How long does it take to complete the ProQual Level 1 Diploma in Skills Towards Enabling Progression?

The diploma typically takes one academic year (around 9 months) to complete if studied full-time. However, part-time options are available, and the pace can vary depending on your centre. The qualification is credit-based, so you need to achieve a total of 37 credits from mandatory and optional units.

Can I use this diploma to get into college or an apprenticeship?

Yes, absolutely. This diploma is specifically designed to help you progress. Many colleges accept it as an alternative to GCSEs for entry onto Level 2 courses. For apprenticeships, it demonstrates that you have the foundational skills in communication, numeracy, and teamwork that employers look for.

What kind of jobs can I get with this qualification?

While the diploma is primarily a stepping stone to further study, it can help you secure entry-level roles in retail, hospitality, administration, or customer service. It shows employers that you have basic skills and a commitment to learning. However, most students use it to progress to higher-level qualifications for better career options.

Do I need to pass exams or is it coursework-based?

The diploma is mainly assessed through coursework, practical tasks, and a portfolio of evidence. There are no formal exams. You will be assessed by your tutor or assessor on each unit, and you need to demonstrate that you have met the learning outcomes. This makes it ideal for students who prefer continuous assessment over high-pressure exams.

Is this qualification recognised by employers and universities?

Yes, it is a regulated qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) in England, so it is recognised by employers and further education providers. While universities typically require Level 3 qualifications for entry, this diploma can be used to access Level 2 or Level 3 courses that lead to university.

What if I don't have good English or Maths skills? Can I still do this course?

Yes, the course is designed to help you improve these skills. You will study English and Maths as part of the diploma, and support is usually available if you need extra help. The qualification starts at a foundational level, so you can build your skills gradually. Many students find that their confidence grows significantly over the course.

Introduction to Making and Using Story Sacks for Family Learning

PROQUAL AWARDING BODY

vocational

This element introduces the concept and value of story sacks as a resource to enhance family learning and children's literacy. Learners explore the essential components that make up a story sack and how each part supports engagement and language development. It also covers practical methods for planning, sourcing, and assembling a story sack, ensuring it is inclusive, safe, and effective for use in home or community settings.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Guidance

Key Skills

Key Terms

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria

ProQual Level 1 Diploma in Skills Towards Enabling Progression (Step-UP)(QCF)

Topic Overview

The ProQual Level 1 Diploma in Skills Towards Enabling Progression (Step-UP) (QCF) is a foundational qualification designed to help you develop the essential skills and knowledge needed to progress in education, training, or employment. This diploma covers a broad range of topics, including communication, numeracy, IT, and personal development, all tailored to build your confidence and independence. It is particularly valuable for students who may not have achieved formal qualifications at school, as it provides a stepping stone to further study, such as GCSEs or vocational courses, and prepares you for the demands of the workplace.

The qualification is structured around units that focus on practical, real-world applications. For example, you will learn how to manage your time effectively, work in a team, solve problems, and use basic digital tools. These skills are not just academic; they are directly transferable to everyday life and future careers. By completing this diploma, you demonstrate to employers and educators that you have the foundational abilities to succeed in a variety of settings, making it a crucial first step in your lifelong learning journey.

Within the broader context of the UK education system, this diploma sits at Level 1 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), equivalent to GCSE grades D-G. It is designed for learners who need extra support to build core competencies before moving on to higher-level qualifications. The ProQual Awarding Body ensures that the content is relevant and up-to-date, with a focus on enabling progression – meaning every unit you complete is a building block for your future, whether that be in further education, an apprenticeship, or employment.

Key Concepts

Core ideas you must understand for this topic

→Communication Skills: Developing the ability to listen, speak, read, and write effectively in a range of contexts, including formal and informal situations.
→Numeracy: Applying basic mathematical operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) to everyday problems, such as budgeting or measuring.
→Digital Literacy: Using computers and software (e.g., word processing, email, internet) safely and responsibly to complete tasks and find information.
→Personal Development: Building self-awareness, confidence, and resilience through goal-setting, time management, and reflection on your own learning.
→Teamwork and Problem-Solving: Working collaboratively with others to achieve shared goals and using logical steps to overcome challenges.

