NPA Administration: Office Skills and Services SCQF level 5

The National Progression Award (NPA) in Administration: Office Skills and Services at SCQF level 5 is designed as a programme which will provide candidates with theoretical knowledge and also allow them to have hands on experience of key pieces of office equipment, develop communication skills with internal and external customers and improve skills in locating, retrieving and presenting required information.

The qualification structure and Unit content provides a vocational and relevant curriculum which creates and promotes effective articulation and transition into further and higher education, whilst simultaneously recognising and supporting skills for industry and future employment including the soft skills demanded by employers.

This qualification is available through schools and colleges.

Qualification structure

Group Award code: G9CF 45 (18 SCQF credit points)

NPA in Administration Office Skills and Services at SCQF level 5 (178 KB)

Structure

Candidates must complete all three Units below to achieve the NPA at SCQF level 5

  • Front of Office Skills — J4YS 45
  • Practical Office Skills and Technologies — J4YT 45
  • Researching and Preparing Presentations — J4YX 45

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How to assess

Centres can choose the order to teach and assess the Units, according to their local market needs and resources. It may be beneficial to have two or three Units taught at the same time to allow integration of teaching and assessments.

The Units are practical and assessment will be a combination of assessment of practical tasks and closed book assessments. It is recommended that centres refer to the evidence and assessment requirements for each Unit.

Assessment Support Packs are available on SQA's website for all three Units which will reinforce the practical aspect of the Unit specification, as well as setting a common standard across centres.

Deliver this qualification

Why study this qualification

It is envisaged that the following groups would be targeted:

  • school leavers
  • adult returners
  • employees wishing to enhance their qualifications
  • potential students looking for access to HN
  • full-time students looking for 'added value'
  • migrant workers

Employment and progression

Some centres may consider candidates who have successfully completed both this NPA and the NPA in Administration: Information and Technology and Audio for progression onto an HN in Administration and Information Technology or alternatively into the Professional Development Awards in IT in Business and Administration at SCQF level 7.

Possible career opportunities could include:

  • Administrative Assistant
  • Office Junior/Receptionist
  • Clerical Assistant

Access

While entry is at the discretion of the centre, candidates would benefit from some previous work experience in administration.

Qualification structure

Group Award code: G9CF 45 (18 SCQF credit points)

NPA in Administration Office Skills and Services at SCQF level 5 (178 KB)

Structure

Candidates must complete all three Units below to achieve the NPA at SCQF level 5

  • Front of Office Skills — J4YS 45
  • Practical Office Skills and Technologies — J4YT 45
  • Researching and Preparing Presentations — J4YX 45

Unit search