The Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA) has mapped Microsoft Office Specialist and IC3 qualifications into its PC Passport scheme to provide industry strength qualifications to students in Scotland. “This partnership brings a world-first to the education of students in Scotland by creating the opportunity to add industry certifications to their C.V.” according to Joe Wilson, Business Manager for the SQA. PC Passport is a National Qualification and is part of the SCQF framework. It is a Scottish Progression Award (SPA) and is viewed as a stepping stone to employment. It is one of the first UK qualifications to be based on the IT User Skills Framework created by the E-skills Sector Skills Council. Wilson continued: “The Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3) is the ideal starting point for learning about the internet and computer basics.

IC3 is the worlds only digital literacy qualification and was developed over a two year period and included 270 subject matter experts in 19 countries and is endorsed by CompTIA, the world’s largest independent certification body. “It is the ideal course to begin learning about how to use computers, how to utilise the main applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint as well as gaining an understanding about how the internet operates and impacts upon society.” SQA chose to incorporate IC3 into its PC Passport scheme as it demonstrates to potential employers that candidates have the necessary computing knowledge and skills to thrive in today’s digital economy. Wilson continued: “IC3 is also a global qualification that is recognised by Microsoft as the best foundation to becoming Microsoft Office Specialist certified. Over 90% of schools, colleges, universities and academic institutions around the world use Microsoft Office.

The Microsoft Office Specialist Certificate demonstrates competency and understanding of the Microsoft Office package and is Microsoft’s only official desktop certification programme.”

The process for students, either in educational institutions or seeking employment, is very straightforward according to Malcolm Knox, Associate Director for Prodigy Scotland, the Manager of the Microsoft IT Academy Programme and Solution Provier for IC3 and Microsoft Office Specialist in Scotland. “Applicants present their existing certification while registering for the PC Passport and these are credited according to the level achieved,” says Knox. “Employers can also be assured that these qualifications meet the highest level. The tests are delivered on computers over the Internet and are tamper proof. Candidates must produce photograph ID at the test and confirmation of the final examination is sent by post from the US. Both the quality of the standards and the rigorous invigilation delivers proof of proficiency for both the holder of the qualification and the employer alike.” Ends About Prodigy Prodigy is the Master Distributor of IC³ in Ireland and Scotland as well as the Microsoft Office Specialist examinations About IC³ . Additional information on the Microsoft Office Specialist Certification Program can be found at www.prodigyscotland.co.uk