In England, qualification standards are measured by the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) for adults aged 16-64. This measure includes educational attainment, but is wider than education and also indicates the ability, knowledge and skills of a person to do a job.
- RQF Level 1 is equivalent to GCSEs (grades 3-1: previously D-G)
- RQF Level 2 is equivalent to (grades 9-4: previously A*-C)
- RQF Level 3 is equivalent to A Levels (grade A-E) and/or AS Level
- RQF Level 4+ is equivalent to Vocational Qualification Level 4, HNC, CertHE, degree or higher
It is important to note that each RQF has multiple criteria, for example, RQF level 4 could be obtained through a Bachelor’s degree or foundation degree.
Buckinghamshire’s working age population (16-64) has a higher than average qualification level compared to the South East and England.
