The Introduction to Work Place Skills (IWPS) qualification is tailored to individual needs, which enables people to develop their core skills and begin to improve their competence in a workplace environment.  

The award aligns with the strategic drivers of The Scottish Government, where employability skills have been identified as an important focus for skills development of individuals. 

Although thousands of people have accessed the Certificate of Work Readiness (CWR) qualification and have used it to help them progress into the world of work, SDS identified that some people need an additional level of support. That’s where the Introduction to Work Place Skills qualification can help.

Who is it for?

IWPS is a nationally recognised qualification, which is owned by SDS and certificated by SQA. It is aimed at:

  • Individuals who have average or below average grades at National 3 or 4
  • Individuals who have no qualifications or have been out of education and employment for some time
  • Individuals who have no or limited, clear ideas about any particular vocational route and require support in core skills and employability

How can it help?

IWPS offers support for individuals that require a ‘stepping stone’ approach before they can prove to employers that they are ready for sustained employment.

Those undergoing the IWPS qualification will gain support from a Learning Provider to help develop their core skills and employability prospects through simulated workshops, supported work environments and real work placements. The individual will participate in a minimum of 150 hours work experience; 1-2 days per week.

The qualification can be funded through a variety of local or national programmes, including the SDS Employability Fund at Stage 2.

Next Steps

On completion of the IWPS qualification, individuals will be able to progress on to higher level qualifications, such as the CWR, or further training, education or employment.

Want to know more?

Learning and training providers interested in taking part should visit our training provider area.

If you require further information on the IWPS qualification you can contact the SDS Partnership team. 

Visit our Employability Skills page for more information on the support we provide for individuals to improve their work-based and employability skills.