If you are a careers adviser or educational mentor then Star Units are important since they are likely to change perceptions and the public profile of the suite of Scottish and National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs).

NVQs give assurance that those who gain them are competent in their skill or occupational area. However, they have not, traditionally, had the capacity to highlight outstanding performance. Through Star Units they can now provide that facility.

This means that the status of NVQs when supplemented by Star Units is likely to be raised. Those who hold Star Units should find that this enhances their career and personal development opportunities.

For advisors this is a significant development because it is a development you may want to feed into a discussion about the benefits of undertaking a S/NVQ.

The implications for long-term career development are also very important. Star Units provide the motivated and hard-working learner with the encouragement that their talents will be recognised through a S/NVQ – an important consideration for those who are ambitious about their career development.

That said, it is essential to note that although the number of S/NVQs with associated Star Units is growing, the total is still relatively small. Keep abreast of the range of NVQs with Star Units by going to Which NVQs currently have associated Star Units?