What are key skills?
Key skills are for everyone, from learners in the workplace to chief executives in large companies. They are the skills most commonly needed for success in education, training, work and life in general. The six key skills are: • application of number • communication • improving own learning and performance • information technology • problem solving • working with others. In developing key skills, people improve the quality of their learning as well as their performance in the world of work.
Whilst the Key Skills Standards are the same across Wales, Northern Ireland and England, the Key Skills qualifications offered in Wales are certificated by means of an internally assessed and an externally moderated portfolio only. There are no external tests. In total, there are six Key Skills and these are as follows: • Application of Number • Communication • Information and Communication Technology • Improving Own Learning and Performance † • Problem Solving † • Working with Others † † commonly referred to as the ‘Wider Key Skills’ All six Key Skills qualifications are certified at levels 1 to 4 that can be taken in all learning routes and at any age. Key Skills are a range of essential skills that underpin success in education, employment, lifelong learning and personal development. Key Skills are an integral part of the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification and Modern Apprenticeship Frameworks. In the context of the 14-19 Learning Core, all 14-16 year olds will be expected to develop
