, correspondence etc, professional discussions, witness/personal statements plus other sources which can be discussed with you.

4. Can you gain any professional qualifications through the NVQ route?

Yes you can. The Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply offer FULL MEMBERSHIP status to those achieving Level 4 and/or Level 5 in Supply Chain Management (subject to a minimum period of 3 years relevant experience)

This entitles you to use the designatory letters MCIPS after your name. This is exactly the same Membership grade as offered by any other route to CIPS. Click here to view CIPS statement regarding the NVQ route to MCIPS status.

APO are registered by CIPS to deliver NVQ Supply Chain Management programmes.

Membership of the Chartered Institute of Leadership & Management [MInstLM] and The Chartered Management Institute [MCMI] can be applied for should you complete QCF Management programme at either levels 5 and/or 7 – Click here or contact APO for further information.

5. Is the NVQ route to CIPS Membership easier than the academic (college type) method?

No it isn’t. It’s more convenient though as you do not have to commit to attending college or take examinations. Most people find that the NVQ route suits their lifestyle balance between work and domestic commitments. Clearly there is a need to provide wide-ranging evidence to prove your competence in the job.

6. Where does the Planning/Assessment for the NVQ take place?

Usually in the workplace – i.e. your office and via telephone appointments.  Your employer may want you to do some of the work in your own time and you will need to seek clarification from them on this.

7. What type of person undertakes the NVQ route?

We have candidates (the word describes people undertaking their NVQ) from all stages of their careers – early twenties through to early sixties and from all levels ranging from expeditors to global supply chain management managers etc. They normally do not wish to pursue the academic route to career progression and prefer recognition for their experience gained in supply chain/supply chain management activity through the NVQ route.

8. What is the process for achieving my NVQ?

We provide you with an assessor who works with you throughout the process. The assessor will help you with any queries you may have. They also provide assistance with the preparation, planning and assessment of your evidence for suitability in meeting the NVQ Standard.
Our assessors are supply chain/supply chain management professionals and are fully competent to answer any query. We have had several hundred people go through this process over recent years.

9. What are the benefits to me of following an NVQ route?

  • You can build on your strengths and focus training & development on the areas in which you need to improve, not waste time studying something you already know
  • You can prepare for your qualification to fit in with your work and personal commitments and adjust your plans in the light of your progress and contingencies
  • You receive a Certificate recognising your competence in supply chain/supply chain management
  • MCIPS accreditation should you complete NVQ level 4 and/or 5 and have the 3 years relevant experience to support your application

10. What are the benefits to my employer?

  • They have confidence that you are competent to carry out your responsibilities
  • Their training costs are reduced as training becomes more focused on what you need to perform effectively and develop your careers
  • Training and qualifications clearly link to other activities such as performance appraisal, coaching etc

11. How long does it take to achieve my NVQ?

Generally speaking, it is entirely up to you and is dependent upon your energy, commitment and drive to complete the process.  Typically it takes between 9 and 12 months to achieve the NVQ at your chosen level.  APO will support you for a period of up to 18 months after commencement of your NVQ

12. Who monitors the quality of the Standards?

Awarding Bodies (in APO’s case) ‘EDEXCEL’ monitor the quality as well as CIPS.  This is achieved by a process of assessment and verification.  Verifiers from EDEXCEL visit our premises and undertake a rigorous audit of APO’s processes and the evidence you have presented to support your claim to competence.  In addition to EDEXCEL, APO also holds ‘NVQ Centre Approval’ from City & Guilds of London

13. How do I get started?

Simply telephone (01325 301594) or Email Us and we will

  • Check on the suitability of your chosen NVQ Level
  • Take you through the simple registration process
  • Agree a mutually convenient date to come to your workplace to get you underway

14. What industry sectors use the NVQ route for professional development?

Virtually any. To date we have provided NVQs to organisations in the following sectors: -

  • Manufacturing
  • Process
  • Chemicals
  • National Health Service
  • Private Health Care
  • Local Government
  • Public Utilities
  • Police Authorities
  • Ambulance Service Providers
  • Transport
  • UK Defence Sector
  • Nuclear
  • Finance
  • Media

15. Who have APO delivered the NVQ SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT programme to in the past?

See ‘Our Clients Page’ – for just a sample of some of the clients we work with.  In addition to this we have delivered to many other organisations throughout the UK

16. What is a E-PORTFOLIO?

APO can offer you the opportunity to submit your evidence on-line – all you need is access to broadband internet. This allows you to have a paperless portfolio rather than the traditional type.
APO will discuss this option with you and provide a demo if necessary.