May 2015 update
This month's update has information about Functional Skills online practice tests, qualification review dates, 19+ funding, and more.
Thinking about Maths and English qualifications?
Maths
Are you familiar with our Edexcel Awards in Mathematics? Find out more in this short guide.
Maths and English
Our Edexcel QCF English and Maths Awards are nationally recognised Level 1 qualifications for learners who need to improve their skills in English and maths in order to progress to Functional Skills or GCSE qualifications.
Edexcel QCF Level 1 English and Maths Awards
New Functional Skills onscreen practice tests for Functional Skills English and Maths
You'll find them in the course materials for the relevant qualification.
ResultsPlus
ResultsPlus is a free online results analysis tool for teachers that gives you a detailed breakdown of your students’ performance in functional skills and all Edexcel exams. Learn more about ResultsPlus
Qualification review dates
We've had a number enquiries about the review dates for a number of qualifications. You'll find a list of qualifications and their renewal dates below. It's important to note that a review date is not an expiry date for the qualification. The review date is agreed with our regulators to ensure checks are carried out to keep the qualification fit for purpose.
19+ funding
We've secured funding for 2015/16 for the following 4 qualifications in the core WorkSkills suite. These qualifications appeared in the update on 22 July.
| QAN | Qualification name |
|---|---|
| 601/0689/X | Pearson BTEC Entry Level 6-credit Award in Workskills (Entry 3) |
| 601/0691/8 | Pearson BTEC Entry Level Certificate in Workskills (Entry 3) |
| 601/0690/6 | Pearson BTEC Level 1 6-credit Award in Workskills |
| 600/2394/6 | Pearson BTEC Level 1 Certificate in Workskills |
Traineeship rule changes
Young people aged between 16 and 19 can now claim JSA throughout their period on Traineeships - including those aged 18. This follows the abolition of the 16-hour rule on study time in Traineeships, and a relaxation of the rules surrounding work experience placements in August, allowing participation in work experience for up to 300 hours as opposed to a strict limit of 8 calendar weeks.
The SFA and EFA have removed the requirement for sub-contractors delivering Traineeships to hold an Ofsted Grade 1 or 2, enabling those with a Grade 3 to commence delivery as well. The new rules came into force from 1 April 2015.