What are NOS and why are they important?
NOS describe the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to do a particular job to a nationally recognised level of competence.
NOS form the basis of qualifications and training programmes required to work in social services in Scotland and to register with us.
For example, when you do an SVQ the performance criteria and knowledge and understanding that you are assessed against are all based on NOS.
That’s why it is important that we review the NOS to make sure that they are up to date and reflect the skills and knowledge that is needed in different roles, and current practice.
What will the review involve?
The review will assess evidence on the skills and knowledge requirements for different roles, and identify what needs to change in the NOS. To do this, we want to talk to as many people as possible as part of the initial review so we can find out what is important to you.
There will also be a formal consultation in summer/autumn 2025 before the updated NOS are finalised in December 2025.
Get involved
We have a Stakeholder Advisory Group which will meet online, twice a year to provide guidance on the project.
We will also have a NOS Development Group. Members will meet every six weeks from August 2024 to look at the detail of the NOS and take on practical tasks to support the review.
We plan to host an engagement event in October 2024.
We will keep everyone updated in SSSC news and on social media.
If you would like to find out more about the Stakeholder Advisory Group or the NOS Development Group, please email nosreview2025@sssc.uk.com.