International Vocational Qualifications (IVQs) by City & Guilds - how do they work?

Hello all,

I recently came across IVQs, the international equivalent of National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) by City and Guilds. I am interested, but I do not understand how the system works. I get the "competency-based" part: you need to be able to do something.

1) But how is that assessed, and who assesses it?

2) Can I go to my employer in the Netherlands and ask to help me get an IVQ? Or do I need to pick an organization from a particular list?

3) How much does it cost?

4) How much time is involved for me? For my employer? I read that an assessment center should schedule 6 hours time for a level 6 qualiication: how is that possible? Level 6 is comparable to a Master!

5) On the City and Guilds web site I see "units" mentioned: what are they, where are the syllabi, are there reading lists, do you need to take exams ... ?

6) Finally, to EU readers: does anyone know how recognized such a diploma would be? Would a EU, non-UK university accept an IVQ if I were to apply for, say, a master? Especially in some famously picky country when it comes to degrees, say France or Germany?

Thanks,

discwrites