This qualification is designed for individuals who work directly with clients, disseminating information, advice and guidance (IAG). Candidates will be working with information that is often interpreted by others, usually working within some clear guidelines. Candidates usually work with clients on a one-to-one basis but may also deliver their services to groups/within group settings. It is suitable for candidates whose work includes clear guidelines on the practice of advice and guidance, who are based in designated advice and/or guidance organisations or advice and guidance functions within an organisation and whose role it is to provide information that is often interpreted by others.

• Establishing communication with clients
• Supporting clients to make use of the service
• Reviewing your own contribution to the service
• Understanding the importance of legislation and procedures

Optional units include: 

• Developing interactions with clients
• Action planning
• Liaising with other services
• Promoting careers education guidance

• Candidates must be either employed in a relevant role within the sector or be operating as an experienced volunteer. We recommend that you are volunteering for a minimum of two days per week and that you have at least six months’ experience before commencing the programme.
• Your role needs to be in an advisory or guidance capacity in an IAG setting. Your employer/volunteering placement will need to agree to observations of your work with clients by a assessor.
• Whilst experience is more relevant than formal qualifications, a good standard of English is required (level 2 equivalent in literacy) and all candidates must undertake the literacy assessment and numeracy to confirm this. IT competence is also required as some work must be submitted via email, so you must also have an email address and regular access to IT.
• You must be aged 18 or above.
• You must be an EU citizen and have lived within the EU continuously for the last 3 years.

The NVQ Certificate is assessed through portfolio building, tutor observation and assignments.

At the end of the programme will have achieved: Edexcel Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Advice and Guidance (600/0684/5).

On completion of the Level 3 NVQ Certificate, many candidates will progress within their careers and for those who complete it while volunteering, they may secure paid employment.

• Connexions adviser
• Business Link adviser
• Citizens Advice Bureau staff
• Advice providers within educational institutions
• Counselling providers
• Training and human resource personnel
• Receptionists and administrators
• Assessors and verifiers
• Awarding body associates