It is important to recognise and support the achievements of all children and young people.  This can help to develop their confidence and motivation for learning.  It can also help them to reflect on their own learning and plan appropriate next steps.

Range of achievement

Many young people get formal qualifications at school. However learning also takes place outside the classroom, at home and in the wider community.

Achievement covers learning in other areas of the life of the school, and in the variety of activities children and young people are involved in, for example:

• hobbies and interests, such as participating in a sport
• youth work
• volunteering
• caring for a relative
• activities they undertake in the life of the school, such as Eco Schools or Buddying
• recognised awards or programmes, such as the Duke of Edinburgh's Award or John Muir Award.

Through these activities, they develop important skills for learning, skills for life and skills for work that can be of real value to them as they grow up.

We need to recognise the full range of achievements and help our children and young people understand the skills they have. It is important that they are able to demonstrate and describe these skills to others, and build on these skills. It is important that you encourage your child to let their school know about their achievements beyond the classroom.

Parents' meetings are good opportunities for you to share information with your child’s teacher(s) about their achievements outside school.

Your child's achievements should also go into their P7, S3 and senior phase profiles.

Related links

The Awards Network develops a Scottish framework for valuing, recognising and accrediting young people’s achievements through non-formal education.

Download Amazing Things 5: a guide to the youth awards in Scotland.

The achievement in Forth Valley and West Lothian report contains research conducted on how achievement is recognised and recorded.