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AIM Qualifications Vocational Foundations for Learning

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Course 603/6258/3

Course version · 603/6258/3Version from Sept 2020Change version

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Version from Sept 2020603/0269/0 · AIM Qualifications Level 2 Award in Mathematics
Version from Sept 2020603/6258/3 · AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

Qualification Units

49 units

How this qualification is graded

Vocational qualifications are marked against criteria, not an exam percentage. Each unit is assessed across three bands - build up from Pass by applying your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios.

Pass

Accurately describe and explain the core knowledge for the unit and link it to the given scenario.

Merit

Apply and analyse that knowledge in detail, showing why it matters in the workplace context.

Distinction

Evaluate and justify decisions, weigh up alternatives and make well-reasoned professional recommendations.

Alcohol and Drug Misuse Awareness

This module introduces learners to the fundamental distinctions between various drugs and alcoholic beverages, exploring the personal and social factors that can lead to substance misuse. It examines the immediate physical and psychological impacts, the broader consequences for families and communities, and the health risks including withdrawal. Practical knowledge of support agencies empowers learners to seek help for themselves or others.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

7 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Basic Food Hygiene

This topic covers basic food hygiene, including safe food handling, personal hygiene, and knowledge of food hazards. Learners will understand how to prevent contamination and ensure food safety.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

Basic Food Preparation

This subtopic focuses on the fundamental skills required to prepare food safely and hygienically for cold presentation or cooking. Learners will develop practical abilities in washing, peeling, chopping, and measuring ingredients, while understanding the importance of personal hygiene and kitchen safety. These skills are essential for entry-level roles in catering and hospitality, providing a foundation for further vocational training.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Basic Performance Skills

This element introduces the fundamental concepts of performance, including understanding what constitutes a performance and the skills required. Learners will explore how to prepare effectively for a performance by taking on specific roles and responsibilities, and they will demonstrate these skills by performing in front of an audience. The focus is on building confidence, communication, and collaborative skills essential for employability.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes6 guidance points

Building a Three Brick Square Hollow Pillar

This practical subtopic introduces learners to the foundational bricklaying skill of constructing a three brick square hollow pillar, essential for developing hand-eye coordination and masonry technique. It focuses on safe tool use, accurate placement of bricks to create a stable structure with a hollow centre, and the importance of cleaning and storing equipment to prolong its life. Mastery of this task builds confidence for more complex construction projects in the employability sector.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes6 guidance points

Building a Three Course Half Brick Wall

This subtopic introduces the fundamental bricklaying skill of constructing a three-course half-brick wall, a core task in basic construction. Learners will develop practical competencies in using essential tools, following safe working practices, and producing a plumb and level wall. The focus is on accuracy, technique, and the proper maintenance of equipment to ensure efficiency and longevity.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes7 guidance points

Building Working Relationships with Colleagues

Building Working Relationships with Colleagues focuses on understanding the fundamental importance of positive workplace interactions and developing the practical skills needed to cooperate effectively with peers and line managers. Learners explore how respectful communication, teamwork, and professional conduct contribute to a productive work environment, personal well-being, and career success. This subtopic equips learners with the confidence to engage constructively in a team setting.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Career Preparation

This element introduces learners to self-reflection and career exploration at an early stage. It helps them identify their own strengths, interests, and achievements, and understand how these can connect to future job roles. Practical activities guide learners in using simple tools to find out about different careers and what might suit them.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Caring for a Child

This subtopic introduces learners to the essentials of caring for a child, focusing on physical care, appropriate clothing selection, and the significance of daily routines. It equips learners with practical knowledge applicable in babysitting, nursery assistant roles, or family settings. Understanding these fundamentals supports child safety, well-being, and healthy development.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

4 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Caring for Young Children and Babies

This subtopic introduces learners to the essential aspects of physical care for infants and young children, covering feeding, bathing, nappy changing, and safe sleep practices. It also addresses selecting appropriate clothing and footwear for different developmental stages and weather conditions, and emphasises how consistent daily routines support a child's security, development, and wellbeing. Practical skills gained are crucial for roles in early years settings.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes5 guidance points

Applying for a Job

This subtopic equips learners with foundational knowledge of job application processes, including methods like online portals, paper submissions, and telephone inquiries. It explores why employers rely on standardized application forms to assess candidates fairly and efficiently. Practical exercises focus on accurately completing a job application form, a crucial skill for employment readiness.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Carrying Out Plastering Operations

