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Overview of alternative accreditations in languages
Reasons for using alternative forms of accreditation
- Many schools and colleges offer alternatives to academic GCSE and AS/A2 courses as traditional academic courses do not suit all students. For example, some students would like to learn a language for work or social purposes where even a little bit of language goes a long way.
- Many find work-related language learning or alternative forms of accreditation more motivating because of the authentic working contexts and links with businesses which can be a feature of these courses.
- Better results are often achieved by offering alternative courses. This is because the way in which the courses are assessed may be more appropriate to some students. For example, a course which is assessed continuously via internally set assignments (for example NVQ units) can prove to be less threatening for less confident language learners who do not like taking exams. Similarly, external assessments which can be taken in small steps when the learner is ready (for example Asset languages which are linked to the Languages Ladder) can prove to be very motivating.
Which method of assessment?
How the different courses are assessed is an important factor in choice of course. A summary of the assessment methods attached to some of the more common alternative accreditations is below:
- ABC Practical Languages – internally set tasks which are externally moderated/marked.
- Applied GCSE – speaking/writing assessments internally set, externally moderated. Reading and listening are tested via on-screen exams. Case studies.
- Asset Languages – tasks are provided. Teacher assessments are carried out for achievement of the Grades and external tests are provided for each stage. Case studies.
- Certificate in Business Language Competence (CBLC) – external examiners visit schools with externally-set tasks in all skills.
- ICAAE Certificate in Business Chinese – portfolio and external oral assessment
- Institute of Linguists Certificate in Bilingual Skills – externally assessed
- NVQ – portfolio-building course comprising of internally set tasks based on the National Language Standards with no prescribed themes. External verification. Case studies
- The new AQA FCSE – Externally set tests in reading and listening, writing and speaking assignments internally set. All marked internally with moderated sample. Case studies
Read here for full details and FAQs of the most common general and alternative qualifications offered for the age-group 14 to 19, from Entry Level to Level 3.
For a spreadsheet of all qualifications for post 14 learners including the number of points awarded:
Post-14 qualifications (xl 2.4 MB)
This spreadsheet can be edited. To perform a keyword search use the Find functionality (on the menu bar, click on Edit and then Find from the drop down menu OR press Ctrl + F). You may wish to save the spreadsheet onto your computer before opening it to speed up download time.
NB Every effort is made to ensure that the information on the qualifications spreadsheet is up to date, but before deciding on a qualification, it is important to look at the latest Section 96 (for pre-16 and 16 to 18) or Section 97 (for 19 and over) listings.
Alternatively, consult the National database of accredited qualifications, which is searchable by subject and keyword.
CILT's qualifications web pages list contact details for the awarding bodies.
For background information about types of language qualification and the National Qualifications Framework, go to QCA's languages web pages.
Find out about CILT's work in setting National Occupational Standards for languages.
