The team has recently updated the diagram that summarises the portfolio of vocational Computing qualifications. You can download a PDF version: Vocational Computing portfolio As you can see, there’s been a lot of development work relating to CBQs, with more qualifications coming. The Next Gen project is modernising a number of Higher National Qualifications, including the introduction of a new qualification in data science. A new NPA in Esports has recently been developed and there are a couple of new National…
Read moreRead more about Vocational Computing qualifications
February 20, 2023 - Bobby -
This time last year, I posted a message about our planned use of Yammer during 2022. In that message, I explained that we had (successfully) used various (free) mailing lists to communicate with you but that these all, eventually, stop working and that we planned to move all support to Yammer since this is included in Microsoft 365 subscriptions and is part of Glow, the school network. Also, since it’s backed by Microsoft, it’s unlikely to go the way of…
Read moreRead more about Yammer network
February 9, 2023 - Bobby -
One of the big changes that are part of Next Gen is the introduction of grading to modernised Higher National Qualifications (HNQs). Currently, one unit (the Graded Unit) is awarded a grade (A, B or C), the other units are ungraded (pass/fail). Next Gen introduces whole-qualification grading. One of three grades will be awarded: Achieved. Achieved with Merit. Achieved with Distinction. Learners will be awarded HNC Computing: Achieved with Merit (for example). Different subjects are trialling different (but similar) models. Computing…
Read moreRead more about Grading in the new Higher Nationals
January 26, 2023 - Megan -
At SQA, we’re committed to supporting centre development and we are hosting a Quality Network Event on 15th February from 1pm – 3pm for schools, colleges, employers, and trainer providers. The virtual event will focus on diplomas. There will be updates on our current options and information on our new developments, such as our new Diploma in Digital Technology at Level 8. We will also help centres prepare for the new awards coming this year. If you would like to…
Read moreRead more about Quality Network Event
January 26, 2023 - Bobby -
Regular readers will know that Skills Development Scotland (SDS) has commenced a review of the existing Competence Based Qualifications (CBQs) in Computing. SDS is working closely with employers to ensure that the new qualifications are relevant in the workplace. This work commenced last year, when SQA developed three new CBQs at SCQF Level 8. Diploma Digital Technology: Cyber Security SCQF Level 8 (GT8Y 48) Diploma Digital Technology: Data Analytics SCQF Level 8 (GT90 48) Diploma Digital Technology: Software Development SCQF…
Read moreRead more about Vocational qualification (CBQ) developments
January 17, 2023 - Megan -
As you know from previous posts, we have been developing a new National Progression Award in Esports at Levels 4,5&6. I’m pleased to let you know that we have now published the 9 new units for this NPA, please see them linked below: 1. Esports: The Esports Industry at SCQF Level 4 (J73V 44) https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/files/nq/J73V44.pdf 2. Esports: The Esports Industry at SCQF Level 5 (J73Y 45) https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/files/nq/J73Y45.pdf 3. Esports: The Esports Industry at SCQF Level 6 (J743…
Read moreRead more about NPA Esports Units
January 16, 2023 - Megan -
As previously mentioned, we were in the process of developing a Guide to Assessment for the new Diploma in Digital Technology pathways. We are pleased to announce that this new guidance document has now been published, please find the link to this below: Assessment Guidance – https://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/files_ccc/assessment-guidance-digital-technology-gt8y48-gt9048-gt9148.pdf Please contact me if you have any questions.
Read moreRead more about Diploma in Digital Technology – Assessment Guidance
January 10, 2023 - Bobby -
I received an enquiry this morning about Next Gen so I thought that this is a good time to update you about developments. The Next Gen initiative will bring big changes to Higher National Qualifications (HNQs). Computing was one of the first subjects to get involved. The work has been completed in two phases. In phase 1 we developed two new qualifications: HNC Computing HND Data Science. These developments were completed in mid-2021 and available to pilot in August of…
Read moreRead more about Next Gen update
January 9, 2023 - Bobby -
Me and my team would like to welcome you back after the Christmas and New Year holiday. If you’ve not already, I encourage you to read the review of 2022 that I posted just before Christmas. In that post, I alluded to some challenges that the team faced last year, particularly the time we took to finalise some developments. That’s something that we’re determined to improve on this year (2023). Last year was exceptionally busy and I’m hoping for a…
Read moreRead more about Happy New Year
December 22, 2022 - Bobby -
It’s become something of a custom for me to end the year with a review of the year so I’ll do that today since SQA closes tomorrow for Christmas. I kicked-off the year with a post about Next Gen when I announced the start of the second phase of developments that involved HND Computer Science, HND Networking & Cloud Infrastructure, and HND Software Development. This work has undoubtedly been the team’s biggest project this year. Amy joined the team (to…
Read moreRead more about Review of 2022