Key Skills at Stockport College

What are Key Skills?

There are six Key Skills units:-

• Communication
• Application of Number
• Information Technology
• Problem Solving
• Improving Own Learning and Performance
• Working with Others

Key Skills are those general skills that can help you to improve your own learning and performance in education and training, work and in every day life.

They are nationally recognised qualifications designed to help you show the skills you have and the way you apply them. They are valued by many employers, who are often looking for more than academic qualifications. Key Skills also give you UCAS points towards entry to universities.

 

Who is allowed to take the Key Skills awards?

All students at Stockport College may take the Key Skills awards, which are compulsory for students between 16 and 19 years old and anyone on a Modern Apprenticeship. If you have not achieved grade C in GCSE English, Maths or ICT you will be required to work towards L2 Key Skills. This will be taught by a tutor from your main course and a Key Skills tutor. Assignment work will be related to your course so you will develop skills within a subject that interests you.

What do they involve?

Each Key Skills unit is assessed on its own and you will take them at the level that suits your own ability (Levels 1, 2 or 3).All 6 units involve the completion of a 'portfolio of evidence', while Communication, Application of Number and Information Technology also involve nationally set tests.

Tutors will help you put together your portfolio of evidence and prepare for the tests - this will be part of your main course of study and it will be fully related to your main subject. Feedback on progress will be given at regular reviews and Parents' evenings.

For more information, ask your Tutors or speak to the Skills for Life Unit situated on the ground floor of the George Wood building Ext 3109.