Personal Achievement Awards are designed to enable pupils to develop their confidence, independence, and their ability to communicate and respond to others.
Pupils will have the opportunity to participate in a range of new and familiar activities, and to experience and contribute to their community across a range of social contexts.
Award Level
The Awards are available at SCQF Level 1 and SCQF Level 2 and have three different stages of achievement: Bronze, Silver and Gold. Pupils can progress through Bronze, Silver and Gold, building on their achievements at each stage.
Entry Level – what do I need to do it?
There is no prerequisite for the P.A.A. course.
Course Content – what will I learn?
Units are selected from the following two themes:
♦ Developing Independence
♦ Taking Part in the Community
Pupils have the opportunity to select from a wide range of units, tailored to their specific needs and interests – for example: personal health; safety and security; healthy eating; financial awareness; travel in the community; exploring a local area.
To achieve the Bronze Award, pupils must successfully complete two units – one from each theme.
To achieve the Silver Award, four units must be successfully completed – at least one from each theme.
To achieve the Gold Award, six units must be successfully completed – at least two from each theme.
Teaching Methods – what will I do?
Teaching methods may vary depending on the unit(s) being studied but will involve active learning.
Assessment
Assessment consists of gathering evidence via a portfolio to show that a pupil has successfully completed all the outcomes in the units. Assessment evidence can be presented in any form appropriate to the pupil and the activity undertaken. Evidence may be paper-based or recorded (oral or visual).
Pupils may also provide evidence through audio recordings, video diaries, blogs or other electronic means.
Homework
Homework will depend on the unit(s) being studied; but may involve, for example, taking photographs, creating a poster or storyboard, or keeping a log of activities.
Progression
The Award at SCQF level 1 or its components may provide progression to:
♦ Personal Achievement Award at SCQF level 2
♦ Personal Development Award at SCQF level 2
♦ other Units, Awards and Courses at SCQF level 2
The Award at SCQF level 2 or its components may provide progression to:
♦ Personal Development Award at SCQF level 2
♦ other Units, Awards and Courses at SCQF levels 2 and/or 3
Personal Achievement Award – information leaflet
