Chris's Story: Chris has been a full-time Assesor since 2006
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Chris has worked as a full-time NVQ Assessor for Careforce since 2006, she joined Careforce in 2004 as a branch trainer and went on to become a regional trainer. Chris is a registered nurse and worked in the healthcare sector before becoming a Deputy Manager in a nursing home where she was responsible for training. She has enjoyed being part of a growing company over the past few years with the career and development opportunities this offers.
“In my role as NVQ assessor I spend my working day travelling and meeting with candidates from Careforce’s northern branches, and on most days I have quite a journey! My candidates are undertaking NVQ Health and Social Care at level 2 or 3. They are a varied group in both age and life experience. What they all have in common is the desire to provide the best possible care for their service users.
Vocational qualifications involve the gathering of evidence to prove competence. This means that my day is spent doing a variety of different things. No two days are the same, which is part of the appeal of this job.
A typical day will include one-to-one meetings to help candidates identify where and how evidence of competency can be found. The most effective way to prove competency is for the assessor to witness them undertaking the task so, with the consent of the client, I observe my candidates as they go about their daily work. This often necessitates very early starts or working late evenings as it is important that I watch ‘real’ work without inconveniencing clients.
As soon as possible after I have observed a candidate, I write up a detailed account of what I have seen. I then make a judgement, based on the national standards, as to what competence the candidate has demonstrated. We then meet again for feedback on what I have seen and what has been covered which also gives me the opportunity to discuss with them their knowledge and progress. Sometimes I set written questions, case studies or projects, at other times we cover areas verbally. Every candidate is an individual and each has unique abilities and needs; it is important that each candidate is supported to achieve their goals in the best way possible for them. They always benefit from any support and encouragement their branch colleagues can give them too.
Despite the long hours, I enjoy my role and the opportunity it gives me to meet and work with many excellent carers, who all deserve recognition for their skill and dedication. By investing in our carers’ training and qualifications, we will really ensure that we continue to improve and to deliver ever higher quality care.