Integrated Qualifications Framework (IQF)

The Integrated Qualifications Framework (IQF) comprises a set of approved qualifications allowing progression, continuing professional development and mobility across the children's workforce.  IQF approval means that qualifications are accessible, fit for purpose and recognisable across different occupational groups with the children's sector.  The IQF will provide a number of benefits for the children's workforce including:

• improving job mobility and career choices;
• making it easier for people to develop and update their skills; and
• providing information on the qualifications available for new entrants to the workforce.

 The IQF is the holistic learning framework for the practitioner and will help the practitioner (and employers) implement holistic services for children, for example through integrated services or the Team Around the Child.

For latest information, including regular newsletters, go to: www.iqf.org.uk 

The Common Core of Skills and Knowledge

IQF qualifications will be underpinned by the Common Core of Skills and Knowledge for the workforce - the essential competencies identified for the widest possible range of practitioners in services for children, young people and their families/carers.

The Common Core for the children and young people's workforce sets out the basic skills and knowledge needed by all people (including volunteers) whose work brings them into regular contact with children and young people, whatever their age.

The Common Core acknowledges both the rights of children and young people, and the role that parents, carers and families play in helping children and young people.

The Common Core joins up six areas of skills and knowledge in a common platform of understanding for the workforce. It reflects a set of common values for practitioners that promotes equality, respects diversity and challenges stereotypes.

For more about the Common Core, go to: www.cwdcouncil.org.uk/common-core