Star Units do not cover any extra ground or wider skills than are included in the normal NVQ. Instead, they focus on exceptionally high level performance in the S/NVQ assessment and reflect personal qualities such as commitment, thoroughness, efficient working and good planning.

Three assessment models have been devised in order to capture this exceptional performance

Model 1: includes exceptional performance criteria with each performance criterion of a unit;

Model 2: attaches exceptional performance criteria to a unit or across a qualification as a whole;

Model 3: features ‘generic’ units which focus on behavioural qualities and factors regarded as exceptional.

In each case the Star Unit criteria relates specifically to performance in the workplace. The choice of which Model is appropriate for a specific S/NVQ will depend on the nature of the occupation and the most effective way of capturing exceptional performance within that sector.
Star Units performance criteria

Model 1: in which the exceptional performance criteria are attached to each performance criterion of a unit.

For example, for Customer Service S/NVQs this could include:

Show awareness of the organisation’s standards of appearance and behaviour and conform to these at all times:
  • Greet your customer according to organisational guidelines.
  • Acknowledge the customer promptly in a friendly and respectful manner.
  • Communicate with your customer in a timely manner which establishes rapport and makes the customer feel valued and respected
  • Identify your customer’s needs and by use of sensitive questioning confirm their expectations and your understanding
  • At all times treat your customer courteously and with respect, being helpful and understanding
Model 2: in which exceptional performance criteria are attached to a unit or across a qualification as a whole. So, typically, a set of 6-8 additional exceptional performance criteria would be added to the unit (or qualification – see below) as in this example at unit level for Motor Vehicle:
  • The candidate has demonstrated exceptional efficiency in the workplace over a period of eight consecutive weeks for level 2 awards; twelve consecutive weeks for level 3 awards.
  • The quality of work produced during the eight/twelve week period is of a high standard.
  • The candidate has independently undertaken additional training of at least one day in the use of specialist equipment or updated/improved their technical or personal skills.
  • The candidate has demonstrated effective planning and organisational skills.
  • The candidate has demonstrated, within the scope of their responsibility, the ability to work effectively whilst unsupervised, using his/her own initiative.
  • The candidate displays a positive attitude and actively participates in the development of relationships with colleagues, supervisors and customers.
  • The candidate demonstrates a flexible and adaptable approach to the performance of tasks within the workplace
Model 3: which is based upon stand-alone units of exceptional
performance which could, in principle, be used alongside any S/NVQ as in the following example.

Unit 1: Determination, coping and robustness (level 2)

Unit Descriptor

Recognition of higher skills will be measured against the achievement of the S/NVQ and the standards below. Candidates will have to demonstrate the use and development of personal skills and attributes to provide evidence towards consistent practice throughout their learning and assessment in fulfilling the
requirements of this unit.

Evidence at NVQ level 2 standard must show within the workplace setting (or realistic working environment) that they are able to:
  • Commit to complete work and achieve, with help, even when they anticipated or had identified possible problems
  • Maintain a consistent level of work when problems or circumstances are difficult
  • Recognise and work within their abilities and ask for support when required
  • Push beyond current abilities where necessary
  • Consistently respond favourably to the needs of the workplace, colleagues and customers
  • Follow organisational policies for non-attendance and show that they do not exceed the % number of sick days that are acceptable
  • Demonstrate creative and original thinking and maintain a positive attitude in all of their work
  • Apply an element of risk, with minimal guidance, to complete their tasks and goals.