The AQA Unit Award Scheme offers a valuable opportunity for young people to gain recognition for their everyday achievements. Through activities such as engaging in conversations with adults, developing life skills, building independence (both at home and in the community), learning from behaviours, and enhancing social skills, young people can receive awards for their progress.
With over 20,000 units to choose from, young people in care and education settings can work through units tailored to their individual needs. The units can be selected to reflect the individual daily learning experiences and additional units can be created to meet specific needs or topics.
The AQA Unit Award Scheme not only celebrates children and young people’s achievements but also evidences their journey and progress. Receiving certificates provides an opportunity to celebrate success and support in building self-esteem and a sense of achievement.
The Unit Award Scheme aims to recognise the achievements of every learner. On average, most AQA units can be completed in as little as 20 minutes, although learners can take as much time as needed. This flexibility allows young people to complete a unit over several days if necessary. Adults can provide varying levels of support or encourage independent learning, depending on the learner's needs.
Claiming a certificate is a straightforward process. To submit a claim, simply send a copy of the completed unit along with a summary sheet via email. The summary sheet serves as the claim and witness form, which includes the learner’s details and the dates the unit was completed. In some units, there may also be completed work to submit, which can be recorded on a worksheet. Adults can assist by scribing and documenting responses.