PDA in Hydrogen: An Introduction for Technicians at SCQF level 7

Professional Development Awards (PDAs) extend or broaden professional or vocational skills. The PDA in Hydrogen: An Introduction for Technicians at SCQF level 7 covers areas such as safe hydrogen gas handling and operating principles of a hydrogen facility.

This qualification is available through colleges. It has been designed to be delivered as a taught course and will normally be available as a combination of workshops and self-directed study.

The PDA in Hydrogen: An Introduction for Technicians at SCQF level 7 was developed in partnership with employers and industry so it is suitable for the current sector.

It will help employers meet skills gaps and provide continuing professional development for staff, while learners will gain knowledge and skills needed for progression in the workplace. It can also be offered to people who are in training and who wish to gain employment in the sector.

The unit-based structure aids timetable flexibility. Units are typically 40 hours of learning and they can be delivered on a full-time or part-time basis.

The PDA in Hydrogen: An Introduction for Technicians at SCQF level 7 is suitable for anyone looking to enhance their skills in hydrogen technologies to meet the requirements of the growing Scottish and European hydrogen industry. It is particularly beneficial for those who already have a background in engineering disciplines such as: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Systems, Manufacturing Engineering or Measurement and Control Engineering.

Access

Entry to this qualification is at the discretion of the centre. However, learners would benefit from having attained the skills, knowledge and understanding required by one or more of the following or equivalent qualifications and/or through experience.

  • NC or HNC in a related discipline, which could include but is not limited to Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Systems, Manufacturing Engineering and Measurement and Control Engineering.
  • at least one Higher level pass, with appropriate supporting passes at National 5 or equivalent in appropriate subjects, preferably including Maths, English, and/or a Science subject.
  • SVQ in an Engineering discipline, which could include but is not limited to Mechanical, Manufacturing or Electrical Engineering.

Work experience

Mature learners with suitable relevant work experience may be accepted for entry, or advanced entry, provided that the enrolling centre believes that the learner is likely to benefit from undertaking the qualifications. Centres may wish to use Core Skills profiling to assist them in this process.

The PDA in Hydrogen: An Introduction for Technicians at SCQF level 7 could provide the opportunity to progress to other Engineering PDAs and HN qualifications. Successful completion of the qualification could also open up more employment opportunities and career prospects in the sector.

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority will need to come forward for approval and should contact SQA’s Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA’s general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide.

Each unit specification gives detailed information on the evidence requirements and approaches to assessment for the unit.

Group award code: GT2L 47 (24 SCQF credit points)

Structure

The PDA in Hydrogen: An Introduction for Technicians at SCQF level 7 consists of three mandatory units.