Introducing the NZQF
05 Jul 2010
The establishment of a single unified New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) is one of most significant changes to New Zealand qualifications in two decades.
The New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) has been established as the single definitive repository for nationally approved, quality assured qualifications in New Zealand.
Launched on 1 July 2010, the NZQF replaces both the New Zealand Register of Quality Assured Qualifications (which many knew through the KiwiQuals website) and the National Qualifications Framework (the NQF). All existing qualifications from the Register and the NQF have been transferred to the NZQF. Assessment standards, which were part of the National Qualifications Framework, are now located in the new Directory of Assessment Standards.
The establishment of the NZQF is the first of several changes to be progressively implemented over the year ahead to strengthen and streamline the qualifications system
The changes follow a review of certificate and diploma level qualifications (Levels 1- 6 on the 10-level NZQF). The review found that a proliferation of qualifications at these levels made it difficult for learners to select courses and for employers to assess the quality of qualifications and tell if potential employees had the skills and knowledge they need.
The introduction of a new feature which assigns every qualification a status of current, expiring or discontinued has immediately reduced the number of current qualifications by about 15%, down from over 6000 to just over 5000. This will also allow students to quickly see if a qualification is currently open for enrolments.
Other changes will be implemented progressively from October. NZQA is currently consulting on these changes and the details of qualification design. For more information about the changes and the consultation see Targeted review of qualifications.