Adult Achievment Awards at Newbattle Abbey College
We believe that learning takes place in many settings, from communities and workplaces to homes and everyday life. Adult Achievement Awards (AAAs) provide a meaningful way to formally recognise and celebrate the skills and knowledge that adults gain through thesediverse experiences.
If your organisation supports adults through informal or non-formal learning, Adult Achievement Awards (AAAs) offer a valuable and flexible qualification that can acknowledge and enhance the impact of your work.
I have worked with many learners (now lost count) over the years since the first AAA pilot project began on all SCQF levels 2,3,4,5 and 6 and can highly recommend them for adult learners or volunteers.
About the AAAs
AAAs are nationally recognised qualifications that give credit for learning that takes place in any setting, whether formal or informal. Learners reflect on their experiences and document the skills, qualities, and knowledge they have developed.
About the AAAs
Key facts about the AAAs:
- Available at SCQF Levels 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
- Recognised across Scotland and internationally
- No entry requirements, making them accessible to adults from all backgrounds
- Designed to be context-free, meaning they can be delivered across many sectors and types of learning programmes
The AAAs help learners to:
- Recognise the skills and strengths they already have
- Build confidence and motivation
- Take practical steps towards further learning, volunteering or employment
Organisations that deliver the AAAs find them to be a valuable addition to their existing programmes, adding an accredited outcome to non-formal or informal learning experiences.
Impact of the Adult Achievement Awards
AAAs are nationally recognised qualifications that give credit for learning that takes place in any setting, whether formal or informal. Learners reflect on their experiences and document the skills, qualities, and knowledge they have developed.
Who can deliver Adult Achievement Awards?
The AAAs are ideal for organisations that:
- Deliver informal or non-formal learning in community settings, workplaces, volunteering projects or adult education contexts
- Want to offer learners a nationally recognised qualification for their participation and achievements
- Are committed to helping learners build confidence, identify skills and take steps towards further opportunities
- Work with adults who may have few formal qualifications but rich life experiences
Who can deliver Adult Achievement Awards?
Current delivery partners include local authorities, third sector organisations, colleges and community learning providers.
If you’d like more information about the Adult Achievement Awards we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.
I have worked with many learners over the years since the first AAA pilot project, at all SCQF levels.
The AAAs are an excellent tool for recognising adult learning and helping people take their next steps. They add real value to community learning and volunteering programmes.
Barbara Taylor, AAA Tutor/Assessor, LEAD Scotland
Community Learning Group - Case study
A local community organisation integrated the AAAs into their volunteering programme. Participants who had never achieved a formal qualification reflected on skills such as teamwork, organising events and supporting others. Completing the AAA gave learners a sense of pride and encouraged several to progress into further education and training opportunities.
Get Involved
Newbattle Abbey College is the national accreditation centre for the Adult Achievement Awards. We provide full support to organisations wishing to become approved centres, including:
- Training for tutors and assessors
- Learner Guides and Reflective Journals
- Tutor Guides and Resources
- Ongoing administrative support and quality assurance
Becoming an approved centre allows your organisation to offer a flexible, meaningful qualification that recognises the real value of adult learning in all its forms.
