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Nexus Accreditation Routes 26-27

AQA Entry Level Maths (Entry 1, 2 or 3)

What is AQA Entry Level Maths?

Entry Level Maths enables students to become confident in their use of fundamental mathematical knowledge and skills, and can use this knowledge to solve simple mathematical problems. Students complete 8 assignments to determine the overall level of mathematical knowledge from Entry 1 to Entry 3.

Content Overview:

	Content
Number	Read, write, order and compare whole numbers. Count forwards and backwards accurately. Understand place value. Add, subtract, multiply and divide using appropriate methods. Recall basic number facts and multiplication facts as appropriate. Estimate and check answers. Recognise odd and even numbers. Understand fractions, decimals and percentages (Entry 3). Solve simple everyday number problems involving money, measures and time.
Measure	Measure and compare length, mass, capacity and temperature. Read scales accurately. Tell and calculate time using analogue and digital clocks. Use calendars and timetables. Calculate with money, including giving change. Estimate and compare measurements. Choose appropriate units of measure. Solve practical problems involving measures in familiar contexts.
Geometry	Identify and name common 2D and 3D shapes. Describe shape properties such as sides, faces and vertices. Recognise lines of symmetry (higher Entry Levels). Understand position and direction. Use simple maps and directional language. Recognise patterns and relationships between shapes. Apply shape knowledge in practical contexts.
Statistics	Sort and classify information. Collect simple data. Read and interpret tables, pictograms, bar charts and tally charts. Extract information from graphs and charts. Compare data. Answer questions using data. Present simple information clearly.

Outcomes:

Entry 1	Develops confidence with basic counting, simple calculations, recognising shapes, telling the time, using money and handling simple information in familiar contexts.
Entry 2	Applies mathematical skills with increasing independence, using larger numbers, solving practical problems involving measures, interpreting simple charts and beginning to use fractions and decimals.
Entry 3	Uses mathematics confidently in everyday situations, selecting appropriate methods to solve multi-step problems involving number, measures, shape and data, preparing students for Level 1 Functional Skills or GCSE pathways.

Next Steps:

Students with Entry Level Maths will often progress to study further maths at a higher Entry Level, Level 1, 2 or GCSE.

Accessibility:

Progress towards Entry level for some students can be supported or recognised through unit awards, this could be for students that would be unable to access this qualification but are working at a sufficient level. Some access arrangements can be supported in this qualification but these would be assessed on a student by student basis, but could include for example a reading pen, or small group/individual invigilation.

NCFE Functional Skills Maths (Level 1 and Level 2)

What is Functional Skills Maths?

Functional Skills Maths is designed to equip a student with the maths knowledge needed for everyday life. Functional Skills has an emphasis on developing problem solving and equips students to interpret information, plan a method and make decisions based on real life scenarios. Students can access this course at Level 1 or Level 2 and the choice of level will be dependent on students’ Maths attainment and confidence. Students will need to complete two papers a calculator and non-calculator paper, these can be completed on paper or a computer.

Content Overview:

	Content
Number	Use whole numbers, fractions, decimals and percentages accurately. Carry out calculations using mental and written methods. Estimate and check the reasonableness of answers. Apply the four operations to solve real-life problems. Understand ratio, proportion and simple algebraic relationships. Use mathematical notation appropriately. Solve multi-step problems involving number.
Measure	Calculate and convert units of length, mass, capacity and volume. Work with time, timetables and calendars. Calculate with money, including budgeting and best value. Measure and calculate perimeter, area and volume (where appropriate). Interpret scales and measurements accurately. Solve real-life problems involving measurement.
Geometry	Identify and describe the properties of 2D and 3D shapes. Calculate perimeter, area and volume (Level 1 and Level 2). Use angles and geometric properties. Understand position, direction and coordinates. Interpret and use maps, plans and scale drawings. Apply geometric knowledge to everyday situations.
Statistics	Collect, organise and represent data. Read and interpret tables, charts and graphs. Calculate and interpret averages (mean, median, mode and range where appropriate). Understand and use probability. Compare and evaluate information presented in different formats. Draw conclusions and make informed decisions using data.

Outcomes:

Level 1	Applies mathematics independently to solve a range of everyday and workplace problems, selecting appropriate methods and explaining reasoning.
Level 2	Uses mathematics confidently and efficiently in complex real-life situations, solving multi-step problems, analysing data and applying mathematical reasoning to support decision making in employment, further education and everyday life.

Next Steps:

Students with Functional Skills Maths Level 1 will progress to studying Level 2 or GCSE Maths. Level 2 Maths is an access qualification, as it is a generally accepted as a qualification that allows access to further study at higher levels or employment.

Accessibility:

Some access arrangements can be supported in this qualification but these would be assessed on a student by student basis, but could include for example a reading pen, or small group/individual invigilation.

AQA Entry Level English (Entry 1, 2 or 3)

What is AQA Entry Level English?

