Sector Qualification Strategy
The Sector Qualification Strategy (SQS) is a major initiative undertaken by Skills for Health which sets out the requirements for vocational qualifications and to ensure these are designed by and for the sector.
Aim of SQS
Our aim is to achieve a shared vision based on an agreed set of design principles for qualifications and other learning provision to better meet the needs of employers across the health sector.
How the SQS was developed
Production of the SQS involved a review of the Labour Market Intelligence research and analysis of the qualifications available to those working in the NHS, private, independent and voluntary sectors. We carried out extensive consultation with employers and many other key stakeholders and regulatory authorities in England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.
This work has helped create a strong foundation for partnership working with stakeholders to ensure that qualifications are driven by employer need to meet the requirements of patients and service users.
The final documents related to the SQS can be found in the related documents panel to the right of this page. Additionally, you can download the related appendices.
Skills for Health have created an action plan which refers specifically to the health sector for each of the UK countries; it demonstrates the priorities to the individual country, methods and outcomes. Current action plans can be found below. Action plans will be refreshed every two years following further consultation with the sector; in February 2009 we will start a formal process to gather intelligence to prepare the action plans for 2009 - 2011.
Want to know more?
Contact qualifications@skillsforhealth.org.uk