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Foundation Learning Tier

A Brief Introduction to the Foundation Learning Tier (FLT)

The National Open College Network (NOCN) has been closely involved in the current reforms of the qualification system and the introduction of the Qualification and Credit Framework (QCF) which is scheduled to be in place from September 2008, subject to confirmation by Ministers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. One key aspect of this new framework of units and qualifications, with credit based accreditation for all awarding bodies, is the Foundation Learning Tier (FLT) structure.  NOCN Qualification strategy will ensure that all relevant Entry and Level One units and qualifications meet the requirements of the FLT.

What is the FLT?

The FLT is an inclusive framework at Entry and Level One which offers a coherent vision of how real stepping stones can be used for progression. 

John Denham, Secretary of State, Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS)  says the FLT ‘ will create ladders for progression that help people get started by recognising learning at Entry Level that moves people on to achieve at Level One.’

NOCN welcomes this focus on Entry and Level One after the recent concentration of attention and funding on Level Two and Three.

Within the FLT, Progression Pathways will be the main organising structures which are specifically designed to promote progression as well as enabling learners to achieve qualifications at Entry and Level One. Each pathway will include three distinct components:

• Vocational knowledge, skills and understanding;
• Functional skills;
• Personal and social development.

Progression Pathways

The progression destinations of the first four Progression Pathways identified for phased implementation from August 2008 are:

• A first full Level Two, initially for adults;
• A Level Two apprenticeship framework - a pre-apprenticeship pathway aimed initially at the 16 – 18 age group;
• Supported employment or independent living targeted at learners with learning difficulties and / or disabilities for 16 – 25 year olds;
• Level One Diplomas – an offer at Entry Level for 14 – 16 year old olds.

Using NOCN for FLT Provision

The NOCN Qualifications for Progression (NQF), The NOCN Qualifications in Progression (QCF) and the proposed new NOCN qualifications for the 14 – 16 year age group have been designed to offer exactly the broad spread of vocationally related knowledge, skills and personal learning that will enable individuals and groups to achieve and progress.  Flexible, tailored courses in a range of sectors can be designed in partnership with the local OCN, enabling bite sized achievement toward a national qualification, in any setting.  

Moreover, the NOCN approach to assessment is inclusive so that the actual needs of diverse groups of learners can be met.

The structure of the Qualifications for Progression will also facilitate providers working in collaboration to develop employability skills in a city for instance, with progression across sites and including employer training.

How to Start Planning for FLT Provision

NOCN has nine regional OCNs in England, one in Wales and one in Northern Ireland. There are 2,500 Centres nationally offering NOCN qualifications which collectively award certificates to over 800,000 successful learners every year. All OCNs offer a service to providers in the region/country which includes curriculum review and staff development.

NOCN qualifications consist of units of assessment, each with an assigned level and credit value which allow the learner to achieve at their own pace and build towards a full qualification over time

In partnership with the local OCN, learning providers can begin to consider how OCN accreditation fits into the new Foundation Learning Tier as a means of supporting Entry and Level One learning. The OCN will offer you curriculum support to ensure you design pathways that match the personalised needs of your learners.

Contact your OCN now to discuss how this model could be used to develop fundable programmes for 2008/09. OCN staff will be pleased to discuss your requirements and to support your staff.