INTERNATIONAL QUALIFICATION FRAMEWORK (IQF)

The IQF has been developed to standardise the levels of competencies and achievement of various qualifications and certifications around the world.

These are rated on a scale of 1-8, where Level 1 indicates general, foundational learning, and Level 8 is regarded as Doctorate Level.

In between, there are the various levels comparable to formal education pathways such as high school and university.

For instance, the Level 2 is generally accepted as the minimum entry level requirement from a H&S perspective.

Level 3 is the minimum required standard for individuals to work unsupervised as a coach, and Level 6 is a degree level endorsement certifying a high level of understanding and application of knowledge.

Within this framework, there is also a consideration for the breadth of knowledge.

For example, a ‘certificate’ designates at least 120 hours of learning, whereas a ‘diploma’ indicates at least 480 hours of learning.

There are also various ‘professional development’ courses of shorter duration.

The IUSCA uses standardised course levels, rated on the International Qualification Framework (IQF), to ensure that stakeholders understand the requirements and competencies of suitably qualified individuals.

The IQF is designed to provide understanding and transparency of the equivalent levels of education provided by different organisations.

This is a standardised system that allows for the transfer of qualifications between different countries and governing bodies.

For further information regarding each IQF Level, please refer to the corresponding Table of Competencies, which details the level of understanding at each IQF stage.