Introduction

During the past five years comprehensive NQFs have become key instruments for the reform of education, training and qualifications systems in the EU. While very few of the member states had considered this approach prior to 2005, the situation today is very different. As this chapter will show, all EU countries are currently actively working on the development and implementation of national frameworks. While only a small number of countries have so far fully implemented an NQF (UK, France, Ireland, Malta), all EU countries are now signalling that they will introduce comprehensive NQFs covering all parts and levels of their education, training and qualifications systems.

The European Qualifications Framework (EQF) for lifelong learning (see Chapter 6) has acted as a catalyst for these developments. Adopted in 2008 by the European Parliament and Council, the recommendation invites countries to relate their qualifications systems to the EQF by 2010 by referencing, in a transparent manner, their qualification levels to the levels set out in the EQF; and, where appropriate, by developing NQFs in accordance with national legislation and practice.

The rapid development of NQFs confirms that countries see the EQF as a relevant and important instrument for European cooperation. The majority of countries are actively pursuing the 2010 deadline and giving priority to the formal referencing to the EQF within the deadlines set.