This subtopic focuses on the practical skills required for plastering operations at Entry Level 3, including preparation, execution, and post-work cleanup. Learners will develop the ability to set up materials and tools, apply plaster to surfaces, and maintain a safe and tidy work environment, reflecting real-world expectations in construction.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

3 learning outcomes7 guidance points

Check and maintain motor vehicle external lighting

This subtopic covers the practical skills and knowledge required to safely inspect, maintain, and rectify faults in a vehicle's external lighting system, ensuring roadworthiness and compliance with legal standards. Learners will understand the critical role of functional lights in vehicle safety and gain hands-on experience in checking bulbs, lenses, and connections.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Check that a Small Animal is Healthy

This element introduces learners to the fundamentals of assessing the health of a small animal through observation and safe restraint. It covers recognising visible indicators of wellbeing, such as coat condition and alertness, and the correct techniques for handling animals to minimise stress and risk. The skills developed are directly applicable to roles in animal care, pet shops, or veterinary support, promoting responsible animal husbandry.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Checking and Maintaining Car Tyre Pressures and Tread

This subtopic equips learners with the practical skills to safely check and maintain car tyre pressures and tread depth, ensuring roadworthiness and compliance with legal standards. Learners will develop competence in using tyre pressure gauges, inflators, and tread depth indicators, and will understand the importance of regular maintenance for vehicle safety and efficiency. The focus is on hands-on application in real-world or simulated garage environments.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes12 guidance points

Checking and Maintaining Fluid Levels on a Car

This element develops practical skills in inspecting, checking, and topping up essential vehicle fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer. Learners gain the confidence to perform routine maintenance safely, using correct equipment and procedures, which is a fundamental aspect of vehicle ownership and a valuable employability skill in automotive and service sectors.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes11 guidance points

Communication in the Workplace

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of workplace communication. It covers different ways of communicating, how to select appropriate methods for various types of information, and the practical application of communication skills in an employed setting. Understanding these basics is essential for effective teamwork, customer service, and following instructions.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Computer Security and Privacy

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of computer security and privacy, essential for safe digital participation. It covers practical steps to protect devices, data, and personal information from common threats such as viruses, phishing, and unauthorised access. Learners will understand the importance of regular updates and safe online behaviour to safeguard themselves and their families.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Cultivating Plant Cuttings

This subtopic introduces learners to the essential horticultural practice of propagating new plants from cuttings, a cost-effective method widely used in gardening and commercial plant production. Learners will develop practical skills in selecting healthy parent material, preparing stem cuttings, and providing the optimal conditions for root formation and growth. Through hands-on activities, they will also learn to follow step-by-step guidance, fostering attention to detail and responsibility crucial for employability in the green sector.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Customer Service in the Hospitality Industry

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamentals of customer service within the hospitality industry, focusing on why positive interactions are critical for business success and customer loyalty. It equips learners with basic communication techniques and an understanding of how personal presentation influences the overall customer experience. Practical skills are emphasised to prepare learners for real-world interactions in entry-level hospitality roles.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes6 guidance points

Customer Service Skills

This subtopic equips learners with the foundational principles of customer service, focusing on creating positive interactions, understanding customer needs, and effectively resolving complaints. It emphasizes the direct impact of service quality on business reputation and customer loyalty, preparing learners for entry-level roles in various sectors.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Applying for Jobs and Courses

This subtopic introduces learners to the process of applying for jobs or courses, focusing on the key steps, required personal information, and how to present qualifications and experience effectively. It also covers the selection of supporting documents and the completion of a simple application form with accurate details, preparing learners for real-world application procedures.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Cutting and Hanging Wall Coverings

This element introduces learners to the practical skills required for cutting and hanging wall coverings safely and effectively. It covers the selection and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools, measuring and cutting techniques for wallpaper, and the step-by-step process of hanging paper on a flat vertical wall. Emphasis is placed on maintaining a clean and safe work environment and proper tool maintenance to develop employability skills in painting and decorating or general maintenance roles.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

CV Writing

This subtopic introduces learners to the purpose of a CV as a tool for applying for jobs and courses. It covers the key types of information that should be included, such as personal details, education history, and any work experience. By the end, learners will be able to list the essential components of a CV appropriate for Entry Level 3.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

4 learning outcomes6 guidance points

Design and Imaging Software

This element introduces learners to the foundational principles and practical skills required to source, import, and manipulate digital images using design software. It focuses on developing competence in obtaining visual content ethically, applying editing tools correctly, and preparing images for intended purposes, thereby building essential digital literacy for employment contexts.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Developing Angling Skills

