Changing lives through work-based qualifications

Qualifications are a crucial part of an individual’s learning and training experience and make a valuable contribution to society. They give people a goal to work towards, and open the door to further education, training and career opportunities.

Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) are based on job competence and recognise the skills and knowledge people need in employment. With over 500 SVQs available in sectors as diverse as accounting and retail to forestry and fashion, they can be achieved in most occupations for all types and level of job. SVQs range in level of difficulty allowing for progression in the workplace.

SVQs are assessed on the practical activity undertaken by the learner in the workplace using a portfolio of evidence that meets occupational standards. This makes them ideal for those in full-time employment wishing to undertake a qualification.

SVQs are also an integral part of most Modern Apprenticeships. Modern Apprenticeships allow young people to enter paid employment whilst gaining an industry recognised qualification. Museums Galleries Scotland (MGS), is just one SQA training centre offering SVQs through Modern Apprenticeships in museums all over Scotland, from Shetland to the Borders.

The Museums & Galleries Technician Modern Apprenticeship allows learners to demonstrate their understanding of the museums and galleries sector through practical experience, and by undertaking the SVQ in Museums and Galleries Practice at SCQF level 7. This SVQ includes assisting visitors in getting the best from their experience of a creative and cultural organisation, providing specific information on a collection for a cultural heritage organisation, and contributing to the care of items within a cultural venue.

 

James’s story

In 2020, James McLean began the SVQ in Museums and Galleries Practice through MGS, while working at the Scottish Maritime Museum in Irvine as a Collection’s Assistant.

James says: “Before deciding to pursue my interest in the heritage sector, I was a factory worker for six years. I have always had a passion for social history but for various reasons could not go to university after leaving school, so had to find employment wherever I could. I had convinced myself that it was silly to believe I could have a career in museums.

“Historically, museums have always had a high barrier to entry with a university degree being the minimum entry requirement. Alongside this, contracts tend to be temporary or part-time, both of which only really suit people that are financially comfortable with a safety net. Being from a poor, working-class background, I didn’t have either of those things.

“When I was offered a place on the SVQ programme through MGS, I jumped at the opportunity. I have gained an incredible amount of experience in all aspects of museum work. Learning on the job in a small independent museum has not only shown me the proper way of working in museums, but also the unique difficulties faced by smaller organisations in the sector. Now that this SVQ is provided as part of a Modern Apprenticeship, I hope that more working-class people find their way in to working in museums and lend their voice to the interpretation of our shared history.”

Thanks to his experience and knowledge gained through the SVQ, when the role of Curator at the museum came up, James was offered the position.

James explains: “I do everything from writing grant proposals and managing the extensive maritime collection, to responding to research requests and managing the twenty strong cohort of museum volunteers.

“Becoming a Curator has always been the dream for me. Had I not undertaken the SVQ, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to show that I could take on more responsibility within the museum. I would recommend SVQs to anyone, especially those from under-represented backgrounds, as it’s a great way to learn and demonstrate your skills and knowledge.”

To find out more about all of the SVQs that SQA offer, visit www.sqa.org.uk/SVQ.

As the Regional Manager for Glasgow, Derek Houston has extensive knowledge of SQA qualifications, from those delivered in schools and colleges, to workplace-based qualifications. He supports and engages with organisations delivering SQA qualifications in his area and aids the development of new qualifications to meet the changing needs of learners and employers. If you’d like advice on delivering SQA qualifications, please contact Derek at derek.houston@sqa.org.uk. Derek is also currently a member of the Glasgow Employment and Skills Board.

This article was submitted as an advertorial for the Glasgow Business Magazine.