I saw something about this issue in IR119 which I have a copy (althougt I cannot find it anymore in the IR website) which states that when the NVQ cannot be applied there is what is called an "alternative route" which effectively works exactly in the same way as the previous NVQ scheme. I cannot provide more details now, but I can provide the text later on if that is of interest. There is also a number to call for more information. The only thing I remember is that it applies to over 30's only and for full time or substancially(?) full time study.
Anyone heard of this "alternative route"?
TheNavigator