GQA Qualifications

Minimum Technical Competencies (MTCs)

Required by Competent Person Scheme Operators and also detailed within PAS 2030: 2012 ‘Improving the energy efficiency of existing buildings. Specification for installation process, process management and service provision’, the Minimum Technical Competencies were developed by representatives of Competent Person Schemes and membership bodies operating within the fenestration sector in conjunction with GQA, Proskills and the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).

This group used the existing National Occupational Standard (NOS) and GQA developed QCF qualifications to devise appropriate minimum requirements for installers and surveyors involved in the installation of windows and external doors.

So where do GQAs qualifications fit?

Route 1 for complying with the MTCs is detailed as achieving a GQA qualification, Route 2 is by achieving a number of GQA qualification units. Our qualifications are developed using the same national occupational standards that the MTCs were developed from giving a direct link between the 2; furthermore, those installers who have achieved the QCF / NVQ qualification have taken the first steps into a lifelong learning scheme that will enable future, shorter assessments to prove ongoing competence through the Q-Card scheme.

The Q-Card is a way of recognising current competence. The holder can clearly prove that they have the skill and competence to carry out their job to a nationally recognised standard. The front of the card shows the identity of the card holder, along with details of the qualification achieved and the card's expiry date. The key component of the card is the QR code which can be scanned by a smartphone bar code reader (a free app across all operating systems) and gives access to the card holders training and qualification record as held within GQA’s database – real, visible proof of an installers competence!

If you are member of the Assure or FENSA competent person schemes, you will be aware of the options available to you to meet the requirements of the MTCs; achieve your full GQA qualification and become a qualified Installer.


GQA qualifications meet the requirements of the MTCs and holding a Q-Card, Assure Card or FENSA Card is the beginning of a journey in terms of updating and recognition of ongoing skills and competence.

For more information on the MTCs contact GQA on 01142 720033 / info@gqaqualifications.com, or alternatively speak to your Competent Person Scheme Operator.
 

The Q-Card

The Q-Card is a way of recognising current competence. The holder can clearly prove that they have the skill and competence to carry out their job to a nationally recognised standard.

The Q-Card is a way of recognising current competence. The holder can clearly prove that they have the skill and competence to carry out their job to a nationally recognised standard. The front of the card shows the identity of the card holder, along with details of the qualification achieved and the card's expiry date. The key component of the card is the QR code which can be scanned by a smartphone bar code reader (a free app across all operating systems) and gives access to the card holders training and qualification record as held within GQA’s database – real, visible proof of an installers competence!

Why was the Q-Card introduced?

The Q-Card was introduced because consumers demand proof that workers are currently competent and fully qualified for the job. In some GQA Sectors, legislation requires individuals to achieve nationally recognised levels of competence and proof of qualifications before they grant access to the workplace. The Q-Card satisfies both of these needs.