Gateway Qualifications strives for repeat success, having been shortlisted for four Federation of Awarding Bodies 2024 Awards- after last year’s triple triumph.
Being recognised by FAB is no small feat. This esteemed ceremony is a highlight in the calendar, shining a spotlight on the exceptional contributions made by awarding organisations over the past year.
Our nominations reflect the wide-ranging impact of our work. Gateway Qualifications has been named as a finalist for:
- Awarding Organisation of the Year
- Qualification of the Year for our Level 1 Award in Cybersecurity
- Innovation of the Year for our funding tool
- Learner of the Year, recognising the achievement of Erin at Hugh Baird College
Awarding Organisation of the Year
In this, our 10th year as Gateway Qualifications, we are on track to support over 100,000 learners in an academic year, a significant milestone for our charitable objective to widen participation.
We remain the market leader for digital literacy, supporting 30,000 learners since 2020 and this year becoming the first AO approved for Digital Functional Skills (DFS).
Our success has led to expansion into End-point Assessment (EPA).
Our continued growth is underpinned by robust research to ensure we understand the sector and our offer from our Centres’ perspective. The insights provided demonstrate where we are doing well, especially with efficient support and problem-solving.
Qualification of the Year
Cyber-attacks are increasing; there is a huge demand for knowledge and skills at all levels to protect individuals and organisations.
Our Level 1 Award in Cybersecurity was specifically created to address the urgent and growing need for an essential cybersecurity qualification.
The qualification equips learners with the knowledge to recognise and respond to common cyber threats such as phishing, malware, and ransomware, covering essential topics like safe internet practices and the basic principles of securing data and systems.
It is fully resourced, allowing for seamless integration into existing programs without requiring significant additional resources or training. This ease of implementation has facilitated widespread and rapid adoption, with Centres like Kirklees College reporting substantial improvements in cybersecurity practices among their learners and staff.
Assessment includes practical assignments, ensuring that learners can apply their knowledge in ‘real-world’ settings and written and online tests. It is structured to be accessible, with resources and support provided to Centres, allowing for seamless delivery and integration into existing programs.
To support inclusive take-up, we ensured that no specific software or hardware is required – it doesn’t matter whether a learner has a Google smartphone, or an Apple MacBook.
Innovation of the Year
A new, free funding tool supports Centres navigating the biggest change in adult education funding in a decade; switching from the Adult Education Budget to the Adult Skills Fund in 2024 -2025.
This shift impacts curriculum planning, with some qualification funding rates increasing, some staying the same, and others going down.
Centres have to navigate multiple systems and consult Awarding Organisations to confirm 2024-2025 qualification availability.
Our tool simplifies the process, streamlining the steps into one comprehensive, interactive ‘spreadsheet’ that consolidates funding information for all of our qualifications, including Access to HE Diplomas.
We showcased the tool alongside AELP at this year’s national conference. It’s freely available to use on our website.
Its user-centric design ensures ease of use, allowing Centres to find relevant funding information quickly.
The tool is divided into separate tabs for nationally funded qualifications and other qualifications that could be funded by the loans system or devolved regions, which is particularly valuable for supporting local skills needs. This enables users to access precise and relevant information, aiding in strategic planning and decision-making.
Centres already benefitting from the tool report significant time savings and increased confidence in accessing funding information.
Learner of the Year
Being shortlisted in this category brings immense pride to our organisation as everything we do is ultimately for the benefit of learners.
Despite facing significant personal challenges, including cerebral palsy and extensive bullying, Erin’s unwavering optimism and commitment to learning truly set her apart as an inspirational figure.
Erin’s learning journey has been fraught with setbacks; initially rejected by mainstream education due to her needs and shuffled between inappropriate school environments, she faced consistent adversity. Yet, Erin’s resilience has only fuelled her determination to excel.
Now in its 9th year, the FAB 2024 Awards dinner is being held at the end of the first day of the FAB Conference, on 25th November.