What is the difference between Cache and NVQ?
What is the difference between Cache and NVQ?
Created: 15-February-2023Updated: 31-August-2025
You’ll see CACHE and NVQ everywhere when searching for Teaching Assistant (TA) courses. Both can be recognised on the RQF (Regulated Qualifications Framework) when regulated by Ofqual — but they aren’t the same thing.
This guide gives you a clear, 5-minute comparison and a simple decision path. Our default recommendation for most learners is the NCFE CACHE “Supporting Teaching & Learning” (STL) route, with competence-based (NVQ-style) options as an alternative if your school specifically prefers them.
What is CACHE?
NCFE CACHE designs qualifications specifically for childcare, education, and school support roles. For Teaching Assistants, the common pathway is Supporting Teaching and Learning at Levels 2–4 (Award, Certificate, Diploma).
- Focus: education-specific knowledge (child development, safeguarding, inclusion) + practical competence.
- Assessment: assignment work, plus in-school evidence for Certificate/Diploma routes.
- Why schools know it: strong brand recognition in schools; content maps closely to TA practice.
What is an “NVQ” (competence-based) route?
NVQ refers to a competence-based style of qualification assessed in the workplace. Many current RQF titles don’t literally say “NVQ”, but follow the same approach: you evidence that you already perform the role to a defined standard.
- Focus: proving on-the-job performance against set criteria.
- Assessment: observations, witness statements, work products, reflective accounts (no theory exams).
- Typical awarding bodies: City & Guilds, Pearson (competence-based STL titles).
CACHE vs NVQ at a glance
| Feature | CACHE (NCFE CACHE) | NVQ-style (Competence-based) |
|---|---|---|
| Designed for | Education support & child development | Any vocational role (mapped to TA standards) |
| Assessment | Assignments + placement log (for Cert/Dip) | Workplace portfolio only |
| Placement needed? | Awards: usually no. Certificates/Diplomas: yes. | You must be working/volunteering in a school |
| Best for | Career-changers, returners, aspiring TAs | Current classroom staff with strong evidence |
| School recognition | High (education-specific brand) | Accepted when RQF-recognised and well-evidenced |
| Progression | Clear routes to L3 Diploma and HLTA/L4 | Progress via higher competence-based levels |
Which do schools prefer?
Both are accepted when they’re RQF-listed and Ofqual-regulated. In practice, schools instantly recognise CACHE; competence-based (NVQ-style) options are great for staff already in post. To verify any course, use the official database: Ofqual Register.
Need a primer on regulation? See RQF, NCFE CACHE & Ofqual — Why They Matter.
How to pick the right path (3 quick questions)
1) Are you already working (or volunteering) in a school?
Yes: Our default recommendation is NCFE CACHE Certificate/Diploma in Supporting Teaching & Learning. If your school specifically prefers a competence-based awarding body, a recognised City & Guilds or Pearson STL (NVQ-style) can also be suitable.
No: Start with a CACHE Award (knowledge-only, no placement) to build foundations, then move to a CACHE Certificate/Diploma once you secure a placement.
2) Do you need speed or depth?
Speed: Level 3 Award (knowledge-only) is quicker to complete.
Depth: Level 3 Certificate/Diploma (with placement) strengthens classroom competence and supports progression to HLTA.
3) Will you support SEND/EYFS?
If you’re aiming at SEN or Early Years, the education-specific content in CACHE is a popular choice with SENCOs and EYFS leads. See What Does an SEN Teaching Assistant Do?.
Verification & recognition
- Confirm the qualification is on the RQF and regulated by Ofqual.
- Search the official database: Ofqual Register.
- Read our explainer: RQF, NCFE CACHE & Ofqual — Why They Matter.
Next steps
- Compare Level 2 vs Level 3 vs HLTA.
- Check if your route needs a placement: Do I Need a Placement?.
- Plan evidence: Portfolio & Evidence.
- Get application-ready: TA CV & Cover Letters and Interview Questions.
Useful Guides & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CACHE an NVQ?
No. CACHE (now part of NCFE) is an awarding organisation offering education-specific qualifications. “NVQ” describes a competence-based assessment style; many RQF titles follow this approach without using “NVQ” in the name.
Which do schools prefer — CACHE or NVQ-style?
Both are accepted if RQF-listed and Ofqual-regulated. CACHE has very strong recognition in schools; NVQ-style routes suit those already working who can evidence competence quickly.
Can I start at Level 3 without Level 2?
Yes. Many adult learners start at Level 3. Choose an Award (no placement) or a Certificate/Diploma (with placement) depending on your situation.
Do I need a placement?
Knowledge-only Awards (often CACHE) usually don’t need a placement. Competence-based (NVQ-style) and CACHE Certificates/Diplomas typically do. See Do I Need a Placement?.
Are City & Guilds or Pearson competence-based STL options accepted?
Yes — when they’re on the RQF and Ofqual-regulated. Always verify on the Ofqual Register.
How do I check a course is recognised?
Confirm it’s on the RQF and regulated by Ofqual (search the Ofqual Register) and read our plain-English explainer.