An Introduction to Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQ’s) 
 
In today’s fast-evolving technological landscape, higher technical qualifications are more crucial than ever. Whether you're looking to enhance your current career or pivot into a new and exciting industry, understanding the value and opportunities provided by higher technical qualifications is the first step towards achieving your professional goals and staying competitive in a technology-driven world. 

Interested to find out more? 

Key Facts: 
Duration: 7-12 months - course dependent 
Start Date: September 2024 
Study Modes: Fully remote, live training sessions, self study assessments 
Entry Requirements: Course dependent 
Cost:  
CMI Diploma in Operational Management - Introductory Offer £900*, full price £1800.  
NCFE Diploma: Data Analyst - Introductory Offer £500*, full price £1400. 
 
* T&Cs apply 
 
Register now to receive our HTQ brochures and to chat with the team. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

  1. What is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)? 

Technical Qualifications at Higher Levels (HTQs) are specialised credentials categorised as Level 4 and 5, positioned strategically to serve as a bridge linking A/T Levels with full university degree programmes.  
 
Typically developed in collaboration with employers and industry experts, HTQs ensure that the curriculum aligns with current and future workforce requirements. They focus on imparting precise training, essential knowledge, and practical skills that are directly applicable to specific career paths. This ensures that learners are well-prepared to meet the expectations of their prospective professions, making them valuable candidates in the job market. 

 2. Why are HTQ’s being introduced? 

In the United Kingdom, there is a growing demand for skills at levels 4 and 5, but the number of people achieving these qualifications is relatively low compared to other countries. The Department for Education is aiming to build a high-quality system of technical education to ensure that students gain the necessary skills and knowledge for their careers, and so that both employers and learners alike can be assured that someone who achieves an HTQ will have had the training they need to succeed. 
 
It’s hoped that HTQs will help to address skill shortages, increase productivity and, ultimately, improve the UK economy. These qualifications have been developed by awarding bodies in collaboration with employers so students can develop the skills that employers want. They are also Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) approved qualifications. 

 3. What are the benefits of HTQ’s? 

Learners 
HTQs can give learners the confidence to be able to acquire the skills prospective employers are looking for. For a wide range of learners they offer considerable flexibility with the opportunity to study part time, with or without an employer. They're a great way to continue their educational journey, get a good job or learn new skills and move up the career ladder. They also offer a high-quality alternative to other routes, such as apprenticeships, traineeships or degrees  
 
Employers 
Employees who gain these Higher Technical Qualifications can bring a wide range of benefits to any organisation, from boosting productivity and innovation to enhancing employee satisfaction and retention. By investing in a technically skilled workforce, companies can achieve greater efficiency, maintain high standards of quality and safety, and secure a competitive edge in their industry. HTQs are available to existing staff, identify the future managers and data gurus and take advantage of these great qualifications at even better prices. 

 4. Who are HTQ’s for? 

You can apply for a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) whilst still in school, but you need to be 18 years or older to begin the programme. HTQs are offered only in England. They may be a good fit if you're looking to train for a skilled job or if you're employed and want to boost your career prospects by upskilling or retraining. 

 5. What HTQ subjects can you study with Fareport Training? 

Fareport are excited to be launching two new Higher Technical Qualifications in September 2024! 

NCFE Diploma: Data Analyst  

Designed for learners who want to begin or advance their career within data analysis across all types of industries. It covers interpreting data to drive and inform decisions and exploring data visualisation.  
Legislation and security standards  
Data fundamentals and lifecycle 
Data structure and databases 
Stakeholder engagement and user experience 
Organisational data 
Data mining and statistical analysis 

CMI Diploma: Operational Management 

Designed to support individuals in the development of management and leadership skills for practising managers and leaders. The programme covers 6 modules: 
Developing, Managing and Leading Teams 
Stakeholder Relationships 
Managing a Project 
Managing Change 
Operational Planning 
Personal and Professional Development 
 

 6. What does the NCFE awarding body say about HTQ’s? 

 
All NCFE’s proposed Higher Technical qualifications (HTQs) have been designed from scratch to meet the defined purpose of HTQs, that is to align to existing occupational standards, providing learners with entry-level competence and allowing them to enter their chosen profession or progress onto higher education. 
 
In line with Ofqual’s definition of fitness for purpose, and with NCFE’s approach to good quality qualification and assessment design, we aim to balance key principles of assessment along with stakeholder needs in any development. 

 7. What does the CMI awarding body say about HTQ’s? 

 
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are level 4 or 5 qualifications that have been quality marked by the Institute For Apprenticeships & Technical Education (IfATE) to indicate their alignment to employer-led occupational standards.  
 
New or existing level 4 or 5 qualifications submitted to IfATE’s approvals process will receive a quality-mark if the qualification satisfies IfATE's approvals criteria. HTQs align to approved occupational standards and allow learners to enter their chosen profession or progress onto higher education. 

 8. Why study a HTQ with Fareport Training? 

Fareport Training was established in 1981 in order to offer young people a route into work through work based training. In 2014 the business was purchased with support from entrepreneur Theo Paphitis by Natalie Cahill and Marinos Paphitis. Since then we have been building on Fareport's excellent reputation for high quality training and delivering training and apprenticeships across England. We are proud to offer: 
 
Expert-Led Instruction: Gain insights from industry leaders and seasoned professionals. 
Cutting-Edge Curriculum: Stay ahead with the latest trends, tools, and techniques. 
Flexible Learning Options: Balance your education with your professional and personal life. 

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 9. How do you study a HTQ with Fareport Training? 

Depending on the subject area you choose; you may have various options for how you study. We deliver our Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) fully online with live training sessions on a part time basis - typically on a monthly basis but the learning sessions are course dependent. We proud ourselves on being flexible and adaptable to individuals learning requirements so please always discuss this us.  

 10. How much does it cost to study a HTQ? 

The costs for HTQs via on which course you choose to do - the costs can be covered by an individual or an employer. As we are launching our first HTQs in September we are offering early learners fantastic prices. We can offer payment terms, please register your interest to find out more.  

 11. What are my options after gaining a HTQ? 

HTQs provide a pathway into skilled positions across various industries. They also offer opportunities for you to retrain or advance in your current job. Alternatively, you might choose to pursue further education, such as undertaking an undergraduate degree on a full- or part-time basis. 

 12. How do you apply for a HTQ run by Fareport Training? 

Our team is currently finalising the course details to ensure we provide a comprehensive and impactful learning experience. In the meantime, please let us know you are interested and we will make sure we get in touch with you as soon as possible. 
Address 
Westfield House 
Fareham 
Hampshire 
PO16 0DH 
Phone 
01329 825805 
Email 
For Learners / Apprentices - info@fareport.co.uk 
Opening hours 
Monday - Friday: 8am - 4pm 

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