Higher National Qualifications - Higher National Qualifications

October 30, 2025

100 Years of Higher National qualifications in Scotland

In 2025, Higher National qualifications – Certificates and Diplomas (HNCs and HNDs) are marking their centenary. Over the last 100 years, these qualifications have changed names, formats, and mediums, but their core purpose has remained the same: to equip learners with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the workplace, helping employers meet industry needs, and together, contributing to Scotland’s economy and society.

Categories: Grading

megancrawford 0

September 12, 2022

NextGen:HN – Reflections one year on

Valerie Innes, Head of Next Generation Qualifications and Standards reflects on the past year and looks forward to the next phase of the project. I joined SQA in May 2021 on a two-year secondment from the University of the Highlands and Islands. I first engaged with the Next Generation Higher National (NextGen: HN) project as a member of the External Reference and Steering Group, and working on this project seemed like the next naural next step. My one-year anniversary at…

Categories: Pilot

SQA 0

June 16, 2022

NextGen: HN webinar series – Learning for Sustainability: the journey so far captures centres’ interest and enthusiasm

Julie Parker, New Product Development Manager, reflects on a recent webinar presented by Donna Clark, Learning for Sustainability (LfS) strand lead at SQA. The webinar showcased the commitment to identifying opportunities for developing the knowledge, understanding and skills of Learning for Sustainability within all qualifications. What is Learning for Sustainability? The overarching concept of sustainability includes three central pillars – social inclusion, environmental protection, and economic growth. Donna referred to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that incorporate…

Categories: Learning for Sustainability, LfS