Frequently Asked Questions


Q. How many teaching periods per week are necessary to fulfil the requirements of this specification?

A. There are no minimum or maximum recommendations. Your centre will need to decide how many teaching periods are needed to deliver the whole course.


Q. How useful is Entry Level Home Economics to students?

A. Entry Level Home Economics is designed for students who typically have not reached Level 3 of the Northern Ireland Curriculum by the end of Key Stage 3 and for whom GCSE and equivalent vocational qualifications are not yet considered appropriate. It rewards students who might otherwise leave school without any recognition of their achievement in Home Economics.

Through studying Entry Level Home Economics, students develop self-confidence and skills in practical cookery and learn how to manage resources. They also learn how to think critically, evaluate information and make informed choices.


Q. Can students use the Entry Level Certificate as a foundation for further study?

A. Entry Level Home Economics provides an excellent foundation for
further education in Home Economics, Child Development, Health and
Social Care and Hospitality and Catering.


Q. Can teachers set their own practical activities for Part A and Part B of the internally-assessed assignment?

A. Yes, teachers are free to set their own activities, but these must fulfil
the necessary criteria (see Guidance for Teachers on Internal
Assessment in the full specification.)


Q. Can I make special arrangements for students with specific physical difficulties?

A. Yes, some students will require extra time or assistance from a scribe or reader to compete the written paper. The head teacher must use their discretion to make special arrangements.

We will provide enlarged examination papers for visually impaired students, but you must apply for these. Contact us for further information.


Q. Is there overlap with the content of Entry Level Home Economics and GCSE Home Economics?

A. Yes, there is overlap between the subject content of Entry Level Home Economics and GCSE Home Economics and GCSE Home

Economics (Child Development). However, the depth of the knowledge and understanding required for Entry Level is less than that required for GCSE.


Q. Can a student be entered for both GCSE and Entry Level Qualification?

A. Yes, if they fulfil the requirements of both specifications.


Q. How can I query a student’s final result?

A. Your head teacher must contact us within 14 days of the publication of results.


Q. How is the coursework moderated?

A. Our moderators examine samples of the internally-assessed assignment. These samples are drawn from each centre in accordance with instructions issued by us. The sample coursework is representative of a range of attainment.


Q. Will my centre be informed of the outcome of the external moderation process?

A. Yes, we will send your centre information about the moderation process and how this affects your students’ performance.