NVQ

Now on the map as a SAC (Satellite Assessment Centre) and one of the first professional products houses to join the scheme, Grafton International is able to offer you the opportunity to gain a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in nailcare. The following questions and answers should help you to understand what you can gain from an NVQ and how Grafton can help you get there.

What is the Association of Nail Technicians (ANT) and a Satellite Centre (SAC’s)?
ANT is an independent association set up to represent, help and work alongside nail technicians, students and salons and everyone connected with the nail industry. ANT decided to launch these national assessment centres 6 years ago, so that any technicians who wish to gain a professional qualification can do so at their own pace with the products of their choice, at local independent training centres (SAC’s).

What is an NVQ?
NVQ stands for ‘National Vocational Qualification’. An award that is based on your performance, as well as your background knowledge. It is not just an exam where you pass or fail and can be taken at your own pace. NVQ’s are divided into levels and units. Level 2 nail service units include manicure, pedicure, extend and maintain nails (fibreglass) and nail art. Level 3 services include nail extensions (all 3 systems — Gel, Acrylic and Fibreglass), repair and maintenance, advanced nail art (including airbrushing) and fashion and photographic work.

As a nail professional, why do I need an NVQ?
It is our industries intention to benchmark — allowing us to say to employers, training companies and students, that this is a national standard of work, not just a product manufacturer’s method of training. It shows that the nail tech has a commitment to his/her profession and if they wish to further their career into teaching, most collages/schools would require this qualification. It is a way in which our clients can measure our qualifications and feel confident about the treatment they are receiving.

How are the new NVQ’s different to the old Unit B13 and/or Unit 19?
This qualification has been upgraded. It means anyone who holds the new NVQ unit has covered nearly every possible scenario. It is better to work within a job where you feel confident that you can cope with any situation. In an industry that is constantly changing our qualification has incorporated those changes to keep high standards.

‘I know all there is to know’
This comment has come from salon owners and nail technicians who have a thorough knowledge of the industry. So why not prove it… The assessments do not have to involve any training so if you are an expert, then all you would need to do is sit your practical assessments at a centre and complete the theory in your own time at home, complete the mandatory test and you’re done! As a salon owner how would you feel if your staff were more qualified than yourself in an industry that is promoting education and high standards?

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