National Occupational Standards (NOS) are the skills, knowledge, and understanding required to perform a particular job role competently. For example, the role of a chief of the NOS will outline the skills needed, such as preparing dishes with precision and flair and essential health and safety practices. This ensures that chefs across the country maintain consistent proficiency and safety standards. In the construction industry, NOS specify the competencies needed for roles like bricklaying or carpentry. They cover practical skills such as precision in measurements and safety compliance on-site, which are vital elements contributing to quality craftsmanship and workplace safety. The NOS for carers outline skills such as moving people safely, taking medication, empathising, communicating, safeguarding, infection control, health and safety, equality, and working in partnership with others.
These standards ensure that learners acquire relevant competencies that meet industry demands. They also help to bridge any gaps between education and employment. Employers also use the NOS framework when assessing staff capabilities and performance.
NOS are benchmarks used to develop learning outcomes and assessment criteria for most qualifications. National Occupational Standards bodies not only support individual career development but also contribute to broader economic growth by promoting and enabling a skilled workforce ready to tackle present and future challenges.
Examples of National Occupational Standards bodies
National Occupational Standards bodies are expected to work with stakeholders such as employers and regulators to develop the skills, knowledge and competencies required for each job role in their sector. Below is an example of some NOS:
Skills for Health is a body that oversees NOS within the healthcare sector. Their standards ensure healthcare professionals possess the necessary competencies to deliver safe and effective care. A similar related NOS is Skills for Care, which oversees the social care sector. Skills for Care endorses all recognised qualifications for registered managers and care workers in social care.
Creative Skillset manages NOS for creative industries such as film, television, and fashion. By setting clear expectations for skills like digital marketing or visual effects artistry, they help nurture talent that can thrive in competitive creative fields.
Lantra focuses on land-based industries, including agriculture and environmental conservation. Their oversight ensures that individuals working within these sectors have practical skills essential for sustainable practices.