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The development of SCQF credit rating at Glasgow Clyde College

An image of Julie Wales, Head of Sector for the Faculty of Health, Wellbeing and Management

A case study by Julie Wales, Head of Sector for the Faculty of Health, Wellbeing and Management.

As Head of Sector for the Faculty of Health, Wellbeing, and Management at Glasgow Clyde College, I’ve played a pivotal role in developing the approach to Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) rating at the college. My journey began in 2016 when I attended the course "Would you credit it?" which sparked my interest in the benefits of SCQF rating.

 

Initial Interest and Inspiration

This interest in SCQF rating was further fuelled when I viewed a colleague's portfolio of work after completing a course with Wella. The course, which included a mini graduation ceremony, resembled a degree, had complex approaches and scientific calculations and I felt this would be a brilliant opportunity to showcase the potential of SCQF rating to enhance the recognition and value of this excellent vocational training opportunity.

 

Collaboration with Wella

Inspired by the Wella course, I initiated discussions with partners at Wella to develop their Higher-Level Diploma. This collaboration led to the creation of a course that was officially credit-rated at SCQF Level 9, providing a structured and recognised pathway for learners in the hairdressing industry.

Credit rating the Wella Colour Higher Level diploma | Glasgow Clyde College

 

Development of Brothers in Arms Course

I continued to innovate by writing the Brothers in Arms course with Gary Goldie after participating in the "Reaching in conversations" training. This course, aimed at tackling male mental health stigma, was credit-rated at SCQF Level 5 and highlighted the versatility of SCQF rating in addressing diverse educational needs.

 

Advanced Leadership for the Spa and Beauty Industry

I then developed the Advanced Leadership for the Spa and Beauty Industry course, which was credit-rated at SCQF Level 9. This course aimed to equip industry professionals with the leadership skills necessary to excel in their field, further demonstrating the broad applicability of SCQF rating.

Advanced Leadership in the Spa and Beauty Industry (SCQF Level 9)

 

FIDA and Dollar Academy

I participated in the SCQF rating for Dollar Academy’s Future’s Institute, a qualification that, through project learning, establishes sustainability principles and essential problem solving, collaboration and communication for real-world contexts. It explores sustainability through the 17 UN sustainable goals, focusing on equality, social justice, climate change and biodiversity.

 

Formalising a Course for Credit Rating Purposes

To further support the development of SCQF-rated courses, I am now introducing the "Preparing a Course for Credit Rating Purposes" course at SCQF Level 6. This comprehensive course is designed to guide educational professionals, vocational trainers, and quality assurance specialists through the essential steps of credit rating vetting. Key learning outcomes include curriculum development, quality assurance, resource management, vetting panel preparation, and aftercare procedures.

The course emphasises the importance of digital literacy and collaboration, utilising tools like Microsoft Teams for course development and delivery. This "Bolt on" training is aimed to take ideas "from concept to course," ensuring that new programmes are effectively credit-rated and aligned with SCQF standards.

Formalising a Course for Credit Rating Purposes (SCQF Level 6) | Glasgow Clyde College

 

Internal Outcomes at Glasgow Clyde College

The SCQF rating process has had several positive internal outcomes at Glasgow Clyde College:

  • Motivation for Development: Teams involved in the SCQF rating process have been motivated to develop their own provision. For example, the Sport department is developing a unique statistical analysis course, and the Business and Finance teaching team is considering SCQF rating their non-certificated provision.
  • Universal Design for Learning (UDL): These developments can be streamlined through the lens of UDL. The college has a significant opportunity to ensure that all new subjects being converted into SCQF-rated units maximise flexibility in approach to assessment.

 

Impact and Benefits

I believe my efforts will significantly impact Glasgow Clyde College and its partners. The SCQF rating has provided numerous benefits, including:

  • Enhanced Recognition: Courses are officially recognised, increasing their value and credibility.
  • Structured Learning Pathways: Learners have clear progression routes, making it easier to understand and compare qualifications.
  • Improved Employability: SCQF-rated courses help employers understand the level of employees' skills, enhancing job prospects.
  • Quality Assurance: The SCQF rating process ensures that courses meet high standards of quality, benefiting both learners and employers.
  • Flexibility and Transferability: SCQF-rated qualifications are recognised across different sectors, allowing learners to transfer credits and continue their education or career development in various fields.
  • Increased Motivation and Engagement: The formal recognition of courses can boost learners' motivation and engagement, as they see tangible value in their educational achievements.
  • Support for Lifelong Learning: SCQF rating promotes lifelong learning by providing a clear framework for continuous professional development and upskilling.

 

Conclusion

I am completely dedicated to developing the approach to SCQF rating at Glasgow Clyde College to transform the educational landscape, providing structured, recognized, and valuable learning opportunities for students and professionals alike. I’m hopeful this innovative approach continues to inspire and lead the way in vocational education and that other colleges can join in to the benefit of their learners and commercial partners.

References
SCQF Wella Colour Higher Level Diploma: Breaking the Stigma: SCQF Level 5 Qualification Tackles Male Mental Health: Credit Rating - Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework: SCQF Credit Rating: Criteria Explained: SCQF Advanced Leadership for the Spa and Beauty Industry

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