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25 Aug 2026

Your learning

Revised Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ’s) in Social Services

We are pleased to confirm that Qualifications Scotland Accreditation have approved the revised SVQ’s in Social Services and Healthcare and Children and Young People at SCQF levels 6, 7 and 9. The changes reflect updated National Occupational Standards (NOS) and the knowledge and skills required for the regulated workforce.

We would like to thank the Qualification Design Team and key stakeholders for their involvement in the co-design of these qualifications.

What has changed?

The revised qualifications:

  • include a new structure and mandatory NOS
  • address identified gaps in knowledge and skills
  • contain simplified terminology
  • reduce performance criteria and knowledge requirements
  • streamline relevant NOS across services and age groups
  • increase the flexibility of qualifications across services
  • are supported by a revised assessment strategy and NOS glossary.

When will the qualifications be available?

Qualifications Scotland is preparing the qualifications for learning provider delivery and Skills Development Scotland is developing the apprenticeships frameworks at SCQF 6,7,9. Information on Foundation Apprenticeships will follow. Both organisations are working towards approval from Qualifications Scotland Accreditation and we expect the revised qualifications to be available from March 2027.

You will find further details about these changes and support for the sector here.

Contact information

Alison Forbes
Communications Assistant
Scottish Social Services Council
media@sssc.uk.com