Integrated Qualifications Framework
"We are now seeing some real progress in reshaping services around the needs of children, young people and families. Across the country, people are working together in new and integrated ways to provide better services, putting children and young people at the heart of delivery. Central to this task is the integration of the workforce itself - helping all those working with children to work better together, with common values and a common approach. Right at the centre is the Integrated Qualifications Framework."
Paul Ennals, Chair of the Children's Workforce Network. February 2008
The Integrated Qualifications Framework (IQF) will be a set of approved qualifications that allows progression, continuing professional development and mobility across the children and young people's workforce. It will be a comprehensive set of qualifications that are agreed to be appropriate for people who work with children and young people, up to and including degrees and postgraduate qualifications. It will support shared values and learning approaches across the whole of the children and young people's workforce.
The Children's Workforce Network is developing the IQF. This means that it will extend across and be supported by all the different sector bodies and occupational groups who work with children. Ultimately, this will mean that the child or young person is at the heart of all services and the skills and training available for staff is the best and most relevant in can possibly be.