Strengthen the NVQ framework to build the capacity of small businesses

There is an adage that says you cannot lead anyone beyond your own capacity. It is against this backdrop that small business training must be high on the agenda of all agencies engaged in business development, whether business support organisations, academic institutions or policymakers. Micro, small and medium enterprise practitioners must focus more aggressively and strategically at this time, on improving their management and technical competencies to enhance their overall competitiveness and drive business growth. For those who may not have the time or inclination to submit to an academic course of study, the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) framework is a viable alternative to build skills and attain certification in key occupational areas.

This is why in 2015 the Small Business Association of Barbados underwent the process to become a NVQ Centre with the Technical Vocational & Education Training Council and has been a strong advocate for strengthening the local NVQ regime to broaden the training product available to MSMEs. Being an NVQ Centre has allowed the SBA to become certified to deliver five qualifications in a number of business development areas. One such programme is Developing a Business Enterprise Level 2, currently being offered to seniors at secondary schools. For the academic year 2024-2025, some four schools have been involved in a pilot project where more than 70 students are going through the process of assessment and verification to become competent in this NVQ. This means that scores of secondary school students will have an opportunity to graduate with an additional qualification to enhance their marketability and improve their skills in business as they look to enter the world of work.

The NVQ as a tool to drive business competitiveness is therefore an untapped resource which must be unlocked to enable MSME development at this time.

A NVQ is a work-based certification that recognises an individual’s ability to perform a job effectively by demonstrating relevant skills and knowledge in their specific role. Rather than focusing on academic theory, NVQs are centred around real-world competence in the workplace. This therefore makes the NVQ a suitable area of training for small business owners.

As described by the United Kingdom’s Vocational Training agency, at the heart of the NVQ is the concept of competency—having the right mix of skills, knowledge, and understanding to successfully carry out tasks associated with a particular job role. It is about proving the candidate can do the work to a recognised standard. The NVQ offers a flexible route to qualification without the pressure of traditional exams and provides a way to validate and formalise existing skills, boosting confidence and employability.

NVQs are practical, work-based qualifications that show a person’s ability to carry out tasks and responsibilities in a specific job or industry. They are ideal for those who may not have followed a conventional educational path, offering access to recognised qualifications that align with national occupational standards. These benefits include:

– Flexible, exam-free qualification path

– Recognition of practical skills and knowledge

– Certification aligned with national occupational standards

– Access to qualifications for those without formal education.

Small business owners can also use the NVQ framework to certify employees and build the skills of their staff in a manageable and flexible manner. NVQs are a powerful tool for workforce development. They allow employees to train while continuing in their roles, minimising disruption to daily operations. Employers benefit from enhanced staff performance, increased adherence to industry standards, and a clear demonstration of commitment to quality and professional growth. Benefits for the employee include:
– Efficient staff development to national standards

– Validation of practical job capabilities

– Minimal disruption due to on-the-job training

– Alignment of employees with current industry practices.

Recent figures from the UK show that more employers are looking for candidates with NVQs. These qualifications are seen as a trusted way to measure someone’s skills and readiness for the workplace.

There are several clear reasons why NVQs are becoming more important:

• Around 87 per cent of employers in the UK say they prefer to hire candidates who hold an NVQ.
• People with NVQs are about 25 per cent more likely to be promoted than those without.
• On average, NVQ holders earn 15 per cent more than those without similar qualifications.

These statistics highlight how much an NVQ can improve the job market. Equally, small business owners can further improve their competitiveness and viability through certification in their industry.

Much has been said in the marketplace about the need for certification of persons in particular occupational areas such as mechanics, nail technicians, masseuse, barbers, cosmetologists, among several other sectors. The list is varied and represents primarily those operating in the informal economy. To bring certification and standardisation to these industries, the NVQ framework can be used to assist practitioners in meeting acceptable standards while being certified in their areas of competence. The customer benefits from a quality product and experience, and the wider economy benefits from a quality infrastructure that contributes positively to the Barbados brand.

Vocational qualifications are accepted in most of the countries in the Caribbean Community. These are known as Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs), once recognised in CARICOM. MSMEs desirous of offering their products in the regional market will be more competitive having a CVQ/NVQ in the industry of specialisation. The qualification is equally recognised in the international market by several of Barbados’ traditional trading partners. This therefore is a further fillip to having a robust NVQ/CVQ framework with a varied number of relevant occupational areas.

A national programme is therefore needed to certify business owners, particularly in the informal sector, and to create a cadre of small businesses that are trained, certified and delivering goods and services according to a standardised and quality framework.

The Small Business Association of Barbados (www.sba.bb) is the non-profit representative body for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).