Assessing key skills
To be awarded a key skills qualification in application of number, communication or ICT, a candidate must pass two assessment components.
These key skills are assessed through a combination of an externally set and marked test (or achievement of a recognised proxy qualification) and an internally assessed, externally moderated evidence portfolio.
Achieving the two components at different levels
Candidates who achieve the two components (portfolio and test) at different levels gain the qualification at the lower level achieved. So a candidate who passes the test at level 2 but whose portfolio only meets level 1 requirements can be awarded the qualification at level 1.
Candidates who fail either component at any level won't automatically be awarded achievement at the next level down. In such cases, they can be awarded a lower level qualification by:
- sitting and passing the test at a lower level (or achieving a proxy qualification for the test at that level)
- getting their portfolio reassessed against the lower level requirements.
Evidence portfolios
Evidence is presented for assessment in a portfolio, which is usually a file or folder. The evidence requirements are described in part B of each of the key skills standards documents. Each portfolio should include an index to show where each evidence requirement has been met.
Any verifiable way of showing that the candidate has met the requirements can be included in the portfolio. This is usually in the form of documents, but can also include other forms of evidence such as audio and video recordings, models and photographs.
Evidence doesn't have to come from candidates' education and training programmes. It can be drawn from any area of their life including study, employment and leisure activities.
Portfolio evidence can be presented in English, Welsh or Irish (Gaeilge).
Tests
The external tests assess candidates' ability to independently apply the key skills. The tests are developed centrally and administered and marked by awarding bodies. Tests should be completed within a fixed time and under supervised conditions.
Download key skills test specifications and example test papers.
There are no tests for the key skills 'improving own learning and performance', 'problem solving' and 'working with others'. These are assessed solely through an evidence portfolio.
Last modified: 11 May 2010
