After several years of running two sets of Entry level qualifications in parallel, we are now withdrawing the older set. The withdrawal date will be 31st July 2019, with the last certification date of the 31st December 2019. The qualifications to be withdrawn are:
- Entry Level Award In Independent Living – Accessing Community Facilities (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Award In Independent Living – Household Skills (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Award In Independent Living – Leisure Activities (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Award In Independent Living – Personal Care (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Award In Independent Living – Personal Development (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Award In Independent Living – Rights and Responsibilities (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Certificate in Independent Living – Living in the Community (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Certificate In Independent Living – Looking After Yourself and Your Home (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
- Entry Level Diploma In Independent Living (Entry 1, Entry 2 and Entry 3)
There has been considerable change in the sector since our original Entry level qualifications were first developed: 16-19 study programmes have been introduced; the SEND reforms have been implemented; and supported internships have come on board. Although the employment rate for adults with learning disability is still unacceptably low, aspirations for employment have increased and societal attitudes are gradually changing. Our newer Entry level qualifications have been specifically designed to reflect all of these changes. They can be used to underpin dynamic, person-centred, progression-focused learning programmes which encourage learners, and those working with them, to aim high.
We have developed an Entry level suite with sufficient flexibility – through our open rules of combination, wide range of optional units, and lack of prescription around assessment and evidence requirements – to allow you to build programmes that work for you and your learners. We have focused on those skills that are most significant in achieving a fulfilling adult life, placing an emphasis on independence skills such as self-advocacy, decision-making, and getting on with others above domestic skills, and acknowledging that work is a realistic ambition for most Entry level learners.
We value Entry level learning very highly at Gateway Qualifications and are constantly striving to ensure our qualifications at this level are of the highest standards. We are already talking to centres about how to improve our newer qualifications: watch this space for latest developments!
We suggest that you explore our Personal and Social Skills qualifications as replacements for smaller Independent Living Skills qualifications (Awards or Certificates) that are being withdrawn, or our Skills for Independent Living Extended Certificate or Diploma as a replacement for Diplomas in Independent Living. All our newer Entry level qualifications are already available in a range of sizes at Entry levels 1, 2 and 3, with the exception of Personal and Social Skills, where the Entry 1 qualifications will be added shortly in time for delivery from September 2019.
If you would like advice on how to move over to our newer Entry level qualifications, please get in touch with your development manager or contact our Customer Excellence team (enquiries@gatewayqualifications.org.uk). We are confident that we will have something to meet your needs.