Certificate/Diploma Learning and Development SCQF level 8 and 9

These qualifications enable the learner to demonstrate both underpinning knowledge and performance evidence of competence in a Learning and Development vocational area.

These qualifications are based on the most current version of National Occupational Standards, developed by Lifelong Learning UK (LLUK), Sector Skills Council (SSC).  

The Diplomas must be offered within a workplace environment.

The evidence demonstrating achievement of either of the qualifications must be generated assessed within a workplace environment.

The Diploma in Learning and Development at SCQF level 8 is suitable for trainers, facilitators, mentors, tutors, coaches, instructors or anyone working in a training or learning development role, with individuals or groups of learners.

The Diploma in Learning and Development at SCQF level 9 is aimed at senior trainers or training co-ordinators/managers who plan, deliver, implement and evaluate training programmes and/or have some management of direct trainers.

Candidates would be expected to have responsibility for planning, delivering and evaluating training.

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the centre. As these are work-based qualifications, candidates should be working in a training role to ensure they are able to generate the required work-based evidence.

For candidates whose first language is not English, it is recommended that they possess English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL) level 5 or a score of 5.5 in IELTS.

Specific delivery requirements

Centres interested in offering either of these qualifications must 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. The specific delivery requirements are set out in the Assessment Strategy.

Assessment is through performance in the workplace and simulation is not allowed. Evidence can be of three types:

• work produced by the candidate as part of their job
• work produced by others relating to the work that the candidate does
• witness statements produced by others about what the candidate has done

This evidence may be gathered by observed performance, products of work, witness testimony and personal statement, and presented as a portfolio of candidate work.