Qualifications explained

Understanding Senior Phase qualifications:

Foundation Apprenticeships are available to S5 pupils capable of studying at Higher level.  Many of our Foundation Apprenticeships are two-year programmes, and pupils will typically attend college and a work placement with a local employer. College and universities recognise FAs as equivalent to SQA Higher qualifications. To find out more about Foundation Apprenticeships please visit Apprenticeships.Scot

Nationals 4s, National 5s and Highers: These are exactly the same as the Nationals and Highers you will study in school. Our offer simply provides you with greater choice if you don’t have access to the course in school. 

National Progression Awards prepare you for employment, career development or further study in a variety of specialist vocational areas.

Skills for Work courses are designed to prepare you for the world of work. They offer practical experiences linked to careers.

Scottish Vocational Qualifications form part of the Modern Apprenticeship framework. The Foundation Apprenticeship includes SVQ units so you will already have a head start.

Degree modules: We have a selection of modules available for pupils in S6 to provide a taste of what it’s like to study a first-year university degree module. 

Higher National units form part of a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND). These qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge for employment or Higher Education.

Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework

Our Senior Phase programmes are certified by the Scottish Qualifications Authority. The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework explains SCQF levels and helps you understand the difficulty of a programme.