Recognising youth achievement awards

Youth Scotland has noted a dramatic rise in the number of operating agencies offering Youth Achievement Awards since their inclusion on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).

The Awards, administered by the Youth Scotland youth group network, recognise the role of young people in volunteering work, active citizenship and other settings.

The Youth Achievement Awards can now be directly compared to the level of qualifications such as Highers, SVQs and HNCs. SQA credit rated the Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum Awards at Levels 4–7 on the SCQF.

From March 2008 to March 2009 the number of participating units soared from 211 to 287 – compared with 201 in March 2007. In the same period the number of operating agencies has also increased from 45 to 57, the majority of which are registrations from schools.

Both Youth Scotland and the SCQF Partnership welcome the interest. Aileen Ponton, CEO of the SCQF Partnership, said: 'The credit rating and levelling of the Youth Achievement Awards on the SCQF provides additional currency and credibility, and their placement on the framework gives parity with other qualifications.'

Steven Greig, Youth Work Manager at Youth Scotland, added: 'The Awards provide a framework to recognise and value young people's achievement regardless of the learning environment. Their value has increased dramatically through SCQF credit rating.'