What is the purpose of this qualification?
This qualification is primarily aimed at learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities or with Special Educational Needs or Disability (SEND) who need a structured programme of learning to support their personal and social development.
What skills, knowledge, or understanding does this qualification develop?
This qualification includes a broad range of skills which will support a learner’s personal growth and increase their independence in adult life, including areas such as independent travel, self-advocacy, personal safety and developing relationships. There are no mandatory units, enabling learners and providers to work together to select units appropriate to the individual’s needs, interests and aspirations for the future, in line with the aims of the SEND reforms.
How is this qualification different from other, similar qualifications?
There is a Gateway Qualifications Award, Certificate, Extended Certificate and Diploma in Personal and Social Skills. The Award is designed to meet the needs of learners, including those on 16-19/25 study programmes, who wish to combine a small amount of accredited learning with a broader unaccredited programme tailored to their personal goals. It is also suitable for learners, such as those on the autistic spectrum, who may be operating at a much higher level in other areas (e.g. academic subjects) but who need to target specific areas of personal development. It is particularly suitable for learners with more complex needs, where it is beneficial for their programme to be specifically focused on a carefully selected core skill set, relevant to their specific needs.
Which sector does this qualification support?
This qualification is not intended to lead directly to employment, although for the small numbers who may progress into a (supported) entry-level job role, the skills covered will be of use in any employment context.
What are the progression options?
Learners can progress from this qualification to further Entry level learning in the area of personal and social skills, including, for example, to the Gateway Qualifications Entry level Certificate in Personal and Social Skills (Entry 3). They may also be able to progress to qualifications focused on developing employability skills such as the Gateway Qualifications Entry level Certificate in Preparation for Employment (Entry 3).
Progression & Entry Requirements
Learners do not need any prior qualifications or specific level of attainment to take this qualification and it is available to learners of any age.
