Key Skills
What are Key Skills?
Key Skills are those skills needed for you to be successful at college, at work and in your everyday life.
The Hard Key Skills are:
- Communications
- Application of Number
- ICT (Information Communication Technology)
The Soft Key Skills are:
- Working With Others
- Improving Own Learning and Performance
- Problem Solving
How will they be taught?
Key Skills are taught alongside your vocational subjects. All the tutors work together to make sure you cover all elements of Key Skills.
The skills may be embedded into a theory or practical session, or may be taught in a separate session, which is linked to your main subject. All our tutors as well as the dedicated key skills staff are aware of the importance of Key Skills and are there to help you achieve.
Do I have to do them?
Key Skills are an important part of your course so you will be expected to follow the appropriate level of programme.
Some learners may be exempt from certain parts but this depends upon your GCSE results. It is important that you bring your certificates with you when you start college in order to prove that you have achieved your GCSEs.
What is meant by "application"?
Part A of Key Skills looks at developing your background skills in literacy, numeracy and ICT.
Part B is in the form of an assignment that demonstrates that you are able to use your skills in everyday situations, linked to your vocational area.
How long does it take?
All Key Skill subjects are taught within one year.
What happens if I don't go to the lessons?
By not attending the lessons you will reduce your chances of success in Key Skills and in your main programme of study. Your non-attendance will also affect the learning of your friends and course-mates. Unauthorised non-attendance will result in disciplinary action.
What happens if I fail the test?
You will not be entered for the test until your tutor is confident that you are able to achieve. Anyone who is not successful the first time round will be given the opportunity to take a re-sit, free of charge.
What happens if I don't turn up to the test?
Of course, if you are not there, you will not achieve a vital part of your programme of study, so it is important that you make every effort to attend. You may be asked to repay the examination fee if you do not have a good reason for non-attendance.
Where can I find out more information?
During your time at college, your course manager or your Key Skills tutor are there to give you all the information you need. We also place additional information on the College's VLE (Virtual Learning Environment). You will be shown this as part of your induction during the first week at college.
However, you may find the following websites useful:
- www.bbc.co.uk/keyskills/
- www.keyskills4u.com/
- www.bbc.co.uk/skillswise
