Skills for Work: Laboratory Science National 5 (SCQF level 5)
National 5 Skills for Work: Laboratory Science is an introductory qualification. The course provides a broad experiential introduction to laboratory science. Learners will explore a variety of industries and services, and career opportunities, in science laboratories locally, nationally, and globally.
They will develop the basic practical skills and knowledge needed for working in a laboratory: measuring, weighing and preparing compounds and solutions; and health and safety requirements. Practical skills in microbiology, measuring radioactivity, chemical handling and laboratory instrumentation will be developed.
Learners will work with others to produce a plan to undertake a practical investigation to test scientific hypotheses. This will also involve reporting of the results, conclusions and evaluations of the investigation.
Throughout all units the course emphasises the employability skills and attitudes valued by employers which will help to prepare learners for the workplace. Learners will review their own employability skills, and will seek feedback from others on their strengths and weaknesses.
At SCQF level 5, learners work alone or with others on straightforward tasks with support.
Alternative assessment guidance
This subject will not have alternative assessment guidance for session 2023-24. You should refer to the Group Award/Unit specifications for detailed delivery and assessment information. For general support on delivery and assessment see the HNVQ assessment guidance 2023-24.
Qualification structure
Group Award code: C781 75 (24 SCQF credit points)
SCQF level: 5
The Skills for Work Course in Laboratory Science consists of four mandatory units.
For further information on the structure and units of this qualification please refer to the course specification document.
How to assess
There is no external assessment for this course. Learners must successfully complete each unit to achieve the course.
Unit specifications provide detailed information on the evidence requirements for each unit. The unit support notes provide information on approaches to assessment for each unit.
The units are internally assessed by centres and externally verified by SQA.
Qualification Verification Summary Report
- 2023 Qualification Verification Summary Report Laboratory Science (153 KB)
- 2022 Qualification Verification Summary Report Laboratory Science (156 KB)
- 2021 Qualification Verification Summary Report Laboratory Science (159 KB)
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Additional resources session 2022-23
New – new materials not previously published
Updated – amended for 2022/23
Carried forward – carried forward to 2022/23
Where can you take this course?
Why study this qualification
This qualification is suitable for a wide range of learners including:
- pupils from mainstream schools or other education establishments
- school leavers
- adult returners to education
- learners in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
- learners participating in 16+ programmes
- college students wishing to develop their skills and knowledge in relation to Laboratory Science
- trainees participating in preparation for entering employment
- individuals involved in voluntary activities
Access
Entry is at the discretion of the centre.
Employment and progression
Successful learners may progress to:
- National Courses or Units
- Further/higher education
- vocational training
- employment
Qualification structure
Group Award code: C781 75 (24 SCQF credit points)
SCQF level: 5
The Skills for Work Course in Laboratory Science consists of four mandatory units.
For further information on the structure and units of this qualification please refer to the course specification document.