Learning Objectives

What you need to know and understand

Know the purpose and content of story sacks.(SLr/E3), Know how to produce a story sack and contents.(SLr/E3)

Assessment Criteria

Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

Award credit for clearly explaining the main purpose of a story sack, such as promoting reading, speaking, and listening skills through interactive play.
Award credit for identifying at least three key contents a story sack should include, e.g., a picture book, props/toys related to the story, and activity ideas.
Award credit for producing a simple story sack, demonstrating the ability to select an appropriate book and create or gather a few related props or materials.
Award credit for including guidance for parents/carers on how to use the story sack to encourage shared reading and conversation.
Award credit for considering safety and inclusivity, e.g., avoiding small parts for under-3s, representing diverse characters or settings.

Assessment Guidance

Guidance for achieving higher grades

💡Select a familiar children's story to base your story sack on; it makes sourcing or making props easier and demonstrates clear understanding.
💡Keep your story sack simple: a quality prop or two per key element of the story is more effective than overfilling with items.
💡Include a short, clear activity sheet for parents that ties each prop to a specific part of the story and suggests questions to ask.
💡In your evidence portfolio, provide photos of you using the story sack with a child or peer, highlighting the interaction and learning.
💡Link every choice back to the purpose stated in the learning objectives: show how each item promotes family learning and literacy development.
💡Tip 1: Keep a portfolio of all your work, including drafts and feedback. Assessors look for evidence of improvement and reflection, so showing how you have acted on feedback can boost your marks.
💡Tip 2: For communication units, practice writing in different formats (e.g., emails, letters, reports). Pay attention to spelling, grammar, and tone – these are often where marks are lost.
💡Tip 3: In numeracy tasks, show all your working out, even if you use a calculator. This demonstrates your understanding of the process and can earn you method marks even if the final answer is wrong.

Common Mistakes

Common errors to avoid in your coursework

Treating a story sack as just a bag of random toys, without linking them to a specific story or learning goal.
Overcomplicating the props, making them too time-consuming or costly to reproduce, which can deter repeated use.
Using materials that are not durable or safe, such as sharp edges, loose small parts, or non-washable fabrics.
Omitting guidance or prompt cards for parents, leaving them unsure how to engage children with the contents.
Choosing a book that is not age-appropriate or too complex for the intended audience, reducing engagement.
Misconception: This diploma is just a 'soft option' and doesn't lead anywhere. Correction: It is a recognised qualification that provides essential skills for progression. Many students use it to access GCSE courses, apprenticeships, or entry-level jobs.
Misconception: You only need to pass the final exam. Correction: The diploma is unit-based and assessed through coursework and practical tasks. Consistent effort across all units is required to achieve the full qualification.
Misconception: Numeracy and literacy are not important for vocational careers. Correction: Almost every job requires basic communication and maths skills. This diploma ensures you have the minimum standards expected by employers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions students ask about this topic

Before You Start

Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

•No formal prerequisites are required, but a willingness to learn and engage with new ideas is essential. Basic reading and writing skills at Entry Level 3 are helpful.
•If you have studied any Entry Level qualifications in English or Maths, that will provide a good foundation for this diploma.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Know the purpose and content of story sacks.(SLr/E3), Know how to produce a story sack and contents.(SLr/E3)

Ready to learn?

AI-powered learning tailored to this unit

Introduction to Making and Using Story Sacks for Family Learning

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to learn?

Related Topics in PROQUAL AWARDING BODY vocational Foundations for Learning

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Topic Synopsis

Key Concepts & Core Principles

Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

Examiner Marking Points

Introduction to Making and Using Story Sacks for Family Learning

Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

Learning Objectives

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the ProQual Level 1 Diploma in Skills Towards Enabling Progression?

Can I use this diploma to get into college or an apprenticeship?

What kind of jobs can I get with this qualification?

Do I need to pass exams or is it coursework-based?

Is this qualification recognised by employers and universities?

What if I don't have good English or Maths skills? Can I still do this course?

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to learn?

Related Topics in PROQUAL AWARDING BODY vocational Foundations for Learning

Accessing Public Transport

Acoustic Recording Techniques

Active Citizenship in the Local Community

Alcohol and Drug Misuse Awareness