Are you looking to become a qualified assessor? The TQUK Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) is the industry-standard qualification for individuals who want to assess vocational skills, knowledge, and competence in the workplace or classroom.
This nationally recognised qualification is ideal for professionals looking to assess apprenticeships, NVQs, diplomas, or work-based learning programmes in various sectors, including healthcare, construction, education, hospitality, and business.
If you want to work as an NVQ Assessor, Workplace Assessor, or Internal Verifier, this course provides the essential skills and knowledge to confidently assess learners’ progress and competence in their chosen vocational field.
Description
The TQUK Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) is a comprehensive qualification designed to prepare individuals to assess vocational learners in both work-based and classroom settings. This is the gold standard qualification for assessors and is required by most awarding bodies for those assessing NVQs, apprenticeships, and workplace competency-based qualifications.
The course covers assessment principles, different types of assessments, and how to apply assessment methods effectively to measure a learner’s progress and competence. Learners will gain an in-depth understanding of the roles and responsibilities of an assessor, including how to plan, deliver, and review assessments, ensuring they align with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Throughout the course, learners will develop the skills to assess candidates using a range of methods, including:
• Direct observation in the workplace
• Professional discussions
• Written assignments and knowledge assessments
• Work-based evidence and witness testimonies
• Portfolio reviews
Learners will also explore fairness, reliability, and standardisation in assessment to ensure that all learners are treated equally and given the best opportunity to succeed. They will learn how to provide constructive feedback, supporting learners in improving their skills and achieving their qualifications.
This qualification is highly flexible and can be applied to a wide range of industries, making it suitable for assessors in health and social care, business, construction, engineering, hospitality, hair and beauty, and many other vocational sectors.
By the end of the course, learners will have a full understanding of the assessment process and be able to carry out high-quality assessments that meet the required standards of awarding organisations and regulatory bodies.
The CAVA qualification is often required for those wishing to progress into Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) roles, making it a great stepping stone for those who want to take their career in education and training further.
This course is particularly beneficial for:
✔️ Existing professionals looking to become assessors
✔️ Trainers, teachers, or supervisors who assess apprenticeships or vocational qualifications
✔️ Workplace mentors who need to assess employees’ competency
✔️ Freelance trainers or assessors looking to work with multiple organisations
✔️ Individuals aiming to become an Internal Verifier (IQA) in the future
Upon successful completion, learners will be qualified to assess both occupational competence in a work environment and vocational skills, knowledge, and understanding in a classroom or workshop setting.
Who Is This Course For?
Experienced professionals looking to become qualified assessors in their industry.
Trainers and teachers who want to assess vocational qualifications.
Workplace mentors or supervisors who need to assess employees’ skills and competencies.
Individuals looking to work as an NVQ Assessor, Apprenticeship Assessor, or Internal Verifier.
Anyone who wants to progress into quality assurance, education, or learning and development (L&D) roles.
Entry Requirements
- Learners must be at least 19 years old.
- No formal qualifications are required, but learners must have competency in the subject they wish to assess.
- A good standard of English, Maths, and ICT is beneficial for completing written assignments and practical assessments.
- Learners must have access to two learners in a real work environment to complete the practical assessment component.
Course Content
This course covers essential topics in vocational assessment, including:
✅ Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment – Explore the fundamental concepts behind assessment, including legal and regulatory frameworks.
✅ Planning and Conducting Assessments – Learn how to create structured assessment plans and conduct fair and effective assessments.
✅ Different Types of Assessment Methods – Understand how to use observations, professional discussions, written assignments, witness testimonies, and work-based evidence to assess learners.
✅ Providing Constructive Feedback – Develop techniques for delivering clear, supportive, and motivational feedback to learners.
✅ Ensuring Fair and Consistent Assessments – Learn how to maintain assessment integrity by following standardisation and quality assurance processes.
✅ Using Technology in Assessment – Discover how e-portfolios, online assessments, and digital tools can enhance the assessment process.
