David Redden from NCFE shares some key information on what’s coming and what to expect from the new Digital Functional Skills qualifications.
David writes: “Ofqual have recently released a progress table showing which Awarding Organisations have submitted an interest in delivering Digital Functional Skills qualifications (DFSQs) and what stage they are at in the journey. To help understand what these qualifications are we wanted to share some key information that shows what is coming. We also have a webpage that links to the key documents and information that you need to be aware of should you be thinking of running this qualification. It is important to note the purpose of these qualifications and where they have come from. Here are some key points about DFSQs:
- Part of the DfE plan to improve adult digital skills
- Replace the existing Functional Skills ICT and sit alongside Essential Digital Skills qualifications (EDSQs)
- Likely to be funded as part of existing Functional Skills qualifications but no formal confirmation
- Aim to provide reliable evidence of learners’ achievement against content relevant to work and life
- Provide a foundation for progression into work or further education and develop skills for everyday life
- Subject content will be based on the new national standards for essential digital skills to increase comparability across Awarding Organisations
- Offered at Entry 3 and Level 1, have a Pass/Fail grading and involve 55 GLH
- Assessed online: Entry 3 can be internally or externally assessed; Level 1 externally only
- First teaching will start on the 1st of August 2023.
NCFE will be producing a full package for centres that includes:
- Initial/Diagnostic Assessments
- Individual Skills Plans and online learning resources
- Teaching and learning resources
- Prep to teach events and full subject specialist on boarding support
- On demand external assessments and results in 6 working days
To ensure providers are up to speed and fully supported for the launch of the new qualification in August we are keen to engage with as many of you as possible to share resources, initial assessments, sample assessments and understand your requirements for support. Should you be interested in being part of this exciting project please get in touch with davidredden@ncfe.org.uk and we will ensure you are involved. Please note this invite is open to all centres regardless of who you work with currently.”
Read the latest status update on DFSQs and view more key information from Ofqual.
