City & Guilds is an awarding body in the UK. They offer vocational qualifications that are recognised by employers.

They were first established in 1878 to promote education and training in the workplace. In 1900 they were given a Royal Charter "to provide the means and motivation for individuals, corporations and communities to achieve their goals."

Visit the City and Guilds website for more detailed information on the types of qualifications they have.

• www.city-and-guilds.co.uk

An awarding body develops qualifications through consultation with experts from relevant industries/ academic bodies.

They supply, verify and mark all assignments and examinations through a structure of internal and external verifiers in approved delivery centres.

By consulting with representatives from industry, government and training organisations the vocational qualifications it offers identify the skills needed to support the UK economy.

They range from traditional classroom based methods of assessment such as project work and assignments to work based compentancy orientated qualifications such as NVQs.

There are a range of levels from entry to the highest professional abilty.

Level 1
Introductory, for those new to the subject.

Level 2
For those with some knowledge/ ability in the subject.

Level 3
Application of knowledge covering a broad range of work activities, you might be in a job where you supervise others.

Level 4
Complex and technical/professional work. May include responsiblity for the work of others and allocation of resources.

Level 5
Significant range of fundamental principles and complex techniques over a variety of contexts. Significant responsibility for work of others and allocation of resources.

Level 6
Senior management level

Level 7
Highest level of professional achievement.