Key Skills Business Definition

DEFINITION

1. Key Skills are a range of qualifications across all levels that are considered to be essential to success in education, employment and life in general.

DESCRIPTION

2. There are three main areas of key skills that all learners are expected to aim towards;

• Application of Number
• Communication
• Information and Communication Technology

3. In addition, there are three wider key skills areas that are separately funded under Unlisted Provision;

• Improving Own Learning and Performance
• Problem Solving
• Working with Others

4. In some cases, the knowledge and skills gained in a Key Skills qualification can overlap that gained in a different aim. In these cases, where a learner can show proof of achievement in a recognised alternative course, exemption can be claimed from the relevant areas of the Key Skill being studied. These recognised courses are listed on the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) web site as Proxy Qualifications.

LINKS

5. Further information, standards and guidance can be found on the QCA web site.

Last date modified: 6th November 2008