Professional Development Awards (PDA)

PDAs are usually designed for those already in a career or vocation who wish to extend, broaden or enhance their skills. However, sometimes they are designed for those wishing to enter employment and can be delivered in a variety of settings. PDAs assess and certificate progression in a defined set of specialist occupational skills. They may also be embedded within another qualification such as an HNC/HND.

PDAs are made up of Units and have specific aims that relate to occupational areas and are linked to National Occupational Standards. They sit on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at Levels 6 - 12.