ITQ progression routes

To avoid repeating learning, candidates who have completed the Northern Ireland Essential Skills ICT (ES ICT) qualification can apply their credits towards the ITQs. Learners who have completed the Level 1 ES ICT can claim either:

• Level 1 units “IT Software Fundamentals” and “Improving Productivity Using IT” (6 credits) towards the Level 1 ITQ Certificate or Diploma
• a 5-credit exemption from the Level 1 ITQ Certificate or Diploma or
• a 5-credit exemption from a higher level ITQ, so long as the candidate takes enough additional credits at the higher level to meet the Rules of Combination

Learners who have completed the Level 2 ES ICT can claim a 5-credit exemption from a Level 2 ITQ Certificate or Diploma. They could also claim the 5-credit exemption at Level 3, as long as they have enough other Level 3 units to satisfy the Rules of Combination.

To meet SQA requirements, we developed the SVQ for IT Users in Scotland. While the learning outcomes for the SVQ units are the same as for ITQ units, there are some differences in the qualification structure and progression. For example, there is only 1 qualification at each level:

• Level 1 SVQ (15 credits)
• Level 2 SVQ (28 credits)
• Level 3 SVQ (40 credits)

SVQs also go further in pointing out opportunities for building core skills like problem solving and working with others.

To avoid repeating learning, candidates who have completed the Essential Skills Wales – ICT (ESW ICT) qualification can apply their credits towards the ITQs:

• Learners who complete the Entry Level 3 ESW ICT can claim a 3-credit exemption from Level 1 ITQ Certificate or Diploma.
• The Level 2 ESW ICT can be used to claim a 5-credit exemption from the Level 2 ITQ Certificate or Diploma.
• Candidates can claim their 5-credit exemption at a higher level ITQ, so long as they have enough higher-level credits to satisfy the Rules of Combination.

• The Level 1 ESW ICT can be used to claim a 5-credit exemption from the Level 1 ITQ Certificate or Diploma.