I have been asked on a number occasions with reference
to GQA Qualifications current construction qualifications and eligibility for CITB grants.
Firstly you should never assume grants are
automatically available as there are certain factors to take into
consideration, such as ‘is my company
registered and in scope to CITB?’ If so is your levy return completed and up to date?
I contacted CITB for clarification and was told,
"As the majority of GQA’s qualifications are currently NVQ these grants will be
relevant. The following is a link to our pages on the citb.co.uk website
explaining what is and what isn’t grant aided.”
In the next few months GQA will be offering a number
of Construction technical certificates which, in conjunction with the relevant QCF NVQ plus functional skills, will contribute to full
apprenticeship frameworks, so I asked if they
would be eligible for CITB grant.
CITB responded with:
"When you have established the
GQA apprenticeships – the apprenticeship grants will
apply”.
Here is a statement that can be used to clarify
Apprenticeship grant eligibility. I have also added a link to the
relevant document on the site.
“The minimum
requirement for CITB approved training is 35 days attendance each year on an
approved day release or block release course, which leads to an approved
Diploma and National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in a construction related
occupation and forms an integral part of an apprenticeship framework.”
I would also add that if you are in anyway in doubt
you would be well advised to contact your regional CITB office or contact your
local Company Development officer (CDA) who will be able to give you specific
advice.
Phil Douglas
GQA EQA/Technical Officer
