Information regarding Professional Development Awards (SQA)

Published: January 27, 2022

CSCS have seen an increase in enquiries relating to the Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) Professional Development Awards (PDAs).

Following a detailed review of this qualification and advice from the Scottish Qualification Authority whom note, that the Modern Apprenticeships in Scotland require the candidate to achieve the PDA at SCQF Level 6, which is off-the-job training in a college environment.

Plus the associated SVQ at SCQF Level 6 in the occupational competence within the workplace, along with the required IT core skills at SCQF Level 6.

Candidates who have achieved the full Modern Apprenticeship will be issued with a PDA certificate and a SVQ at SCQF Level 6 certificate in the noted occupational competence. There is a small number who achieve the PDA via the OSAT experienced worker route, whom will need to continue onto the SVQ at SCQF Level 6 to be eligible for a CSCS card.

As such it has been agreed the PDA qualification will not be accepted for any CSCS card, as we already accept the SVQ at SCQF Level 6 for the skilled worker card in the relevant occupation.

For clarity, this applies to PDA qualifications at all levels.

Applicants are advised to provide the SVQ at SCQF Level 6 certificate only in the relevant construction occupation when applying to CSCS.