As you progress through your HNC or HND course, we would like to remind you of the alternative assessment approaches in place for 2021-22, which consider the impact of COVID-19.
These modifications were made by SQA in consultation with the Higher National and Vocational Qualifications (HNVQ) Group*, on which colleges and learners are represented.
Changes to assessment were based on maintaining the integrity of qualifications and ensuring fairness for learners, and we continue to work alongside the HNVQ Group to ensure this is being achieved.
How are HNVQs being assessed in 2021-22?
SQA have provided lecturers with flexibility around how you will be assessed this year, taking into account the challenges to learning posed by COVID-19.
Where it’s not possible to assess you ‘normally’, your college will make alternative assessment arrangements.
These alternative arrangements will vary between subjects, but may involve:
- alternatives to face-to-face assessment; or
- combining assessments within, and across the various Units that make up your course
Alongside HNC and HND qualifications, these arrangements apply to: SQA Advanced Certificates and Diplomas, Professional Development Awards, National Progression Awards, National Certificates, Skills for Work, Awards and internally-assessed NQ Units.
Your lecturers will keep you informed on the assessment arrangements in place for your course.
How are graded units being assessed in 2021-22?
Your college will decide whether you will complete the unit assessment within the graded unit element of your HNC or HND, as was the case in 2020-21.
If your college decides that you will not complete the assessment, they can base your grade on evidence of your learning that will generate as you progress through the qualification.
You will be certified for the full award, and there will be no change to the number of SCQF credit points achieved.
Where can I find more information on what’s happening with HNVQs this year?
You can find more information on our website and by following us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
How are Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) being assessed in 2021-22?
For SVQs and other qualifications regulated by SQA Accreditation or Ofqual, the changes to assessment put in place in 2020-21 will remain in place in 2021-22, in response to COVID-19
Your employer, training provider, school or college, will be able to provide more information about how specific qualifications will be assessed.
Higher National and Vocational Qualifications Group
*The Higher National and Vocational Qualifications Group is represented by the Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES), Colleges Scotland, the College Vice Principal Forum, Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), Educational Institute of Scotland – Further Education Lecturers’ Association (EIS-FELA), the National Union of Students (NUS), the Scottish Funding Council, the Scottish Government, the Scottish Training Federation, Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), Skills Development Scotland (SDS), and Student Partnerships in Quality Scotland (SPARQs).