This element focuses on developing practical angling skills within a vocational context, covering the identification of different angling disciplines, essential regulations, health and safety protocols, and the competent use of equipment and bait. Learners will gain hands-on experience in selecting and applying appropriate techniques for a specific branch of angling, ensuring compliance with legal and environmental responsibilities. The content is designed to build confidence and employability through controlled practical activities and underpinning knowledge.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Developing Confidence Working with Animals

This element equips learners with essential skills for working safely and confidently with animals in a vocational context. It covers health and safety regulations, understanding and interpreting animal behaviour, and applying correct handling techniques to ensure both human and animal welfare.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Developing Performance Skills

This element equips learners with the knowledge and practical ability to prepare for and deliver effective performances in employability contexts, such as interviews, presentations, or workplace interactions. It focuses on identifying necessary skills, engaging in preparatory activities like planning and rehearsal, and executing performance skills with confidence and clarity.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Developing Skills for a Healthy Lifestyle

This element explores the foundational aspects of a healthy lifestyle, including physical fitness, nutrition, hygiene, and sexual health, emphasizing personal responsibility and action planning. It equips learners with essential knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their well-being, promoting long-term health and employability through self-management.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Digital Lifestyle

This subtopic introduces learners to core digital technologies that underpin modern lifestyle activities, including audio, video, and photography. It explores how these technologies are used in everyday contexts and highlights potential career opportunities for individuals with practical digital experience.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes6 guidance points

Explore Acting Skills

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental acting skills needed to bring a character to life on stage or screen. It covers the physical, vocal, and mental techniques actors use to develop a role and communicate effectively with an audience. Learners will apply these skills in a practical performance, building confidence and communication abilities essential for many employability contexts.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Exploring Performance

This subtopic focuses on developing the skills required to prepare for and participate in a performance task, including identifying necessary resources, following instructions, collaborating with others, and reflecting on personal performance. Learners will engage in practical activities that build confidence, teamwork, and self-evaluation skills essential for employability.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Assertiveness Skills

This element develops learners' ability to communicate assertively, enabling them to distinguish between passive, aggressive, and assertive behaviours. It equips learners with practical techniques to express their needs and opinions confidently while respecting others, fostering effective interpersonal skills crucial for employment and personal interactions.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes6 guidance points

Facial Cleanse, Tone and Massage

This element develops the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to deliver a professional facial cleanse, tone and massage treatment within a salon environment. Learners must demonstrate competence in preparing the workspace, selecting appropriate products, performing the treatment sequence safely, and restoring the area to a hygienic and orderly state. Mastery of these foundational routines is essential for progression in beauty therapy and employability within the industry.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

7 learning outcomes12 guidance points

Food Safety and Storage

This subtopic covers the fundamental principles of food safety and storage, essential for maintaining health and preventing foodborne illnesses in domestic and workplace settings. Learners will explore basic hygiene practices, appropriate storage methods for various food types, and criteria for identifying when food is no longer safe to consume. These skills are directly transferable to roles in catering, hospitality, and care industries.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes7 guidance points

Food, Drink and Cooking

This element introduces learners to basic food preparation and kitchen safety, focusing on essential utensils, cooking appliances, and the principles of balanced nutrition. Learners will develop practical skills in preparing a range of hot and cold drinks and simple snacks, building confidence for independent living and potential employment in catering or hospitality settings. Emphasis is placed on recognising foods that require no cooking and safely using equipment to create nutritious meals.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Garden Horticulture

Garden Horticulture introduces learners to the fundamental skills and knowledge required to successfully grow and maintain plants in a garden or allotment setting. This unit develops practical employability skills such as following instructions, working safely, and demonstrating responsibility through hands-on planting, care, and propagation activities.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Garden Maintenance Skills

This element introduces learners to the fundamental skills required for basic garden upkeep, including selecting and safely using appropriate hand tools. It covers practical techniques for maintaining plant health and garden tidiness, such as weeding, pruning, and watering. The topic also addresses responsible garden waste management, focusing on sorting, recycling, and environmentally friendly disposal methods.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Groom a Small Animal

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental skills for grooming a small animal, such as a dog, cat, or rabbit, at Entry Level 3. It focuses on safe preparation of the grooming environment, correct selection and use of tools, basic grooming tasks like brushing and nail care, and adherence to animal welfare and safety standards. Learners will gain practical experience while understanding the importance of hygiene and animal comfort.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

