NPA Social Services: Children and Young People (Schools)

On successful completion, pupils will achieve a National Progression Group Award in Social Services Children and Young People at SCQF Level 6 (the same level as a Higher), which includes the following units:

• Development of Children and Young People
• Play for Children and Young People
• Safeguarding of Children and Young People
• Promote the Wellbeing and Safety of Children and Young People
• Communication with Children and Young People

• Early Learning and Childcare Support Worker
• Early Learning and Childcare Practitioner 
• Youth work or community support assistant

• Applying for the Modern Apprenticeship in Social Services (Children and Young People)
• Further study at college on the Pathway to Childhood Practice or HNC Childhood Practice (dependent upon other qualifications)
• Using the NPA alongside Highers to apply to university

• S6 pupils should have at least 3 National 5s including English (or equivalent) at grade C or above and preferably have 2 highers from S5
• S5 pupils should have at least 3 National 5s including English (or equivalent) at grade C or above and should be working towards at least 2 highers.
• Schools will also need to confirm that they are able to support the required attendance times.
• Pupils must have a clear Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme record to complete this qualification. Pupils will apply for this at the beginning of the course and it is funded, so there is no additional cost

Further advice for School College Programme and Foundation Apprenticeship applications:

• Please ensure you have an online account before starting your application
• If you created your account prior to March 2025, you will need to register a new account
• Before starting the application process, please ensure you already hold or are working towards the relevant entry qualifications required for the course you are applying for
• Ensure you use your own personal email address when creating your online account
• Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email immediately
• If you do not receive an acknowledgement e-mail immediately, please check your SPAM/Junk folder
• Please include as much detail as possible in your personal statement such as; the reason you are applying, future career plans, relevant experience, hobbies and interests
• Disclosing support needs in your application will not affect your chances of being offered a place on a course at Forth Valley College
• If your application is successful, you will be invited to an information session
• If your application is unsuccessful, you should speak to a guidance teacher or SDS school liaison officer.
• If you are unable to attend the information session or wish to withdraw your application, please email the School Partnership team - school.partnership@forthvalley.ac.uk