1 February 2012

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, has welcomed the inclusion of its key IT qualifications in the list of eligible vocational qualifications in the 2014 performance tables published by the Department for Education (DfE).   

BCS’ qualifications are among the 125 qualifications (out of more than 3,100) that the DfE has identified as GCSE-equivalent, high-quality, rigorous courses with track records of taking young people into good jobs or higher education. The changes apply to courses taught from September 2012.

Martyn Lambert, Director of Qualifications for BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, says: “We’re delighted that our qualifications have been included in these tables enabling schools to gain performance points for them. It’s vital that young people are given digital literacy education through such qualifications as the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL).”

Examples of BCS qualifications that feature in the 2014 performance tables:

• BCS Level 2 Certificate in IT User Skills (ITQ) (QCF)
• BCS Level 2 Certificate in IT User Skills (ECDL Extra) (ITQ) (QCF)

Martyn concludes: “Qualifications such as these really do help young people gain the digital literacy skills they need to take part in and advantage of our information society. In particular,

IT qualifications, such as ECDL which is recognised by employers, are a real way for young people to differentiate themselves from other job seekers when applying for jobs. With an estimated 77% of jobs requiring IT skills, it’s vital that we help everyone to develop the skills they need.”

The Institute’s portfolio of qualifications include the internationally recognised ECDL, which over 2 million people have registered for in the UK alone, ITQ, Digital Creator, e-safety, e-type, Digital Skills and Computer and Online Basics. The qualifications are delivered through a wide network of training providers, colleges and schools across the UK.

Schools may offer qualifications that are not included in the performance tables if they judge this to be in the best interests of their students, provided they are approved for the purposes of section 96 of the Learning and Skills Act 2000.

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