Lessons from New Zealand's National Qualifications Framework

Abstract

This article describes the development and implementation of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) in New Zealand, regarded as the most comprehensive standards--based qualifications system in the world. The origins of the NQF, and the advantages that a unitary framework was seen to have for the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) as a new government-funded agency responsible for implementing qualifications reform in a market-driven environment, are explored. Key concepts borrowed from SCOTVEC and NCVQ were instrumental in the NQF's development. However, following opposition to the unitary framework by some schools and universities, and national consultation, the NQF was broadened. The development of the National Certificate of Educational Achievement, a school-based qualification based on 'achievement standards'--an adaptation of the 'unit standard'--is used to exemplify the broadened framework. The conclusion focuses on some of the enduring issues associated with New Zealand's qualifications reforms.