'Every young person is entitled to experience a senior phase where he or she can continue to develop the four capacities and also obtain qualifications.'

All young people in Scotland have an entitlement to a senior phase of education which:

• provides specialisation, depth and rigour
• prepares them well for achieving qualifications to the highest level of which they are capable
• continues to develop skills for learning, skills for life and skills for work
• continues to provide a range of activities which develop the four capacities
• supports them to achieve a positive and sustained destination.

The senior phase, which takes place from S4 to S6 in schools and includes ages 16 to 18 out of school, is the phase when the young person will build up a portfolio of qualifications. It is the stage of education at which the relationship between the curriculum and National Qualifications becomes of key significance. The curriculum framework and the qualifications system will provide a range of opportunities to meet the needs of all learners, whether aspiring to achievements at SCQF level 1 or at SCQF level 7.

The curriculum in the senior phase comprises more than programmes which lead to qualifications. There is a continuing emphasis, for example, on health and wellbeing appropriate to this phase, including physical activity and opportunities for personal achievement, service to others and practical experience of the world of work.

Reflective question

What are the planning and delivery implications of providing young people with opportunities and support to stay in learning after 16?

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