Key Skills
Key skills is a qualification giving an opportunity to students to develop communication, number and IT skills. The qualification is at level 3 and involves students completing a test in March and a portfolio by Christmas of the Upper Sixth year. Each of the students should take at least one key skill and this should be either a contrast to, or an enhancement of, their AS level studies. Communication involves taking part in assessed discussions and presentations, and completing written work for a portfolio. Application of Number involves the treatment of statistics using an individual study. IT involves developing skills learnt at GCSE but is a practical application of computer skills. The portfolio work will evolve naturally in some subjects, but where students undertake a contrasting Key Skill they may be offered a stand-alone project held after the main AS examinations. Key Skills assessment is undertaken at universities in their degree level courses. Key Skills provide valuable preparation for future employment.
