Specialist Schools

The INGOT qualifications draw upon nearly 20 years experience in specialist schools curriculum and management development. For specialist schools in Mathematics and Computing and Business and Enterprise they have specific relevance but they are also of value in all specialist schools as ICT leadership and furthering vocational education and enterprise are common themes for all. INGOTs were developed in leading Specialist Schools in consultation with employers to

• Support cross phase transition for partner primary schools
• Provide quantifiable learning outcomes for community plans
• Provide relevant qualifications for hard to reach groups
• Provide motivation in Key Stage 3 (ages 11-14) and earlier accreditation.
• Reduce administration while increasing motivation
• Provide practical support for personalised learning and technological self-sufficiency
• Provide leadership in raising attainment through participative learning
• Provide leadership in reducing the cost of digital tools and content
• Provide leadership in progression to Level 2 (Leitch Report)
• Enhance opportunities in the international dimension
• Strengthen and enhance citizenship
• Provide a practical strategy for digital inclusion
• Use assessment as an integral part of the learning process

Despite these benefits the INGOTS can also reduce workloads. For example, in Key Stage 3 passing a Silver INGOT is equivalent to National Curriculum Level 5, pass with merit Level 6 and pass with distinction Level 7. This means that students achieving recognised vocational qualifications through the INGOTs on-line markbook have sound evidence for teacher assessment within the statutory curriculum without having to compile complex portfolios of evidence. It is more efficient to have one project that satisfies many of the specialist school criteria than many projects.