Pupils and staff at Vale of Leven Academy are beaming with pride after it was named the 250th SCQF School Ambassador.
The initiative, designed by the SCQF Partnership for secondary schools, aims to deepen understanding of the qualifications framework and its role in supporting learners across Scotland.
The programme highlights the equal value of vocational and academic qualifications, and encourages schools to create alternative pathways for pupils.
SCQF commitment
The milestone was marked with celebrations at the West Dunbartonshire school, where teachers expressed their delight at being recognised for their commitment to the programme.
Head Teacher at Vale of Leven Academy, in Alexandria, Matthew Boyle, said: “The SCQF Ambassador School Programme is a real opportunity for us to drive forward our school ambition to prepare young people for successful careers.
“Finding a pathway to a great future means finding a qualifications ladder with manageable steps, which engages interest and commitment.
“Schools can sometimes be a little too ‘one size fits all’, and even though we think that we provide curriculum variety, too many young people still find their next steps are driven by the school timetable or by a traditional interpretation of national curriculum guidance.
“If we are to make better use of the resources we have, to match more specialist qualifications to individual interest and personality, then we can reduce wasted time for young people in finding their futures in our school.
“The key to all of this is better understanding of the skills and qualification frameworks available, and more acceptance of the standardised value of these qualifications by students, teachers, families and employers alike.”
Full potential
Councillor Clare Steel, Convener of Educational Services at West Dunbartonshire Council, added: “I am delighted that the Vale of Leven Academy is the 250th school to join the SCQF Partnership’s School Ambassador programme.
“This will support pupils to reach their full potential, and enhance the learning experience and awareness of pathways for our young people.”
Flexible learning
Donnie Wood, SCQF Partnership Learning Pathways Lead, who oversees the programme, said: “Reaching 250 schools is a testament to the hard work and dedication of educators and learners across Scotland.
“The SCQF Ambassador Programme helps schools unlock the full potential of their students by offering flexible and inclusive learning options.
“We’re delighted to welcome Vale of Leven Academy to the programme and look forward to seeing them thrive.”
Join the SCQF School Ambassador Programme for free
The programme is free to join and open to all secondary schools in Scotland. Participating schools can progress through Bronze, Silver, and Gold Ambassador status by meeting specific criteria, allowing them to showcase their commitment to expanding learner pathways.
If your school would like to get involved, contact Donnie Wood at d.wood@scqf.org.uk or visit School Ambassador Programme. You can also explore the School Ambassador Padlet.
