Skills

If young people are to be prepared for the future they need to develop essential skills and qualities for learning, life and employment. These include skills that relate to learning in subjects as well as other more generic, transferable skills.

A dynamic, forward-looking curriculum creates opportunities for learners to develop as self-managers, creative thinkers, reflective learners, problem-solvers, teamworkers, independent learners, and effective communicators.

The framework for personal, learning and thinking skills (PLTS) – developed in consultation with employers, parents, schools, students and the wider public – captures these skills and competencies. It provides a national framework which schools can build on in order to meet the needs of their young people and broader communities.

Alongside the functional skills of English, mathematics and information and communication technology (ICT), PLTS are a fundamental part of learning across the curriculum. They are embedded in the new programmes of study and are an essential part of the Diploma qualifications. The aims of the curriculum are for all young people to become successful learners who enjoy learning, make progress and achieve; confident individuals who are able to live safe, healthy and fulfilling lives; and responsible citizens who make a positive contribution to society. The development of PLTS within your curriculum will help achieve these aims.

• Functional skills

• Personal, learning and thinking skills (PLTS)