Principal Learning and Project Qualifications

The Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification (WBQ) is an established and well regarded qualification whose structure readily accommodates the new applied Principal Learning and project qualifications as further options.

What are Principal Learning Qualifications?

Principal Learning Qualifications are new qualifications that have been developed in partnership with employers and universities. They will give learners an insight into what is involved in an occupational area without committing the learner to a career in that area.

There will be opportunities to experience different styles of learning in different environments such as school, college and the workplace, with an emphasis on practical activities.

The Principal Learning qualifications may be used together with, or instead of, other approved qualifications as part of the Options requirements within the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification. They will be available at levels 1 [Foundation], 2 [Intermediate] and 3 [Advanced] of the National Qualifications Framework. Learners taking Principal Learning qualifications must also take the Project qualification at the same level.

The Principal Learning qualifications will be phased in over three years.
From September 2010, they will be available in:

  1. Information Technology
  2. Construction and the Built Environment
  3. Engineering
  4. Creative and Media
  5. Society, Health and Development
  6. Environmental and Land-based Studies
  7. Business Administration and Finance
  8. Manufacturing and Product Design
  9. Hair and Beauty Studies
  10. Hospitality

For the qualification specifications, please visit the relevant Awarding Organisation's website.

By 2011 they will be available in a further four occupational areas: Travel and Tourism; Public Services; Sport and Leisure and Retail.

What are the Project/Extended Project Qualifications?

The Project/Extended Project Qualifications are freestanding qualifications that will let the learner choose their own topic and develop skills in managing and presenting their learning. They will be available at level 1 [Foundation], level 2 [Higher] and level 3 [Extended] and can be taken as part of, or separate from the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification.

If the Project/Extended Project is taken within the Welsh Baccalaureate, the learner will be provided with opportunities to draw upon and integrate their learning from all components of the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification. Also, at levels 1 and 2 the Project qualification may be an alternative to the Individual Investigation requirement of the Welsh Baccalaureate, provided the Project also meets the requirements of the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification. A learner taking a Principal Learning qualification must take the Project qualification at the same level as their Principal Learning.

Why take the Principal Learning and Project/Extended Project option?

The Principal Learning and Project/Extended Project option within the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification provides both the in-depth subject knowledge and practical skills that businesses and Higher Education Institutions want. It helps to ensure that the learner has the right skills to succeed in a fast-moving global economy.