Entry Level English enables students to become confident in their ability to read, understand and communicate with a familiar peer or adult. They will be able to use this knowledge to solve simple problems. Students complete 3 reading and writing assignments and two spoken language. Students can access this qualification at Silver Step (Entry 1 and 2) or Gold Step (Entry 3) the choice of level will be dependent on students’ attainment and confidence.

Content Overview

	Content
Spoken Language	The students learn to: Listen attentively and respond appropriately to others. Take part in discussions, conversations and group activities. Ask and answer questions to clarify understanding. Express opinions, ideas and preferences clearly. Give simple presentations or verbal instructions. Adapt their communication for different audiences and purposes. Use appropriate vocabulary, tone and non-verbal communication. Build confidence in social and functional communication.
Reading	The students learn to: Read words, sentences and increasingly complex texts accurately. Retrieve straightforward information from a text. Identify the main idea and important details. Make simple inferences using evidence from the text. Understand vocabulary in context. Compare information across texts (higher Entry Levels). Read for different purposes, including information, instruction and enjoyment. Navigate everyday texts such as forms, timetables, emails, signs and leaflets.
Writing	The students learn to: Write simple words, sentences and extended pieces. Plan and organise their ideas logically. Write for different audiences and purposes. Use punctuation accurately, including capital letters, full stops, commas and question marks as appropriate. Spell familiar and subject-specific vocabulary correctly. Use grammar accurately, including appropriate sentence structures. Complete everyday writing tasks such as forms, emails, letters and messages. Edit and improve their own work.

Outcomes:

Entry 1	Communicates using simple language and reads and writes short, familiar texts.
Entry 2	Develops greater independence, understanding longer texts and writing with increasing accuracy.
Entry 3	Reads, discusses and writes more detailed texts, making simple inferences and adapting communication for different purposes in preparation for Level 1 Functional Skills or GCSE pathways.

Next Steps:

Students with Entry Level English will often progress to further English study at higher Entry level or Level 1, 2 or GCSE.

Accessibility:

NCFE Functional Skills English (Level 1 and Level 2)

What is Functional Skills English?

Functional Skills English is designed to equip a student with the English knowledge needed for everyday life. Students will learn to use English confidently and effectively in everyday life, work, study and different real-world situations. Students can access this course at Level 1 or Level 2 and the choice of level will be dependent on students’ English attainment and confidence. Students will need to complete a spoken language task consisting of a group conversation and a presentation, students will also sit a reading and writing paper, these can be completed on paper or a computer.

Content Overview

	Content
Spoken Language	Listen carefully and respond appropriately in discussions. Communicate information, ideas and opinions clearly. Take part in formal and informal discussions. Make relevant contributions to group conversations. Ask and answer questions to develop understanding. Present information to an audience in a clear and organised way. Adapt communication for different audiences, purposes and situations. Demonstrate active listening, turn-taking and respectful communication.
Reading	Read and understand a variety of functional and literary texts. Identify the main purpose and key points of a text. Retrieve relevant information from one or more sources. Understand explicit and implied meaning. Make inferences using evidence from the text. Recognise how writers use language and structure to achieve purpose. Compare ideas, viewpoints and information across different texts. Evaluate the effectiveness of texts for their intended audience and purpose.
Writing	Plan, organise and structure writing logically. Write for different audiences and purposes. Select appropriate vocabulary and tone. Use accurate spelling, punctuation and grammar. Construct a range of sentence types effectively. Produce clear and coherent paragraphs. Complete functional writing tasks such as emails, letters, reports, articles and forms. Review and edit their own work to improve clarity and accuracy.

Outcomes:

Level 1	Applies English independently in everyday life, work and education, interpreting information, communicating effectively and producing well-structured writing for a range of audiences.
Level 2	Demonstrates confident, critical and effective communication, analysing complex texts, evaluating viewpoints and producing accurate, purposeful writing suitable for employment, further education and everyday life.

Next Steps:

Students with Functional Skills English Level 1 will progress to studying Level 2 or GCSE English. Level 2 English is an access qualification, as it is a generally accepted as a qualification that allows access to further study at higher levels or employment.

Accessibility:

AQA Entry Level Science (Entry 1, 2 or 3)

What is AQA Entry Level Science?

Entry Level Science is a nationally recognised science qualification which enables students to demonstrate their scientific knowledge and skills. The student’s study six components each one consisting of a short test, which tests the students scientific knowledge and a teacher devised practical assessment, which tests a student’s ability to carry out a practical experiment.

