Stages of learning
The experiences and outcomes under Curriculum for Excellence are written at five levels, with progression to qualifications described under the senior phase.
The path most children and young people are expected to follow through the levels reflects the stages of maturation of children and young people and the changing ways in which they engage with learning as they develop.
Some children and young people will start learning at these levels earlier and others later, depending upon individual needs and aptitudes. The framework is however designed to be flexible in order to permit careful planning for those with additional support needs, including those who, for example, have a learning difficulty and those who are particularly able or talented.
While children and young people should feel that the transition from one stage of learning to another is smooth, they should still be able to look forward to the excitement of starting nursery, primary school and secondary school, and finally to moving on to positive and sustained destinations.
| Level | Stage |
|---|---|
| Early | The pre-school years and P1, or later for some. |
| First | To the end of P4, but earlier or later for some. |
| Second | To the end of P7, but earlier or later for some. |
| Third and Fourth | S1 to S3, but earlier for some. The fourth level broadly equates to Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 4. The fourth level experiences and outcomes are intended to provide possibilities for choice and young people's programmes will not include all of the fourth level outcomes. |
| Senior phase | S4 to S6, and college or other means of study. |
