NCEA What it means to employers April Tuesday 20th 2004
The Chamber’s BA5 for April was with Paul Wheeler - School Relationship Manager from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority’s Secondary Education Group. He liases with schools in the Otago/Southland region to help ensure that the National Qualifications Framework is implemented and utilised effectively in secondary schools in the region.
Paul explained to members how to read and interpret the ‘Record of Learning’ which is what the students receive after completion of each Level 1, 2 and 3. The Record of Learning contains the results information, giving a profile of each student’s achievement standards and unit standards they have met in order to gain credits toward their NCEA or other national qualifications on the National Qualifications framework. Learners will continue to add to their Record of Learning after leaving school, either through workplace or tertiary training.
He also highlighted what employers should do when recruiting school leavers.
NCEA offers a broad “sorting” indicator and lots of detail. Think about whether you are looking for indicators of general overall ability, or more specific skills. A Record of Learning can give you the big picture or lots of detail, depending on what you need.
What to ask for?
• Documentation – summarised, if required
• Skills that make them suitable for the job
• Industry specific skills and knowledge
Some learners may have a Record of Learning of up to four pages. You may wish to ask potential employees to summarise only their level 2 or 3 results; where they have achieved Excellences or Merits; or only their industry specific skills what to look for?
• Industry specific skills
• General skills (e.g. literacy, numeracy, computer skills, communication skills, presentation skills)
• Number and level of credits achieved
• Areas where credits have been achieved
• Any Merits or Excellences achieved
The Chamber of Commerce thanks the NZ Qualifications Authority and Paul Wheeler for taking the time to enlighten and clarify aspects of NCEA to Chamber Members.
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