Occupational Standards

Occupational Standards are statements of the skills, knowledge and understanding needed in employment and clearly define the outcomes of competent performance. Many professions have recognised and approved National Occupational Standards (NOS) which can be matched to similar roles.

Occupational standards have numerous uses in the workplace and these include:

For the individual

• Helping to ensure that role holders skills and knowledge match a job description
• Assisting in providing evidence for an appraisal / staff development review
• Detailing competences, knowledge and skills for use at interview
• Assisting in matching skills and knowledge for a promoted post
• Providing key roles when updating a CV
• Assisting staff in meeting CPD requirements

For the Employer/Business/Organisation

• Identifying professionals that are capable, competent and well trained
• Contributing to organisational goals and service provision
• Informing the design and delivery of staff training programmes
• Planning for staff development and retention