New qualifications aim to give students core digital skills

Ofqual has launched a second consultation on its remaining policy proposals and draft Conditions, Requirements and Guidance for new Digital Functional Skills qualifications today.

The qualifications are being introduced by the Department for Education (DfE) and will be designed to teach core digital skills needed for life and work. Ofqual will regulate these new qualifications.

Ofqual consulted on our initial policy proposals for the regulation of these qualifications, at the same time as the DfE consulted on the draft subject content. We are publishing the outcomes of that consultation today. The DfE has now published the final subject content.

The new qualifications will go through an evaluation process before being made available to schools, colleges and training providers to deliver, to ensure they are valid and fit for purpose.

As set out by the DfE, they will sit alongside Essential Digital Skills Qualifications, as part of the government’s adult digital offer.

The qualifications will be first taught in August 2023 and Ofqual will work with awarding organisations and other stakeholders to ensure a smooth introduction.

You can share your views on our proposals by completing the consultation survey.