We have redeveloped our Entry Levels for first teaching from September 2016 and first assessment from May 2017. We've specifically tried to ensure through our development process that these qualifications can be co-taught alongside new GCSE (9-1) qualifications offered by any awarding body, across any timespan you wish.
How are the Entry Level Certificates assessed?
All of our Entry Level Certificates are made up of 100% internally assessed tasks and tests that can be taken at any point during the course. We will provide set coursework tasks and tests. In some instances it may be possible to tailor or write your own tasks for your candidates. You can find more details on our assessment tasks in the specifications.
How can the Entry Level Certificates be taught?
Many centres choose to co-teach Entry Level qualifications alongside GCSEs where they are unsure of how their learners may perform at GCSE (9-1). By entering learners for Entry Level Certificates, who may not be able to access the GCSE, you can try to ensure that your learners come away with a qualification at the end of their study.
The most important thing to consider is whether you will have a dedicated Entry Level cohort, or intend to co-teach the Entry Level qualifications with GCSEs (9-1).
Many centres choose to teach Entry Level Certificates before learners embark on their GCSEs, for instance as a preparatory course in year 9, or as a stepping stone throughout years 9-11 to support their KS3 and KS4 learning. If you are not planning to offer GCSEs at your centre, the Entry Levels can be used as “taster” courses, or perhaps even for “stretch and challenge” earlier on in KS3.