FAQs

Depending on their performance in the assessment, learners can achieve:

• an award at NQF Level 2 (the same level as a GCSE at A*–C);
• an award at NQF Level 1 (the same level as a GCSE at D–G); or
• a CCEA First Skills Certificate at Level 3, Level 2 or Level 1.

All assessment is through learner portfolios. (There are no external examinations.) Tutors set practical assignments that allow learners to show evidence of their learning. These tasks should provide the opportunity to produce and test the range of skills described in the unit content. Methods of assessment might include, for example, observation of work activities, examination of work completed, records, oral questioning and/or practical demonstrations.

To achieve an award in Occupational Studies, a learner needs to complete two units chosen from one of six qualifications available.

A single unit on its own does not make up a qualification, and from September 2010 it is no longer possible to take a double award qualification.

Units are divided into six qualifications:

• Design & Creativity;
• Technology & Innovation;
• Construction;
• Business & Services;
• Environment & Society; and
• Engineering & Engineering Services.

For details on the units in each qualification, see the full specifications.

Learners can select only two units from their chosen area to achieve a qualification.

Learners can take a maximum of six qualifications in Occupational Studies (a total of 12 units).

A learner cannot choose to take the same unit twice in different qualifications; however, some titles appear in two subject areas to give greater flexibility. For example, it would be possible to choose:

• Carpentry & Joinery 1 with Digital Music to achieve a qualification in Technology & Innovation at Year 11; and
• Carpentry & Joinery 2 with Plumbing 1 to achieve a qualification in Construction at Year 12.

We will bank the marks of any completed units logged with us and, after a learner has completed two units from the same occupational area, we will award a qualification. They do not have to take both of the units in the same centre.

We recommend a minimum of 75 hours for the delivery of a unit.

As well as skills specific to each subject area, Occupational Studies can provide opportunities in some units for learners to develop the following Key Skills at Levels 1 and 2:

• Application of Number;
• Communication; and
• Information and Communication Technology.

It also provides opportunities in all units for learners to develop and generate evidence for the following wider Key Skills while building their portfolios:

• Working with Others;
• Problem Solving; and
• Improving Own Learning and Performance.