Graded Units
We have reviewed our approaches to assessment for all qualification types, to help centres with assessment under the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
Following this review, we are removing the need to complete the assessment of Graded Units (exam-based and project-based) in HNC, HND and SQA Advanced Qualifications for session 2020-21.
A small number of exceptions exist, for example, where the qualification is linked with registration with a professional association or has mandatory responsibilities under a Qualification Partnership Agreement. See the full list of exceptions (59 KB).
What does this mean for centres?
- Grading will be determined by teaching staff directly involved in delivery and assessment using evidence generated during completion of the units in an award.
- Allowing more time to focus on teaching, learning and assessment.
- Reducing time spent on additional assessment required for Graded Units.
What does this mean for candidates?
- Candidates will receive a quality assured grade based on evidence generated during completion of the units in an award.
- Allowing candidates more teaching and learning time.
- Reducing time spent on additional assessment required for Graded Units.
- Candidates will be certificated for the full award.
- There will be no change to the number of credit points achieved by candidates.
Guidance for centres
We have published guidance for centres in gathering key evidence to support decisions on grading of Graded Units in HNs and SQA Advanced Qualifications in session 2020-21:
The decision to remove the need for candidates to complete Graded Units for 2020-21 was made as part of our support package to centres during this challenging time, to further increase flexibility with approaches to assessment and reduce time spent on assessment-related activities.
We are aware that some assessment plans and related activities may already be underway in centres so, where this is the case, centres can continue with arrangements which best suit the teaching, learning and assessment needs of deliverers and candidates. We hope delivering staff and candidates can benefit from this flexibility.
Further information on the adaptation to Quality Assurance activity will be communicated to all centres prior to qualification verification selections being released to centres.
Enquiries should be directed to: operationshnvq@sqa.org.uk.
Graded Unit specifications are available on the HN Unit Search.
