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Entry level
Last updated: 20 Nov 2007
What is Entry level?
Entry level is the first level of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). It is divided into three sublevels: 1, 2 and 3, with 3 being the highest. These sublevels are broadly comparable with national curriculum levels 1, 2 and 3.
Why was Entry level developed?
Sir Ron Dearing, in his review of qualifications for 16- to 19-year-olds, recommended the development of qualifications at Entry level. The intention was to 'encourage and recognise achievement by a wider range of learners than at present'.
What qualifications are available at Entry level?
Qualifications at Entry level are called 'certificates'. These certificates are nationally recognised and meet stated criteria set out in The statutory regulation of external qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (2004).
At the moment there are over 100 Entry level certificates on offer in a wide range of subjects, including:
- national curriculum subjects such as English, science and mathematics
- vocational subjects such as retail, hairdressing and office practice
- general qualifications such as skills for working life and life skills
- basic skills such as adult literacy and adult numeracy.
QCA has been working with sector skills councils to ensure that Entry level vocational qualifications will provide a useful introduction to relevant working practices.
Many certificates are made up of a number of units. Each unit is assessed separately so that students' small steps of achievement can be recognised on the way to completing the full certificate.
There are no rules about which or how many units must be included in a certificate. This means awarding bodies can create certificates that meet the diverse needs of learners at this level. The units can also be at one or more of the Entry sublevels if it is appropriate.