8 learning outcomes11 guidance points

Guest Services in the Hospitality Industry

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of guest services within the hospitality sector, focusing on teamwork and effective customer communication. Learners will develop practical skills for interacting positively with guests and colleagues, understanding the importance of creating a welcoming environment and handling basic customer enquiries in entry-level hospitality roles.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Hair Plaiting

This subtopic introduces learners to the foundational skills of hair plaiting, including preparation of tools, materials, and the client's hair, as well as executing simple plaiting techniques. It emphasizes health and safety, hygiene, and client communication, essential for entry-level roles in hairdressing or beauty therapy. Mastery of these basics builds dexterity and confidence for further vocational training.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Hairdressing: Introduction to Assisting a Stylist

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental skills required to assist a professional hairdresser during technical services. It focuses on preparing the client and work area, understanding the stylist's needs, and performing a basic shampoo service safely and hygienically. Practical application includes supporting the stylist to ensure a smooth, efficient service and a positive client experience.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

4 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Hairdressing: Introduction to Health and Safety

This subtopic introduces the fundamental health and safety practices essential for working in a hairdressing salon. Learners will understand how to identify hazards, follow salon procedures, and maintain a clean and safe working environment, while also upholding high standards of personal hygiene and professional appearance to ensure client safety and confidence. Mastery of these basics is critical for preventing accidents and infections in a salon setting.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Assist with Catching and Restraining a Small Animal

The subtopic focuses on the essential skills required to safely and humanely catch and restrain small animals, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, or small birds, as part of routine care or veterinary assistance. Learners will gain practical techniques for approaching, handling, and moving animals with minimal stress, while understanding the importance of animal welfare and personal safety. Mastery of these skills is foundational for roles in animal care, pet sitting, or veterinary support.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

4 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Hairdressing: Introduction to Working Relationships

This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental interpersonal skills required to function effectively in a salon environment. It covers assisting with reception duties, establishing professional rapport with clients, and collaborating respectfully with colleagues to ensure smooth salon operations.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Assisting at a Sport or Active Leisure Event

This subtopic introduces learners to the range of sport and active leisure events they may encounter, from local fun runs to professional tournaments. It emphasises the practical responsibilities of an assistant, including customer service, safety awareness, and teamwork. Through actual participation, learners gain hands-on experience and the opportunity to evaluate their own performance to foster employability skills.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

Audio and Video Software

This element introduces learners to the fundamental skills required for capturing, editing, and presenting digital audio and video content. Learners will operate basic recording devices and software to produce short sequences, developing practical competencies essential for entry-level roles in media, administration, or customer service. Emphasis is placed on using appropriate tools to create a clear, purposeful final product that meets given briefs.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

7 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Backstage Skills

This subtopic introduces learners to the essential health and safety protocols, terminology, and practical tasks involved in backstage operations for performances. Learners will demonstrate safe working practices, actively participate in backstage duties during a live performance, and reflect on their own skills and areas for development in a real-world setting.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

Basic Cooking

This subtopic focuses on developing foundational culinary skills for everyday life and employability. Learners gain practical experience in preparing simple meals, understanding kitchen safety, and following basic recipes. The emphasis is on building confidence and independence in a kitchen environment, essential for both personal wellbeing and entry-level roles in the hospitality and catering sectors.

AIM Qualifications Entry Level Award in Employability and Development Skills (Entry 3)

6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

Tips and common mistakes

Common Exam Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

•Confusing the effects of different drug categories (e.g., assuming all drugs cause sedation).
•Overlooking the psychological effects and focusing only on physical.
•Failing to link personal misuse to wider social implications.
•Not recognizing that withdrawal can be dangerous without medical support.
•Confusing use-by and best-before dates.
•Not washing hands after handling raw meat.
•Storing raw and cooked foods together.
•Not washing hands or tying back hair before handling food

Top Examiner Tips

Expert advice for exam success

•When describing differences, use clear examples such as comparing beer to spirits or cannabis to cocaine.
•For causes, provide a range including personal, peer, and societal factors to show depth.
•In questions about effects, always distinguish between short-term and long-term.
•Memorise at least two local helplines or websites to cite for support agencies.
•Use the '4Cs' (Cleaning, Cooking, Chilling, Cross-contamination) as a framework.
•Remember the temperature danger zone (8°C-63°C).
•Practise explaining steps in a logical order.
•Practice basic knife skills and food preparation techniques at home to build confidence

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