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Britannia Qualify
Ofqual regulated · 603/2276/5Verify on the registerAwarded by Focus Awards

Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement

4.6(8)15 credits · 150 TQT103 learners enrolledEnrol today, start today
Study onlineExpert tutor supportRecognised qualification

About this qualification

The Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) is the full assessor qualification and the one most employers ask for. It combines the assessment knowledge unit with both practical units, so you are qualified to assess in the workplace and in classroom or training settings. You will plan assessments, make and record judgements against standards, give developmental feedback, and meet internal and external quality-assurance requirements — evidenced by assessing real candidates. Studied entirely online with a dedicated tutor.

Please note: this course is not eligible for government student finance (Student Loans Company funding).

At a glance

Qualification level
Level 3
Qualification type
Certificate
Total Qualification Time (TQT)
150 hours
Credit value
15 credits
Guided Learning Hours (GLH)
84 hours
Minimum age
19 years
Assessment method
Portfolio of written evidence plus assessment of real candidates in the workplace and in training settings
Awarding organisation
Focus Awards (Ofqual-regulated)
Ofqual qualification number
603/2276/5
Typical completion
3 to 6 months

Units and modules

  1. Understanding the principles and practices of assessment

    3 credits · 24 GLH · Written assignment

  2. Assess occupational competence in the work environment

    6 credits · 30 GLH · Portfolio and observed practice

  3. Assess vocational skills, knowledge and understanding

    6 credits · 30 GLH · Portfolio and observed practice

What’s included

  • Registration with Focus Awards
  • All three units and assessment
  • Portfolio templates and worked examples
  • Dedicated tutor support until you pass
  • Digital certificate on completion

Entry requirements

  • Aged 19 or over at enrolment
  • A good standard of written English (equivalent to Level 2)
  • Access to at least two candidates you can assess in a real workplace
  • Access to learners you can assess in a training or classroom setting

Awarded by Focus Awards

Focus Awards

This qualification is awarded by Focus Awards, an awarding organisation recognised and regulated by Ofqual. You can confirm the qualification, including its Ofqual number 603/2276/5, on the public register before you enrol.

View on the Ofqual register

Why choose Britannia Qualify

  • Nationally recognised

    Awarded by Focus Awards and regulated by Ofqual — recognised by employers across education and training.

  • Expert tutor support

    A dedicated tutor gives written feedback on every submission and stays with you until you pass.

  • Study at your own pace

    Fully online, no fixed timetable — built around work and other commitments.

  • Transparent pricing

    One fee covering registration, materials, assessment and certification. Pay in full or over six interest-free months.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. It is a national qualification awarded by Focus Awards and regulated by Ofqual, so it is recognised by employers across the education and training sector. You can confirm it on the Ofqual public register before you enrol.

Learner reviews

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4.6
4.6

8 verified reviews

  • 5★63%
  • 4★38%
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  • Priya N.5 Sept 2026 · Verified purchase
    5.0

    I needed CAVA for a new role and the practical units were well explained. My assessor was responsive and the observation was straightforward to arrange.

  • Laura B.27 Aug 2026 · Verified purchase
    5.0

    The competence units were well explained and arranging the two observations was straightforward. My assessor gave really practical feedback.

  • Mark T.20 Aug 2026 · Verified purchase
    4.0

    Took me about four months around shift work. Would have liked a few more worked examples but the tutor filled the gaps whenever I asked.

  • Sadia K.10 Aug 2026 · Verified purchase
    5.0

    The split between the knowledge and competence units made sense and arranging observations was easy with my manager on board.

  • James W.26 Jul 2026 · Verified purchase
    4.0

    Dense in places but the templates for planning assessments saved a lot of effort. Finished in about five months.

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