New National Qualifications

Curriculum for Excellence represents a different approach to learning in schools. It aims to help pupils to develop skills and knowledge in more depth which they can use across different subjects and gain abilities they can apply to life outside the classroom.   This fresh approach to learning needs new assessment methods and qualifications.

The new qualifications will have equal status and credibility to those currently available and will support the new curriculum. The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) has developed the new National Qualifications, building on the Experiences and Outcomes of the broad general education (which takes place up to the end of S3).

The development and implementation of the new qualifications is on track. SQA published the final course, unit and assessment specifications for the 197 new National Qualifications at National 2 to 5 and Higher levels on 30 April 2012.

Simultaneously, Education Scotland published a suite of practical advice and guidance for teachers and lecturers to support them in preparing for implementing key aspects of the new qualifications.

Further support and guidance on the new qualifications will be made available over the coming year in advance of the introduction of the new qualifications in schools from 2013-14.