Content Overview

	Content
Biology – The Human Body	Basic biology related to humans: how the body works; health; living things; basic life processes.
Biology – Environment, evolution and inheritance	Ecology, environment, relationships between organisms, basic ideas of inheritance, variation and environment.
Chemistry – Elements, mixtures and compounds	Materials and matter: elements, mixtures, compounds; properties of materials; simple chemical ideas.
Chemistry – Chemistry in our world	Everyday chemistry: chemical reactions, uses of materials, how chemistry affects the world around us.
Physics – Energy, forces and structure of matter	Basic physics concepts: energy, forces, matter; properties and behaviour of matter; simple physical phenomena.
Physics – Electricity, magnetism and waves	Fundamental physics: electricity, magnetism, basic wave concepts — how energy and forces operate in the real world.

Outcomes:

Entry 1	Students working at Entry 1 Science will learn to, recall basic scientific ideas, and be able to carry out scientific experiments safely and make scientific observations.
Entry 2	Students working at Entry 2 Science will learn to, recall basic scientific ideas and begin to relate to everyday scenarios. Students will be able to plan and carry out simple scientific experiments safely and make scientific observations and measurements.
Entry 3	Students working at Entry 3 Science will learn to, recall basic scientific ideas and relate to everyday scenarios. Students will be able to plan and carry out simple scientific experiments safely and make scientific observations and measurements. Draw tables and graphs as well as draw together a conclusion.

NCFE Digital Functional Skills (Entry 3, Level 1)

What is Digital Functional Skills?

Digital Functional Skills is a qualification focused on developing practical digital skills that learners need to confidently use digital technology in everyday life, education, and work. It is designed to equip learners with the ability to use digital tools and technologies effectively and safely in a range of real-world contexts. The assessment for this is conducted on a computer and consists of them answering a range of questions and completing a task.

Content Overview

	Content
Using Devices and Applications	Turning on devices, navigating operating systems, using software applications (word processing, spreadsheets, email).
Managing Digital Information	Creating, storing, and organising files and folders; searching for information online.
Online Communication and Collaboration	Using email, instant messaging, video calls, and social media responsibly.
Digital Safety and Security	Understanding privacy settings, recognizing online risks, protecting personal data, and using safe passwords.
Problem-Solving with Technology	Troubleshooting basic technical issues and using digital tools to complete tasks efficiently.

Outcomes:

Entry 3

Students working at Entry 3 will learn to find and retrieve information from a variety of sources, use a range of applications to present information and solve simple problems.

Level 1

Students working at Level 1 will learn to search, filter and sort digital information. Understand complex privacy issues such as privacy settings and malware

and retrieve information from a variety of sources, use a wider range of applications and be able to combine different digital tools to process information that can be used to present information.

Accessibility:

AQA Unit Awards

What are AQA Unit Awards?

AQA Unit Awards are a flexible, bite-sized way for learners to gain recognition for achieving small units of learning or skills. They’re designed to motivate and reward progress, especially for learners who might benefit from short, manageable steps rather than full qualifications all at once. They are:

Small, focused qualifications made up of individual units.
Each unit covers a specific skill, topic, or area of learning.
Units can be combined or taken separately depending on the learner’s needs.
Often used in vocational, skills-based, or personal development contexts.
Can be a stepping stone toward bigger qualifications like GCSEs, Functional Skills, or vocational certificates.

Arts Award

What are Arts Awards?

Arts Award is a nationally recognised qualification in the UK that celebrates young people’s creativity, arts skills, and personal development through engagement with the arts and cultural activities.

A creative qualification designed for young people aged 7 to 25.
Recognizes achievement in any art form—like music, dance, drama, visual arts, media, crafts, or writing.
Supports development of skills like leadership, communication, and project management through arts participation.
Provides a structured way to explore, create, and share art while gaining a qualification.

Duke of Edinburgh

What is Duke of Edinburgh?

A popular youth development programme that encourages young people (usually aged 14–24) to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and contribute to their communities. Students generally have an increased confidence, resilience and the ability to work in a team. This is widely recognised as evidence of achievement and development of leadership and teamwork skills by employers and colleges. Participants complete activities in four key areas:

Volunteering — Helping others or the community.

At Nexus this has included activities such as supporting students in other classes, running small PE clubs, supporting our Nexus Café or helping in a local charity shop.

Physical — Improving fitness through sports or physical activities.

At Nexus this has included activities such as going to the gym, participating in a weekly running club, manged by other staff and students or participating in athletics training at the Paddock Wood Athletics club.

Skills — Learning or developing a new skill or hobby.

At Nexus this has included activities such as, food technology, travel training or developing money management skills.

Expedition — Planning, training for, and completing a challenging journey outdoors (e.g. hiking or camping).

At Nexus we have run expeditions in the Ashdown Forest and the South Downs National Park, each expedition is deigned to be a challenge to the students participating.

Gold level also requires a residential project — a shared activity or course away from home.

Our most recent residential involved five days sailing, the students learnt to support each other and complete 75 miles of sailing.

At Nexus we are able to offer the full range of Duke of Edinburgh Awards; Bronze, Silver and Gold. We offer the students the opportunity to start these awards in Key Stage 4. Each award is aimed to be completed within a year but for some students it could take longer.