✅ Supporting Learners Through the Assessment Process – Understand how to engage and motivate learners, ensuring they reach their full potential.
✅ Understanding Quality Assurance in Assessment – Learn how assessments are monitored and reviewed to ensure compliance with awarding body standards.
Career Opportunities
This qualification prepares learners for roles such as:
✔️ NVQ Assessor
✔️ Apprenticeship Assessor
✔️ Workplace Trainer
✔️ Learning and Development (L&D) Assessor
✔️ Internal Verifier (with further training)
Progression Opportunities
Upon completing this qualification, learners can progress to:
✔️ TQUK Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice (IQA) (for becoming an Internal Verifier)
✔️ TQUK Level 5 Diploma in Education & Training (DET) (for those looking to become teachers or lecturers)
✔️ Higher-level qualifications in leadership and management in education and training
✔️ Employment as an NVQ Assessor, Apprenticeship Assessor, or Workplace Trainer
Induction
As part of your course, you will receive a 1-2-1 induction session with your tutor via Microsoft Teams. This session is designed to help you get started, set clear goals, and ensure you have the right support in place for a successful learning experience.
What to Expect in Your Induction Session:
✔ Individual Learning Plan (ILP) Creation – Your tutor will work with you to develop a personalised learning plan, outlining key milestones and ensuring your studies align with your goals.
✔ Target Setting – Together, you’ll set realistic and achievable targets to help you stay on track and motivated throughout your course.
✔ Additional Support Needs – If you require any extra support or adjustments, this is the perfect opportunity to discuss your needs so we can tailor our support to you.
Assessment
All assessments for your course are set and marked internally to ensure a high standard of learning and feedback. Simply submit your work to your dedicated course tutor, who will carefully review your assessments and provide constructive feedback to support your progress.
Once you have successfully completed all required assessments, your work will go through our Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) process. This ensures that marking is consistent, fair, and meets the required standards. During this process:
✔ Your assessments may be moderated by an internal quality assurer to verify accuracy and consistency.
✔ This additional review helps maintain the integrity and credibility of your qualification.
✔ If any further amendments are needed, you’ll be provided with clear guidance on what to improve.
Once your work has passed through the IQA process and meets all necessary standards, your certification will be issued, officially confirming your successful course completion.
We are committed to maintaining the highest quality of assessment and support throughout your learning journey. If you have any questions about the process, feel free to reach out to your tutor!
Tutor Support
As part of your course, you will receive unlimited email support from a dedicated course tutor throughout your tutor support period, which covers the full duration of your course. Our tutors are here to assist with any questions, provide guidance, and help you stay on track with your learning.
If you require additional tutor support after your course end date, extra support can be purchased to ensure you continue receiving the help you need.
For more information on extending your tutor support, please get in touch with us. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Optional Extras
Need Extra Support? Book a 1-2-1 Tutor Session!
If you’d like additional guidance, you can book a personalised 15-minute 1-2-1 tutor session via Microsoft Teams for just £20. Whether you need help understanding a topic, want feedback on your work, or have specific questions, our expert tutors are here to support you.
✔ Tailored to Your Needs – Get direct support on the areas you need help with.
✔ Flexible & Convenient – Sessions take place online via Teams at a time that suits you.
✔ Expert Guidance – Benefit from a tutor’s expertise to boost your confidence and understanding.
Make the Most of Your Session
To ensure your tutor is fully prepared and you get the most out of your time, we ask that you send over details of what you’d like to discuss in advance. This helps us tailor the session to your needs and provide the best possible support.
Get the extra support you need to succeed – book your 1-2-1 session today!

Duration Requirements
Up to 12 months
Entry
Assessment
All assessments are set and marked internally. Simply send your work to your dedicated course tutor, who will review it and provide feedback. Once you successfully complete the course, you'll receive your certification.
Purchase Options
Note: The monthly plan includes an initial deposit of £60.00 and 11 monthly payments of £40.00 per month.
Course code:
Monthly payment options available
via GoCardless at checkout