Informal learning deserves formal recognition. AAAs gave us a practical, confidence-building tool we could use in homes and community venues – LEAD Scotland.
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 these diverse experiences.
If your organisation supports adults through informal or non-formal learning, AAAs offer a valuable and flexible qualification that can acknowledge and enhance the impact of your work.
The College’s support for the AAAs is excellent. The quick turnaround in assessment and feedback helps maintain learner motivation and provides a clear sense of achievement. – Access to Industry
About 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 AAAs
Key facts about 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
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 AAAs find them to be a valuable addition to their existing programmes, adding an accredited outcome to non-formal or informal learning experiences.
Who can deliver AAAs?
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 Adult Achievement Awards, we’d be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Impact of Adult Achievement Awards
AAAs have delivered powerful outcomes for learners and organisations across Scotland. They provide an accessible route into accredited learning and can transform learners’ confidence and engagement.
I have worked with many learners over the years since the first AAA pilot project, at all SCQF levels.
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
Get Involved
Newbattle Abbey College is the national accreditation centre for AAAs. 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.
Contact us today to explore how AAAs can enrich your programmes and support your learners
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