Assessors

techcen would particularly like to hear from any trained NVQ assessors or those interested in becoming trained and employed assessors of this award. techcen will provide free training to those wishing to become assessors and link them with 3 candidates that they can work with. The process of acquiring the A1 assessor award involves assessing 2 candidates against 2 complete units. Qualified assessors will then be paid by techcen for any further candidates they take on. It is worth noting that the A1 award is not specific to the LATA qualification but, subject to occupational competence, qualifies assessors to assess any NVQ.

The Role of the Assessor

The primary role of the assessor is to assess candidates' performance and/or related knowledge in a range of tasks and to ensure that the competence and/or knowledge demonstrated meets the requirements of the standards. Assessors therefore need to have occupational expertise in the areas to be assessed. They will be required to update their expertise by being involved in continuous professional development activities.

The Responsibilities of the Assessor

Assessors are responsible for:

• Making initial contact with the candidate and maintaining regular contact throughout the course of the NVQ
• Ensuring that the candidate is aware of current legislation relating to them and all concerned with their assessment   especially equal opportunities and health and safety
• Ensuring that the candidate is aware of their own responsibility with regards to the collection of evidence and taking into account any accreditation of prior learning or achievement
• Agreeing and updating assessment plans with the candidate
• Explaining the assessment process fully to the candidate and others involved
• Following the guidance issued by both the Awarding Body and the centre with regards to assessment practice and completion of documentation

Assessors of NVQs must hold appropriate assessor qualifications ( D32,D33 or A1) as approved by the regulatory authorities, or be working towards such qualifications and completing within 18 months of commencement of the role.

Assessors not holding the appropriate qualifications must always have their assessment decisions checked and countersigned by a qualified assessor.