The most effective use of Star Units is when all students/learners and trainees/apprentices are aware that their S/NVQ has associated Star Units and, as far as possible, feel motivated to achieve them.

It is important, therefore, that lecturers and trainers should publicise the availability of Star Units so that the learners understand what is required to achieve the exceptional standard. As a learning programme progresses it is likely to become more obvious who is most likely to succeed and some minimal extra guidance or encouragement may be useful. It is also important, however, that those learners who are not likely to achieve a Star Unit should still feel that Star Unit Standards are relevant to them in terms of their understanding of the ‘exceptional’ standard and future development at work.