Qualification updates - July 2026

Welcome to our qualification updates for July 2026. We're pleased to bring you the latest updates on qualifications this month. This edition covers a range of changes, including new qualifications, amendments to qualification structures, extensions following review, document updates and qualification withdrawals.

Updates:

Qualification Name: SVQ Performing Engineering Operations at SCQF Level 5 (Qualification Code: GR6W 45)

Type of change: Amendment to Qualification Structure

We have recently reviewed and updated our SVQ in Performing Engineering Operations at SCQF Level 5 to ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of industry and supports learners' progression effectively.

As part of this review, industry stakeholders were engaged to assess the relevance and usage of the current qualification structure. This has led to the removal of 12 units that were identified as being underused and no longer aligned to current industry practice. In their place, we have enhanced the qualification by:

• Introducing selected Level 6 units to broaden knowledge and skills development.
• Adding new content in Land-based Engineering, reflecting growing sector demand.
• Strengthening the overall structure to better prepare learners for progression.

These improvements ensure the qualification remains fit for purpose, providing learners with the skills and knowledge that employers value today while supporting clearer progression routes.

Importantly, the revisions enhance progression from the Performing Engineering Operations SVQ at SCQF Level 5 to the EAL Diploma in Engineering at SCQF Level 7, supporting all three Engineering Modern Apprenticeship frameworks in Scotland. This creates a more coherent and streamlined learner journey, benefiting apprentices, employers and providers.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Engineering Maintenance (Qualification Code: 501/0544/9)

Type of change: Extension Following Review

The EAL Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Engineering Maintenance (501/0544/9) is a competency-based, work-based qualification. It validates technician-level skills in electrical, mechanical or fluid power maintenance, requiring learners to demonstrate occupational competence in the workplace.

Designed for roles such as Maintenance Engineer, it supports the safe and effective maintenance of equipment and systems while enabling progression within the engineering and manufacturing sector. Following review, this qualification has been extended until 31 July 2029, when it will next be reviewed.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 NVQ Extended Diploma in Engineering Maintenance (Qualification Code: 600/2084/2)

Type of change: Extension Following Review

The EAL Level 3 NVQ Extended Diploma in Engineering Maintenance is a competency-based, work-based qualification. It validates technician-level skills in electrical, mechanical or fluid power maintenance, requiring learners to demonstrate occupational competence in the workplace.

Designed for roles such as Maintenance Engineer, it supports the safe and effective maintenance of equipment and systems while enabling progression within the engineering and manufacturing sector. Following review, this qualification has been extended until 31 July 2029, when it will next be reviewed.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 1 NVQ Certificate in Rail Engineering Track Renewals (Qualification Code: 601/3836/1)

Type of change: Extension Following Review

The EAL Level 1 NVQ Certificate in Rail Engineering Track Renewals is a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) suitable for learners aged 16–18 and 19+. It is designed to demonstrate fundamental workplace competence, safe working practices and basic track maintenance skills.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 2 Intermediate Diploma in Electrical Installation (Qualification Code: 601/4561/4)

Type of change: Extension Following Review

This qualification has been reviewed and extended in England and Northern Ireland.

The following documents have been updated and will be available via Online Services:

• Qualification Specification
• Amendment Document
• Unit documents for NELEC2/01, NELEC2/04, NELEC2/05A and NELEC2/05B

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification (Qualification Code: 601/7345/2)

Type of change: Extension Following Review

This qualification has been reviewed and extended in England and Northern Ireland. It has also been added in Wales as a regulated qualification.

The following documents have been updated and will be available via Online Services:

• Section 6.4 of the Qualification Specification
• Amendment Document
• KSB Mapping

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in the Servicing and Maintenance of Portable Fire Extinguishers (Qualification Code: 603/7133/X)

Type of change: Extension Following Review

This qualification has been reviewed and extended in England.

The following documents have been updated and will be available via Online Services:

• Qualification Specification
• Amendment Document
• Controlled Knowledge Assessment documents for FE3/01 Paper A

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Technical Specialist in the Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment (Award) (Qualification Code: 610/3908/1)

Type of change: Extension Following Review

The EAL Level 3 Technical Specialist in the Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment (Award) (610/3908/1) has been extended until the end of September 2026.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in Thermal Imaging for Inspection and Diagnostics (Qualification Code: 610/7488/3)

Type of change: New Qualification

The EAL Level 3 Award in Thermal Imaging for Inspection and Diagnostics is a Vocationally Related Qualification (VRQ) designed to meet the Level 3 knowledge requirements for those working in the thermography industry and its supply chain.

It provides essential understanding of how infrared (IR) sensors are prepared and applied across construction, engineering and manufacturing. The qualification highlights the role of IR technology in condition monitoring, preventative maintenance and quality assurance, supporting operational efficiency and asset management.

It offers both a strong introduction for newcomers and a solid foundation for experienced professionals looking to enhance their expertise.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in the Initial Verification and Certification of Electrical Installations (Qualification Code: 600/4337/4)

Type of change: Only Document Updates

Clarification on expected learner literacy and numeracy levels has been added to Section 5.3 of the Qualification Specification, and examination pass marks have been added to Appendix 2.

Updated documents are available via Online Services.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 2 Diploma in Manufacturing (Knowledge and Skills) (Qualification Code: 603/3589/0)

Type of change: Only Document Updates

No changes have been made other than the correction of a typing error.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Electrotechnical in Dwellings (Qualification Code: 610/1335/3)

Type of change: Only Document Updates

Section 6.4 of the Qualification Specification has been updated. An updated Amendment Document reflects this document change.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS 7671:2018 (Qualification Code: 610/7005/1)

Type of change: Only Document Updates

Clarification on expected learner literacy and numeracy levels has been added to Section 5.3 of the Qualification Specification.

Updated documents are available via Online Services.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 3 Award in the Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electronic Security Systems (Qualification Code: 610/7046/4)

Type of change: Only Document Updates

Clarification of learner literacy and numeracy requirements has been added to Section 5.2 of the Qualification Specification.

Updated documents are available via Online Services.

Qualification Name: EAL Level 2 Oil and Gas Industry Operations (Development Competence) (Qualification Code: 610/4124/5)

Type of change: Qualification Withdrawal

The EAL Level 2 Oil and Gas Industry Operations (Development Competence) (610/4124/5) has been withdrawn from the EAL portfolio due to low demand for this qualification.

Explore our qualifications library