The IPF adopts the following levels of vocational training, which are based on current best practices and recommendations from international organizations such as UNESCO, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the European Qualifications Framework (EQF):
Level 1: Beginner
Objective: This level aims to introduce the basic skills needed to perform simple tasks in a specific field. Learners acquire basic practical skills and a fundamental understanding of their sector.
- Target audience: Young people entering the workforce, individuals without qualifications, or unskilled workers seeking access to the labor market.
- Examples of certifications: Basic Qualification Certificate, Level 1 Training Certificate.
- Skills developed: Basic safety, basic understanding of tools and techniques, elementary knowledge of materials, introduction to work standards.
Level 2: Fundamental
Objective: Learners acquire operational skills for technical assistance or execution tasks under supervision in a specific work environment.
- Target audience: Unskilled or low-skilled workers wishing to develop skills for assistant or technician positions.
- Examples of certifications: Level 2 Professional Diploma, CAP (Certificate of Professional Aptitude) in some countries.
- Skills developed: Basic technical skills, ability to perform tasks under supervision, awareness of safety and quality standards.
Level 3: Intermediate
Objective: Learners gain intermediate mastery of technical skills, enabling them to carry out specialized tasks independently, though under indirect supervision.
- Target audience: Technicians or operators with some experience who wish to move into roles with intermediate technical responsibility.
- Examples of certifications: Technician Certificate, Level 3 Professional Diploma.
- Skills developed: Specialized technical skills, ability to adapt to diverse work environments, solving simple problems, understanding production processes.
Level 4: Technician
Objective: Train learners in advanced technical skills and initial supervisory competencies for positions such as lead technicians or team leaders.
- Target audience: Experienced technicians seeking to move into supervisory roles or entry-level production engineering positions.
- Examples of certifications: Higher Technician Diploma, Advanced Professional Certificate, BTS (Advanced Technician Certificate).
- Skills developed: Small team management skills, resolution of complex technical problems, operations coordination, application of advanced quality and safety standards.