Norway – Training services – Parallel framework agreement for research and further development of quality and execution of the professional and craft test.

Every year approx. 30,000 persons go up to the vocational test in Norway. The trade and craft test is decisive for trust in the certificate of apprenticeship as documentation of competence achieved. In order to maintain this trust, the test must be of high quality and considered relevant, and candidates must be assessed according to agreed professional standards that are used as consistently across disciplines, test committees and geographical areas as possible. The aim of the framework agreement is to ensure the necessary flexibility, professional breadth and capacity to follow-up the development of the test over time. The agreement also covers the competence test, which is a final assessment for training candidates. The work included in the framework agreement shall contribute to obtaining knowledge, further development of the test, increased quality and a more uniform assessment practice, so that trust in the certificate of apprenticeship and craft certificates as proof of competence is maintained. The work shall be carried out in close cooperation with the contracting authority and relevant actors in vocational and vocational training when necessary to understand problems and ensure professional anchoring, as well as develop implementing and evaluating measures. This can include dialogue with counties, the social work parties, professional advice, test committees and other relevant environments. Further clarifications will be in each call-off. We expect that there will be a continual need for development work, testing, evaluation and professional support during the contract period.